Console launches support group for young Galwegians

Ciarán Austin, Mary Whyte-Knaack, Margaret Tierney Smith and Paul Kelly, CEO, Console pictured at the launch of the Console Support Group for young adults. Photo Martina Regan

By Kernan Andrews

A unique support group for younger adults affected by suicide has been launched in Galway by national suicide prevention and bereavement charity Console.

The Young Adults Support Group will come into being at the end of March. It will be based in the Console Centre in Renmore and be open to anyone aged between 18 and 30. Facilitated by professional Console counsellors, attendees will share a safe path through their loss and build on their own levels of resilience and health.

“Suicide has become a difficult and challenging issue for younger people in the west,” said Console founder and CEO Paul Kelly. “We are confident that Galway will be the first link in what will prove to be a nationwide support network for young adults, bringing healing to those who have been so harshly touched by loss.”

Mr Kelly said the rate of suicide among younger men “is worrying” and that it is “crucial” to have “safe, accessible and therapeutic ways to support family members, friends and colleagues”.

“The aim is to minimise the levels of distress caused and ultimately reduce the risk of suicide contagion or clusters,” he said. “Young adults find it easier to talk openly among their peers. Through addressing their issues in such an environment, they find an easier pathway to dealing with their bereavement.”

Those interested in attending the group, or finding out more information, can contact Console House in Galway on 091 - 769942. Console also offers free counselling services and 24-hour helpline (1800 201 890). See also www.console.ie