Derry Sinn Fein Sinn Féin -- Building an Ireland of Equals

Launch of Mental Health awareness book in Derry

Published: 8 March, 2010

Sinn Féin MLA Martina Anderson speaking at the launch of a book in Derry to help raise awareness of the importance of good mental health

Martina Anderson said .

The aim of this booklet is firstly to raise awareness of this issue and to provide people in Derry with accurate information relating to services available locally. This is an ever-increasing issue in Ireland ; with recent research suggesting that one in four adults will suffer from some form of poor mental health in their lifetime.

We hope this booklet will play some small part in raising awareness in Derry and directing those who need help to the appropriate support services. It is also an issue which is very close to my heart as I care for my mother who suffers from Alzheimers. I know about the hurt, pain and trauma that goes with caring for a loved one in that position. Nothing in the world can prepare you for that, so I want to offer my support and solidarity to anyone coping with mental health problems, or caring for someone with mental health problems.

I think that reality of living with this issue was brought home to us all through the stories which we heard today and which feature in the booklet. They were powerful and very moving accounts - real stories about the reality of life for two Derry families. Similarly, the DVD which was produced by Greater Shantallow community Arts was equally powerful. So thankyou to all those involved in producing it.

I would like to thank everyone involved in producing the booklet and making the day a reality. Say a particular thanks to all the contributors to the booklet, those who provided stalls today and Cúnamh, Dr Ann McCloskey and everyone that worked so hard to pull it together. Councillor Billy Page chaired today event - it's great to see him back after suffering from Ill Health over recent months .

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