On World Suicide Prevention Day, call for more state help

Image: Pieta 2023 Annual Report.

Today is World Suicide Prevention Day, and to mark it Pieta are calling on the government to provide increased funding and support in the area, writes Brian Byrne. Suicide is the leading cause of death among 15-34 year-olds in Ireland and suicide accounts for nearly three times the death toll on Ireland's roads.

Launching their 2023 Annual Report, the suicide and self-harm prevention charity noted that they responded to over 103,000 calls and texts last year from individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts, self-harm, or the loss of a loved one to suicide. 

The charity provided nearly 51,000 hours of professional intervention and bereavement counselling, supporting nearly 7,000 people in person and over 4,600 through remote counselling.

A new five-year plan from Pieta, Hope in Action, outlines the charity’s plans to enhance community engagement and develop targeted services for those at risk. CEO Stephanie Manahan says they are deeply grateful for the support from public donations, but that achieving long-term impact requires a substantial and sustained investment from the state. 

"On World Suicide Prevention Day, we urge the government to prioritise and invest in sustainable suicide and self-harm prevention services to ensure that every individual in need receives the support they deserve," she says.

A challenging fundraising environment in 2023 meant a reduced income of €14.3 million, including state funding of €2.3 million. Expenditure at €17.5 million was higher than the previous year, resulting in a higher €3.2 million deficit (2022: €1.9 million). 

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