This article is from page 18 of the 2013-01-29 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 18 JPG
THERE is immediate help for people with suicidal intentions, thoughts or people who may have attempted to take their own lives 24 hours a day, seven days a week in Clare.
According to the HSE this service is provided out of hours through the region’s accident and emergency service as a liaison mental health nurse liaises between the emergency service and the mental health serv ices.
Bernie Carroll, Resource Officer for Suicide Prevention, said the nurse is available from 4pm to 3am through A&E at the Mid Western Regional Hospital, Limerick.
In Ennis however as the A&E is no longer available 24 hours a day, the liaison nurse is available from 4pm until 8pm through the A&E department.
The nurse can then be contacted through the out of hours GP service – Shannondoc after 8pm.
Ms Carroll said that even outside of these hours people should present to the hospitals and the psychiatrist on call will see them.
The liaison nurse or psychiatrist will then assess the patient and the most appropriate course of action for the individual is taken.
Ms Carroll added that if anyone is worried about their mental health however, the best person to call is their local GP.
The GP will then treat the patient or refer him or her to the mental health services.
As well as seeking help through the GP or the accident and emergency services, there are direct counselling options – either privately or through voluntary organisations such as Pieta House, Life Suicide Prevention Helpline, Console, Living Links, Samaritans and Red Ribbon Project.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline number is 1-800-273-TALK (8255).