Donohue tragedy compelled us to act
The 2012 All-Ireland finalist passed away tragically in late October, just two days short of his 23rd birthday.
GPA chief executive Farrell paid tribute to the Kilbeacanty man at the GPA’s AGM last month.
Yesterday, Farrell said: “The death by suicide of Galway’s Niall Donohue has sharpened the focus on our challenge. We know we must redouble our efforts to make sure the young men in society struggling with distress are encouraged to engage with support, that we hear the call and recognise the signs of their distress.”
While depression is the number one issue for players utilising GPA services, nine players this year sought bereavement counselling, compared to five last year. After depression, gambling saw the biggest jump in cases, with 22 cases this year compared to seven in 2012.
Cathal McCarron’s recent difficulties as well as those publicised by Niall McNamee and Oisín McConville have highlighted how acute a condition gambling is among inter-county players.
Farrell said the festive period can be a trying one for players in difficulty. “We have published this short review of our Mental Health Programme firstly to highlight the increase in the level of engagement from county players with this service and secondly to draw attention to the availability of the service over Christmas, a period which can prove difficult for those in distress. We also want to indicate our intention to establish a specific campaign in 2014 aimed at encouraging players to engage with our mental health programme and services with a focus on changing the culture within our membership.”
The GPA review also revealed 23 to 25-year-olds make up the biggest percentage of their membership (inter-county players) with 28%, followed by 20 to 22-year-olds (26%).
The GPA’s 24-7 helpline can be reached at freephone 1800 201 346 in the Republic of Ireland and from Northern Ireland 0808 234 5183.
CONNECT WITH US TODAY
Be the first to know the latest news and updates
