National Office For Suicide Prevention's Annual Forum And Launch Of 2008 Annual Report, Ireland

Minister Moloney acknowledges the dedication of individuals and organisations committed to tackling suicide


Mr. John Moloney, T.D. Minister for Equality, Disability and Mental Health, today, Wednesday 2nd September 2009, launched the National Office for Suicide Prevention (NOSP)Annual Report 2008. The Minister was attending the NOSP's Annual Forum 'Suicide Prevention - Working Together' at the Royal Hospital, Kilmainham, Dublin.


The Forum showcased suicide prevention initiatives with over sixty organisations presenting projects and evaluations of their respective initiatives. The Minister said "The dedication of individuals and organisations throughout the country committed to tackling suicide is heartening". He added "I am delighted that the theme for the conference is 'Working Together' because a concerted effort is key to preventing the tragic loss of life by suicide. By working together we can make a difference and reduce the devastating effects suicide has on individuals and on communities".


NOSP's Annual Report for 2008 reports on progress on the implementation of Actions in 'Reach Out' - the National Strategy for Action on Suicide Prevention. Initiatives progressed in 2008 include the publication of a 'Report on Bereavement Services' and the subsequent development of guidelines for 'Developing a Quality Framework for Suicide Bereavement Services'; the establishment of a health/education interdepartmental group to develop a standardised approach to mental health work in schools; the commencement of a pilot study, developed in consultation with the Coroners Society of Ireland to address information about risk factors associated with suicide and also issues around support following death by suicide". The Minister welcomed the development of a number of technology based initiatives aimed at young people.


The Minster also acknowledged the strains many people may be experiencing for the first time in coping with a very difficult economic environment. He welcomed two very worthwhile initiatives launched recently which the Minister said "highlight the practical things we can do to protect our mental health during these tough economic times. The HSE produced an information booklet called "Suicide Prevention in the Workplace" which provides organisations and workplaces with practical guidance on how staff can respond to and support persons who are at risk of suicidal behaviour. In addition, information leaflets and wallet cards entitled 'Looking after your mental health during tough economic times' were produced and distributed widely. The resources outline information on the impact unemployment and financial difficulties can have on mental health and wellbeing, how people can look after their mental health, signs of common mental health problems and importantly, available support services".

Source
Department of Health & Children, Ireland