Cork's Lough lit up for ‘loved ones lost to suicide’

The Lough was lit up on Friday evening as volunteers from Cork charity Shine A Light: Suicide and Mental Health Awareness remembered lost loved ones.

As twilight fell, volunteers lit candles, lanterns, and torches against the gathering dark for a moment of remembrance.

Shine A Light volunteer and board member Mick Nugent told The Echo the evening’s event was intended as a moment of reflection and a chance to raise awareness of mental-health services.

“It was a lovely evening, with music, poetry, and a few words, as we lit up candles and lanterns in remembrance of loved ones lost to suicide, and to show solidarity and friendship with all who might be struggling,” Mr Nugent said.

“We had The High Hopes Choir singing, and we were joined by Lottie O’Driscoll Murray from Shanakiel, who is representing Ireland at the Junior Eurovision at the moment.

“We were delighted, as well, to be joined by the [Lord Mayor of Cork] councillor Fergal Dennehy, for what was a very special gathering.”

Shine A Light Suicide and Mental Health Awareness was founded on the northside in 2009, at a time when that part of the city was struggling to deal with a high number of suicides, and the group has since expanded its operations across the region.

The organisation provides counselling at low cost, through the Social and Health Education Project/Coiscéim Counselling service, and regularly runs SafeTalk and ASIST suicide awareness training in conjunction with the HSE.

Other services provided by the group include bereavement support groups in communities, and directing people to supports offered by other organisations, as well as the promotion of positive mental health in the community.

• Shine a Light Suicide and Mental Health Awareness can be contacted by private message on its Facebook page.
• Contact the Samaritans at any time, day or night, 365 days a year, free on 116 123, or email jo@samaritans.ie.
• Contact Pieta House free, day or night, all year, on 1800 247247, or text HELP to 51444.