
Share
18th January 2016
02:12pm GMT

I also have some suggestions that are more pertinent to our specific case, and any other family who have been going through something similar.
How can people help and get involved?
People can show solidarity and speak out. The amount of people who have gotten in touch with us to say that they are or have been in a similar situation has been overwhelming.
We would encourage as many people as possible to come and support us, share their stories of mental health difficulties that they've suffered, and ensure that they speak to every politician who comes to their doors during the election.
What should people bring or wear?
If people have candles, please do bring them. We will also provide some. Wear a coat, it will most likely be cold. We will make sure that it doesn't go on for too long, so if people could be there at 7pm sharp outside Government buildings that would be great.
We will distribute smiling face masks and we will encourage everyone to wear them. When speaking about the event online, we would encourage everyone to use the hashtag #AnyonesBrother.
The masks represent how we as a society have quite a long way to come in terms of defeating the stigma around mental health, and how we often put on a front or mask our problems.
How are you and Cat (Caoilte's sister)?
Not great. It all feels very surreal. The past year has been hell.
It's only now that we're beginning to be able to look back on it and see how extreme it all was. Our immediate concerns are for Cat's younger teenage brother, and for any other family going through anything similar.
Are there more actions planned for 2016 in memory of Caoilte?
In time, I'm sure we will plan more. The election is the main thing. We need legislative change.
We are in talks with Mental Health Reform and Dual Diagnosis Ireland about what we can do in Caoilte's name.Explore more on these topics: