Expressing hope and understanding with Pieta House Darkness into Light

This morning, the annual Pieta House Darkness Into Light event will, or has if you’ve lingered abed, involve something around 200,000 people at 150 venues around the world. 

The event is an expression of solidarity and hope intended to reach those trapped by depression and those who feel so distressed that they might consider suicide as a rational option.

The 200,000 figure is a significant increase from last year’s 130,000 and this growth represents a very real expression of the deepening understanding of how very difficult it is for those who suffer from depression to overcome it without the help of others.

Though depression is an affliction that can crush an individual, and even though it cannot be overcome without that individual’s courage and commitment, it can be beaten in a supportive environment.

All sections of society face this challenge, as the Association of Catholic Priests has heard — at least 10 priests have committed suicide over the last decade.

Central Statistic Office data shows sharp differences in the suicide rate around the country. The CSO shows that 451 suicides were recorded across Ireland in 2015 — a fall from the 459 recorded in 2014, leaving the suicide rate per 100,00 of population down from 10 to 9.7.

For far too long, depression and suicide were not discussed in this society. Today’s events show how far we have come and that help is available for those who might seek it.