A Kinvara based organisation which promotes positive mental health and suicide prevention will be launched on Sunday in the village. Everyone over the age of 14 is welcome to attend.
Kinvara Alive was formed in December 2016 by volunteers in response to wellbeing and mental health issues in the area. Its vision is to work with the local community to raise awareness of these matters.
The launch, which will take place at the community centre from 3pm to 6pm, will be supported by the acclaimed hurlers Conor Whelan and Colm Callanan.
A number of organisations will have information stands at the event, including the Samaritans, Pieta House, Jigsaw, Aware, the Gardai, the HSE, IFA, Anam Cara, Money Advice Budgeting Service (MABS ), and Galway East Life Support (GELS ) will be present at the launch. Each stand will have professionals on hand to answer questions and provide information on how people can best support their families, friends, neighbours or colleagues when they are faced with challenging issues.
Guest speakers will address the event from 3pm to 4.30pm. Tea and coffee will be available on the day and there will be an opportunity to speak one-to-one with professionals.
A spokesperson for the organisers says the launch aims to increase people’s understanding of wellbeing, learn about suicide prevention and become aware of the local supports available.
“It is important to become aware that there are things we can do, no matter how small, to protect our own mental health and support the people we care about.
“We are all part of communities which link us to friends, family, colleagues and neighbours. A sense of community is very important for maintaining our mental health and helps foster a supportive network for everyone, especially for those going through tough times. We all have a responsibility to actively listen, to support and to empower those who become vulnerable in our communities at different times in their lives.”
