Community approach to depression and suicide

A well-known Clare GP has called for a community approach to tackle the growing problem of depression and suicide.
Acknowledging that a lot of great work is being carried out by community and voluntary groups, Dr Billy O’Connell pointed out there is no proper structure in place to monitor what is actually happening to ensure services are not becoming fragmented.
The Miltown Malbay-based GP stressed there is also a need for voluntary groups to improve their interaction with each other for the benefit of local communities.
Dr O’Connell said a group is hoping to come up with ways to get people to talk about depression and help those bereaved or affected by suicide to access the relevant support groups.
He expressed concern about people in the 18 to 30-year-old bracket who feel left behind and isolated following the departure of friends and family as a result of emigration.
In a lot of cases, he has found their quality of life has deteriorated and, apart from the GAA, there are not enough activities in rural areas for those who are not interested in sports-related activities.
Stating a lot of depression is going undetected or underreported, he said current levels of mental illness and depression are only the “tip of the iceberg”.
“Even though there are screening methods to diagnose those who are depressed, a lot of people are not aware they are actually depressed.
“When a suicide happens, it is extremely difficult for the affected family. It is not a question of blame. We need a community approach to try and deal with this problem. Irish people find it difficult to discuss these sensitive subjects and we need to address this.
His comments come in the lead-up to another seminar on depression, anxiety and suicide, which will be held in the Old Ground Hotel, Ennis next Tuesday at 7.30pm.
Guest speakers include Dr O’Connell; Minister of State with responsibility for Mental Health, Deputy Kathleen Lynch; HSE psychiatrist, Dr Mairéad McGovern and Liam Minogue of the Community Reconnect and Recovery Network.
Ally Carr, from North Clare, who initiated the first forum last December, said, “Our goal is to eradicate the stigma which, quite sadly, is still prevalent with mental illness.
“We as citizens must address this epidemic.  We must empower ourselves to deal with this illness.  Merely referring to the medical profession alone in secrecy will not make this problem go away.  We must show solidarity and acceptance to those suffering in our community,” she said.
People attending the event described it as an open and honest discussion about depression, anxiety and suicide.