Mental Health needs to be a priority for politician’s seeking election to the next Dáil, a message shown strongly at Leinster House on Thursday evening.
A candlelit vigil has been held following the death of Caoilte O Broin in January, and people showed up in their hundreds to share the message that cases such as Caoilte’s need to be taken seriously by health authorities and the government.
https://twitter.com/seanearley/status/697861372139433984
Caoilte’s sister Cat said before tonight’s vigil, “Because my brother abused alcohol to help him cope with the pain of his mental health difficulties, he had what health care professionals call a ‘dual diagnosis’.
“This meant that he could not access vital services – and that our family was in constant danger.
“We went public with our story on JOE in December, but Caoilte never got the help he needed and died of his mental illness on January 2 of this year.”
Great to see such support here for #AnyonesBrother. Let's hope this sends a message for what's really needed for 🇮🇪 pic.twitter.com/ad89q61nVF
— Keith McConnon (@KeithMcCo) February 11, 2016
“This vigil is not only for Caoilte, and the silence isn’t only in remembrance,” Cat continued.
“We will stand in solidarity with everyone who suffers with ill mental health in Ireland, and our silence will represent those families who are denied a voice when seeking help for their loved ones, as we were.
“Since our story broke, we have been contacted by countless others who are being let down by our structures and suffering as a result of the state of mental health services in this country.”
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