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Demand for Pieta services grow as lockdowns continue

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INCREASED DEMAND: Martin O'Sullivan, Centre Manager and Lead Therapist with Pieta in Tralee, says calls for help have increased as the lockdowns go on.

By Michelle Crean

 

As the country continues to get to grips with COVID, one Kerry charity has seen an exponential increase in its services - however, they too had to pivot their traditional face-to-face crisis service.

The first lockdown saw Pieta - which offers a one-to-one therapeutic service to people who are in suicidal distress, those who engage in self-harm, and those bereaved by suicide - shift its client base to phone and video consultations overnight - the second lockdown brought an even bigger increase for help - but this tie around - lockdown three that has had the worst impact on peoples' mental health.

This week, Editor Michelle Crean spoke to Martin O'Sullivan, Centre Manager and Lead Therapist with Pieta based in Tralee about how it's impacting their services.

"Last March, pretty much overnight, straight away every client had to switch to phone and video therapy," Martin explained.

"80 percent of the work is phone and video consultations at the moment. There's a massive jump in the over 18s but also people in their 40s who are seeking help."

While phone and video is an option for clients, Martin said that the seven therapists at the centre in Tralee are available for in-person counselling face to face in a Covid-safe environment and that those who have an appointment can travel past their 5k if necessary.

"Kerry has always been a busy centre but it has increased: during the first lockdown it was up 20 percent on last year. The second lockdown demand for services was higher, and this third lockdown it's higher again. It's the first time in history so many things have shut down. At first it was a novelty being at home, the sun was shining and people had jobs to do. As it goes on all of a sudden people are finding themselves at home with the kids all day, people who were out of work in the beginning may still be out of work, kids are missing their friends and people are stuck in a bubble and miss connecting with theirs. Then there's the people who have the anxiety of catching COVID; there is a huge fear there especially the new second strand."

He added that Pieta is there to help, people just have to reach out and seek it.

There's a 24 hour helpline which can be accessed by calling 1800 247 247 or text HELP to 51444.

All services are provided free of charge and no referral is needed.

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Deenagh Lodge to host Alzheimer’s Memory Walk

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Killarney National Park will serve as the venue for this year’s Kerry Alzheimer’s Memory Walk on Sunday, September 20.

Participants will gather at the Deenagh Lodge ahead of an 11.00am start to complete a 5km scenic route through the park.

The event takes place on the eve of World Alzheimer’s Day as part of a nationwide series of walks supported by Aviva.


Now in its seventh year, the initiative raises vital funds for The Alzheimer Society of Ireland to support local dementia services, including daycare centres, family carer training, social clubs, dementia cafés, and the national helpline.

Last year, nearly 3,000 walkers across Ireland raised over €240,000 for the cause.


The Kerry walk will be led by local champions Kathriona Sheehan, Niamh Murphy, Lynda Phillips, and Melissa Molyneaux, who are walking in support of all those living with dementia.
“We are proud to lead our annual Alzheimer’s Memory Walk supported by Aviva to help fund local dementia services in Kerry,” they said. “The event is about community and helping spread awareness by walking together to raise vital funds for care, support, and hope for the days ahead. Join us in Killarney on Sunday, 20th September to show your support.”


With over 40 walks scheduled across Ireland, members of the public can walk in memory of a loved one or to show solidarity. Further details and registration are available at memorywalk.ie.

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Gary Moynihan wins racecourse style title

Style reigned supreme at Killarney Racecourse as local resident Gary Moynihan and Offaly’s Sylwia Novak captured the top honours at the Canella Lane Best Dressed Day. Moynihan, a local neuromuscular […]

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Style reigned supreme at Killarney Racecourse as local resident Gary Moynihan and Offaly’s Sylwia Novak captured the top honours at the Canella Lane Best Dressed Day.

Moynihan, a local neuromuscular therapist, claimed Best Dressed Gentleman in a made-to-measure six-button burgundy double-breasted suit with a navy check from Saville Menswear in Cork. He completed the winning look with a shirt and paisley tie from Simply Suits Killarney and brown derby shoes from Pavers at the Killarney Outlet Centre.
Best Dressed Lady was awarded to Novak, a hospital personal assistant from Tullamore, who wore a red polka-dot ensemble and custom hat designed by milliner Rita Daly, featuring sustainable jewellery made from recycled plastic.
Canella Lane owner Ciana Aspell praised the high standard of fashion on the day, while Killarney Racecourse Manager Karl McCay thanked the sponsors and racegoers for their support.
With the summer season now wrapped up, the team at Killarney Racecourse is gearing up for the October Festival on October 4 and 5, featuring its first-ever Student Raceday with SPIN South West on the Monday. Early ticket booking is advised.

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