Three quarters of Ireland’s suicide victims are male. This startling statistic has prompted Cycle Against Suicide, a national suicide prevention charity, to organise a series of cycles for World Suicide Prevention Day, September 10th, with friends, families, schools, clubs and organisations taking part.
They are fighting stigmas around masculinity and mental health and with these events they are spreading the message to men of all ages that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
“Three hundred men died by suicide in Ireland during 2019” The CEO of Cycle Against Suicide, Caroline Lafferty, said. “Better mental health literacy can prevent deaths, helping Irish men express their feelings and seek support.
“Sadly, the stigma of mental health starts early — many young Irish men don’t seek help because of worries about social exclusion, self-image or perceived masculine responsibilities, studies show.
“Middle-aged men are at highest risk of suicide in Ireland, while this country has the 4th highest suicide rate in Europe for males aged 15–24 years old. A rising population of older men living alone are also at risk. Let’s fight mental health stigma to save men’s lives.”
There are several ways to support this cause either by taking part in organised events such as a Coast to Coast Dublin to Galway cycle. https://www.cycleagainstsuicide.com/event/coast-to-coast/
Fitter and more intrepid cyclists could also opt for a thrilling 750 km challenge in Portugal, Portugal end-to-end Alternatively you can organise your own local event, or make a direct donation.
Taking exercise, such as cycling, is one of the most effective ways to treat depression, the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland has found. Cycle Against Suicide’s work is helping people across Ireland to support and enhance their mental health.
Further details are available at: www.cycleagainstsuicide.com
