This has been an extremely difficult year and there has been a huge rise in the number of deaths by suicide in recent months throughout Cavan and Monaghan, with 21 instance in total since the beginning of March. This has had a devastating impact on families, communities and GAA clubs across the region.

Today and on an ongoing basis, Cavan and Monaghan GAA are jointly supporting the Green Ribbon campaign to end Mental Health Stigma and to encourage anyone who is struggling to cope to reach out to others for help. Both counties are also actively engaging with the HSE in Cavan-Monaghan to identify and to advertise the critical support services that are available to individuals and to families.

This weekend, as we anticipate the renewal of footballing rivalries, representatives of the two counties are also coming together to promote these mental health messages and are calling on all clubs to promote and to publicise this campaign at local level

End Mental Health Stigma – See Change Green Ribbon campaign

Each year See Change roll out a month long national Green Ribbon Campaign to encourage people in Ireland to End Mental Health Stigma.

The Green Ribbon campaign aims to get as many people as possible talking about mental health to help end stigma and discrimination. By wearing the Green Ribbon – an international symbol for mental health awareness- you show you are committed to influencing positive change. You don’t need to be an expert to start talking about mental health or have all the answers. Sometimes the most helpful thing you can do is to let someone know you are there for them and simply listen . Let people know you are open to having a conversation by wearing the green ribbon .

Important Support Services for Adults and Young People

Visit yourmentalhealth.ief or information and signposting on all mental health supports and services that are available nationally & locally provided by the HSE & funded partners.  You can also call the Freephone YourMentalHealth Information Line to find supports and services 1800 111 888 (any time, day or night).