By Leah Doherty
When the Darkness into Light event took place on May 7th, 2022. At 4.15am, the people of Meath gathered at Fairyhouse as they started the sunrise walk for Pieta House. After a tough two years, the country took on Darkness into Light alongside their friends and family. Communities in Ireland came together again this year to take part in spreading awareness of self-harm and suicide.
Thousands of local residents set off on 5km walks starting at 4:15am From Fairyhouse to Oldcastle. This was for many supporters a way of remembering relatives and others close to them that lost their lives to suicide.
COVID-19 had a huge effect on everyone. The rate of suicide and depression has hugely increased in the past two years. 81% of Irish citizens report lower levels of social connectedness and 30% report worsening mental health since the start of the pandemic according to the Healthy Ireland survey 2021. On top of this Almost one third of young Irish women and one in five young Irish men are experiencing symptoms linked to depression according to research published by the State’s leading economic and social research body, the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI). The funds raised for Pieta House goes towards those who are suffering and in need of desperate help.
For every person who takes part in Darkness into Light, a message of hope is sent to someone who is suffering and feeling hopeless.
If you are suffering from mental health issues and need support, please call Pieta House at: Freephone 1800 247 247 or text HELP to 51444.
Meath South East News 