My tears dried but the pain remained

YOUR two-part feature on suicide (Irish Examiner, March 22/23) made for compelling reading.

The story of Darren Bolger’s suicide is heartrending. Unfortunately, his is by no means an isolated case.

During my post-primary years I had to change schools. This meant I was going from a place where I knew virtually everyone to a totally new environment where I had to endure terrible bullying.

It was a huge shock. I recall so many days crying — and even despairing of life — while walking home from school. The tears would have dried by the time I reached home, but the pain remained.

It is only now, 20 years later, that I can express freely the hurt that so paralysed me back then. Gradually, over time, some healing has taken place.

I repeated the Leaving Cert and, thankfully, that year turned out to be one of the best of my young life.

Bullying is nothing new, but it seems more widespread now. The suicide epidemic (especially if bullying is a root cause) must be subject to more research and funding.

As we learn more and create greater awareness, perhaps we will uncover many hidden factors behind this national tragedy.

Marcus FitzGerald

22 Casement View

Ardfert

Tralee

Co Kerry