Support in Fermanagh

Support in Fermanagh

Issued on behalf of Fermanagh Community Response Group (voluntary and community organisations in Fermanagh, the Public Health Agency, Western Health and Social Care Trust, PSNI, Western Education and Library Board and Fermanagh District Council).

In response to the recent number of tragic sudden deaths in Fermanagh, representatives from the Fermanagh Community Response Group would like to express their sadness and concern at the recent loss of life and to send their condolences to the families and friends of those who have recently been bereaved.

The Fermanagh Community Response Group has been communicating and meeting since 19 October in response to local concerns and has been active in ensuring that support services have been made available in the area. Current indications are that the recent deaths seem to be unrelated, however this, along with other aspects of the situation, is being closely monitored.

On behalf of the group, a representative from the West End Partnership said: “We all are aware of the sudden deaths that have recently occurred in the Fermanagh area, all of which represent a personal tragedy and deep loss to each family, friends and the community as a whole.

“I would like to reassure the local community that support services are in place and anyone who feels in distress or despair, should call Lifeline on 0808 808 8000, for confidential immediate help and follow-up with other support if necessary. They can also approach their local GP in complete confidence.

“I would like to encourage people, of all ages, to access the support services available and to look after themselves and each other.”

Young people

  • Fuel Centre, 2 Quay Lane, Enniskillen, BT 74 6AG. Tel: 028 6632 5559, email events@thefuelcentre.com, web: http://thefuelcentre.com
    • Drop-in or contact the Fuel Centre for information, advice and support on a range of issues effecting young people

Adults

  • Aisling Centre, 37 Darling Street Enniskillen, BT74 7DF. Email info@theaislingcentre.com Tel: 028 6632 5811
    • Drop-in or contact the Aisling Centre for confidential, non-judgmental, free counselling services.

Brendan Bonner, Head of Health and Social Wellbeing Improvement (West), Public Health Agency, added “We would also like to remind local people to take time out and remember a few simple ways to protect your mental wellbeing, which could make all the difference. These include:

  • Giving and accepting support – being available for others if they need support will encourage them to be there for you too.
  • Make time for yourself, family and friends – and talk to them about how you feel.
  • Get to know who you are, think about and try to do things that make you really happy; laugh regularly.
  • Cultivate and encourage optimism in yourself and others, try to avoid over thinking and comparisons with others – learn to balance and accept what you can and cannot change about yourself.
  • Exercise regularly, preferably with someone else.
  • Further information  at www.mindingyourhead.info

Brendan concluded: “I would also remind people of the dangers of consuming excess alcohol and drugs, particularly as Hallowe’en approaches, since we know the misuse of alcohol and drugs, including prescribed medication, can increase the risk of accidents and even sudden death.”

Some people may experience more troubled feelings at this time of the year, even thinking about suicide. It is very difficult to predict when someone is feeling so unwell but the following signs and risk factors could help identify that someone is thinking of suicide – the more warning signs and risk factors, the higher the possible risk:

  • a suicide attempt or act of self-harm;
  • expressing suicidal thoughts;
  • preoccupation with death;
  • depression;
  • becoming isolated;
  • alcohol and/or drug abuse;
  • sudden changes in mood or behaviour;
  • making ‘final’ arrangements, eg giving away possessions.

If you, or someone you know, is in distress or despair, call Lifeline on 0808 808 8000. This is a confidential service, where trained counsellors will listen and help immediately on the phone and follow-up with other support if necessary. The helpline is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also access the Lifeline website

Further information

Young people

  • Fuel Centre, 2 Quay Lane, Enniskillen, BT 74 6AG. Tel: 028 6632 5559, email events@thefuelcentre.com, web: http://thefuelcentre.com
    • Drop-in or contact the Fuel Centre for information, advice and support on a range of issues effecting young people

Adults

  • Aisling Centre, 37 Darling Street Enniskillen, BT74 7DF. Email info@theaislingcentre.com Tel: 028 6632 5811
    • Drop-in or contact the Aisling Centre for confidential, non-judgmental, free counselling services.

If you, or someone you know, is in distress or despair, call Lifeline on 0808 808 8000. This is a confidential service, where trained counsellors will listen and help immediately on the phone and follow-up with other support if necessary. The helpline is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also access the Lifeline website

Notes to the editor
  • For further media information, contact the PHA Communication Office on 028 9055 3663

 

  • Please include the lifeline number in your article (and any subsequent coverage on the subject of promoting mental health and suicide prevention):
     
    Call Lifeline: 0808 808 8000 if you need confidential support services and advice.  This is a free helpline service available 24/7.  You can also access the Lifeline website