14 NOVEMBER 2016
A meeting on the subject of “Mental Health in Farming & Learning to Cope” will take place in Kilriush Golf Club, Kilrush, Co Clare on Wednesday 16 November 2016, at 7.30pm. The meeting has been organised by an Garda Siochana, in particular Garda Sergeant Edel Burke of Kildysart Garda Station. Previous meetings on the subject of rural isolation and mental health in farming have attracted large crowds.
Guest speakers on the night will be:
Seamus Sherlock, ICSA Rural Development chairman – In his capacity as ICSA rural development chairman Mr Sherlock lobbies government on a wide range of issues affecting rural communities including: rural isolation, mental health in farming, farm debt and rural crime. Seamus will speak about his own journey through debt and depression and how he now helps other farmers in similar situations.
Speaking about the meeting, Mr Sherlock said “It is important for ICSA to be present to support this drive to highlight the concerns about mental health in farming. The closure of local shops, post offices, bank branches and Garda stations all have an impact and add to the sense of isolation felt in rural communities. We need to listen to farmers concerns and address these issues to keep our rural communities strong.”
Peter Gohery from Embrace will speak about his own personal experience of losing a leg in a farm accident and how he managed to get through the experience.
John O’Reilly, a Combination Therapist, will speak about how a traumatic history can affect your anxiety and depression levels, which he can alleviate by ‘servicing your mind’.
The event kicks off at 7.30pm and everyone is welcome to attend. Tea and refreshments will also be be served.
ENDS
