HUGG, Ireland's national suicide bereavement charity, is raising awareness of suicide bereavement and the support services available for people who have been impacted by suicide loss.
The event is taking place in the Hotel Kilmore, this Saturday from 1-4pm. Chloe Heaslip from Cavan lost her 18-year-old brother Eden to suicide back in 2021. Speaking to Shannonside Northern Sound in relation to this weekend's event, Chloe believes that talking and being in the company of others who understand your grief can help.
With a rise in the number of suicides among young people across Cavan and Monaghan, Chloe says this event will help those who have been bereaved to open up and talk.
She added that this event can also help people turn their grief into something positive by helping others, through the various discussions and information outlets that will be available on the day.
"Everyone in the room has been somewhat affected by suicide, whether they know somebody, it's their family, friend or someone in the community and we're all there to support and guide each other. There's no judgement. It's all about having a cup of tea or coffee with a refreshment, while having a chat with people who can help and support you."
In relation to Saturday's event, psychotherapist Una Holstead, will discuss the impact of suicide grief, highlighting ways families and communities can support young people to grieve and cope with their loss, in addition to this a HUGG Cavan support group member will share their lived experience of suicide loss and what has helped them along their grief journey.
Doors open at 1pm with speakers from 1.30pm and Chloe us encouraging anyone who has been affected or bereaved by suicide, either in a personal or professional capacity to join them, regardless of when your loss occurred. Chloe added that HUGG staff and volunteers will be on hand to provide information on what suicide bereavement supports are available and local support services will be present on the day.
HUGG provides information, signposting, resources, and suicide bereavement support groups nationwide. Anyone over 18 who has been bereaved or affected by suicide can get information and support by visiting HUGG.ie or by calling 01 513 4048.
