Sligo Traveller Support Group to hold online mental health panel discussion this Wednesday

Sligo Traveller Support Group (STSG) will host an online mental health panel discussion this Wednesday, November 8, at 7.30pm live on their Facebook page. A number of guests will address a range of issues relating to mental health including tips for looking after you mental health, suicide prevention, as well as personal testimony from someone impacted by poor mental health. The event is being organised by Sligo Traveller Support Group as they feel that with the evenings  becoming darker and as we move closer to the Christmas period we are entering that can be a particularly stressful and worrying time for people. The two guest panellists who will speak on the night are Latisha McCrudden and Donal Gallagher.

Latisha is a 19 year old third level student studying law in Galway whose ambition is to become a solicitor. Latisha is involved with numerous organisations including Irish Traveller Movement , Mincéirs Whiden, , National Youth Assembly of Ireland, National Women's Council of Ireland, and Spunout . Latish has spoken about her own struggles with her mental and physical health and other issues. She strives to be a positive influence for others. She recently won a national Garda Youth award for Special Achievement and was also a keynote speaker at a regional mental conference in Sligo. Donal is a Resource Officer for Suicide Prevention and a Mental Health Nurse within Sligo Leitrim Mental Health Service. He has previously worked on other initiatives with members of the Traveller community.

Mental Health Worker with STSG Jamie Murphy said: “We would encourage as many people as possible to join us on Wednesday evening. For us its of particular importance with suicide rates approximately 8 times higher in the Traveller community when compared to the general population. However the issue of mental health is something that impacts members of all communities and we would ask people from all communities to watch if they can. We have two fantastic guests in Latisha and Donal who will each offer their own unique insights and experiences to the discussion. There will also be plenty of opportunity for people to ask questions on the night. A key message we would like to get out is that if you are struggling or concerned in any way about your own mental health or that of a friend or a loved one to please reach out for support. The best place to usually start is with your GP but the important thing is to reach out to someone you trust.”