Pieta and Shane Carthy encourage people to take part in #HopeOverSilence this Christmas

Brought to you by Pieta

Christmas is often a time of celebration but for some, the festive season can be difficult.

For those who have been bereaved by suicide, Christmas can be a pretty challenging time. While some of us might be looking forward to celebrating the festive season with our loved ones, the Christmas period can feel quite isolating or lonely for those who have lost someone they love. That's why Pieta, the national suicide prevention charity, and Dublin footballer Shane Carthy, Pieta ambassador, are encouraging us all to take part in their #HopeOverSilence initiative this year, to help us all feel more connected this Christmas. At 7 pm on Thursday 25 November, Pieta are asking people all over Ireland to light a candle and place it on their window, as a symbol of hope for those who are struggling at the moment or for those who have lost someone they love to suicide. And instead of having a minute's silence, Pieta are encouraging us to use this time to call a friend, speak to a family member or a housemate, or join in on the #HopeOverSilence conversation on social media. Whether you use this moment to open up about your own mental health or to talk about a loved one you've lost, #HopeOverSilence is all about keeping the conversation going and spreading awareness around mental health. Pieta have revealed that in 2020, 20% of their overall clients for the year contacted the charity in December, showing just how difficult and lonely this time of year can be for some people. That's why, at this time of year, it's so important to shine a light on mental health and keep the conversation going.

Need to talk to somebody?

If you're struggling at the moment and want some extra support, Pieta provide 24/7 support for anyone who's suicidal, self-harming or bereaved. You can contact Pieta 24/7 via the Freephone crisis helpline on 1800 247 247, or you can text HELP to 51444 (standard message rates apply). You can visit www.pieta.ie for a full list of contact details. Pieta offers free counselling to those suffering from suicidal ideation and to people who are engaging in self-harm and offer a free Suicide Bereavement Counselling Service to those who have been bereaved by suicide. You can donate to Pieta HERE. Brought to you by Pieta