Talking can prevent suicide, says Cork county mayor who had crisis

Speaking about your difficulties or talking to someone in distress can save lives, the mayor of Cork County has said.

Independent councillor Declan Hurley, who was at rock bottom when he almost lost his dairy farm, during the 2013 fodder crisis, said he feels “proud and humbled” that his decision to speak out about his own difficulties saved lives.

“It was a very stressful and emotional time. It all got to a point where it got critical, in terms of mental health,” he said. “I spoke out to give other farmers a voice.