To mark World Mental Health Day members of Darkness Into Light Corkagh Park committee (adhering to current Covid-19 social-distancing guidelines) planted a beautiful cherry blossom tree in Rathcoole Community Centre. This ‘Tree of Hope’ is one of more than 100 that were planted in locations around the country by Darkness into Light committees. The cherry blossom tree flowers in May, which is the month that Darkness into Light traditionally takes place. The Tree of Hope planted by Tricia Kellet , Emer Higgins TD and Treasa Kelly is located just outside Rathcoole Community Centre. In a year that’s been full of challenges, unknowns, and worries this Tree of Hope symbolises a brighter future. Having had to cancel the event this year , the committee are very much hoping that the inaugural Corkagh Park Darkness Into Light will go ahead next year.
‘Mental Health for All – Greater Investment – Greater Access’ was the theme of World Mental Health Day 2020. According to Pieta, since the beginning of March, its crisis helpline has answered over 10,000 calls directly relating to suicide, self-harm, and suicide bereavement. To address the increased demand for its services, Pieta has launched a free video service for those unable to visit a Pieta Centre when in suicidal distress, engaging in self-harm, or bereaved by suicide.
If you or someone you know is in a crisis situation, please call Pieta’s 24-hour Freephone Crisis Helpline: 1800 247 247; or text HELP to 51444 (std msg rates apply). For more information see www.pieta.ie. You’re not alone, there is always hope.
Pictured: Tricia Kellett and Emer Higgins TD
