Clarke call for additional funding in mental health resources

Longford-Westmeath Sinn Féin TD Sorca Clarke has marked the beginning of September by calling for greater investment in suicide prevention services and meaningful action to improve access to mental health supports.

The Sinn Féin spokesperson on Mental Health was speaking at the start of Suicide Prevention and Awareness month, which, she said, "provides an important opportunity to talk openly about mental health, suicide, challenge stigma and remind people that they are not alone".

“Suicide has a devastating impact on individuals, families, friends and entire communities. Behind every number is a person whose loss is felt deeply by people who loved them.

“We cannot allow suicide prevention to become a conversation that happens for one month of the year. It must be a priority all year round.

“For too many people, mental health services are still something they encounter only when they are already in crisis. People face long waits for support, struggle to access services in their own community, and many people find themselves passed from one service to another without ever getting the help they truly need," Teachta Clarke said.

The Dáil representative said further investment in mental health resources would allow "access to counselling and psychological supports".

“That means investing in community and crisis services and ensuring that no one is left without support because they cannot afford it or because of where they live.

“We must also address the wider circumstances that can seriously affect people’s mental health. The housing crisis, poverty, isolation, addiction, insecurity and financial pressure can all have a profound impact on people and families.

“Suicide prevention requires more than warm words. It requires political leadership, sustained investment and a real commitment to ensuring that people can access support before they reach breaking point.

“This month, I want to make a particular appeal to anyone who is struggling: please do not suffer in silence. Reach out to someone you trust and seek support. There is no shame in asking for help.

“I also want to acknowledge the incredible work of families, community organisations, mental health professionals, frontline workers and suicide prevention groups who provide vital support every day. Their contribution is invaluable.

“This September, let us move beyond awareness and towards meaningful action. Let us commit not only to talking about suicide prevention, but to delivering the services and supports that people need.

"We owe it to those we have lost, to those who are struggling today, and to the families and communities who carry that loss every day," Teachta Clarke stated.