The suicide awareness and prevention charity SOSAD has a new campaign “Breaking the Silence over a Cuppa” with which they are encouraging people to chat about mental health over a cuppa during the month of June. Be it at home or in your work place to get people comfortable and break down the stigma around talking about mental health.
Individuals, community groups and organisations can register to host a tea / coffee break and receive a ‘SOSAD pack’ by emailing fundraiserlouth@sosadireland.ie
Since 2007, SOSAD has worked to raise awareness and help prevent suicide in Ireland. They have worked tirelessly to help those in need feel supported and know they are not alone on their journey.
SOSAD offers support and services for people who are struggling with suicidal ideation, self-harming, depression, bereavement, stress and anxiety. If you simply need to talk, they are ready to listen. You can message them, call them, or call into their office.
In the 2022 SOSAD provided 17,837 one on one counselling sessions which is up from the 2021 figure of 15,965. This number reflects one-to-one counselling only and does not include phone support, their messaging service, or any group work.
SOSAD General Manager, Carol Murphy, said: “Mental health is a pressing issue in Ireland, with high rates of suicide and mental illness affecting many individuals and communities.
“We need to break the stigma around our mental health. The Irish are great for solving their problems over a cuppa and a chat so please support us in this very simple but effective campaign.”
Coffee shops in Drogheda that have signed up to participate so far are: Courtyard Coffee Merchant’s Quay, The Coffee Box in Fair Green and Evalynn Coffee in the Bryanstown Centre.
