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Houses on Vicar Street in Kilkenny Google Maps

EU Commission assessing if demolition of Kilkenny ‘heritage house’ is in breach of EU directive

A local group has said that there is a medieval gable wall at one of the houses but the council said there is not yet sufficient evidence of this.

THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION has confirmed to the Independent MEP Nessa Childers that they are assessing the Irish authorities’ response to a formal complaint about the demolition of ‘heritage houses’ in Kilkenny.

A new road in Kilkenny City due to be built requires the demolition of the houses, but the EU Commission is investigating if it is in breach of an EU directive.

The EU directorate General for the Environment made a commitment earlier this month that it would investigate plans by Kilkenny County Council to demolish houses in the city’s Vicar Street.

The Irish authorities have now responded to the EU Direcotrate, for which they will decide to proceed further.

Demolition

The complaint stated that the proposed demolition of 20-22 Vicar Street,  to make way for a proposed Central Access Scheme, could be in breach of the EU Directive on Environmental Impact Assessments.

In an email to the MEP, a senior official in Brussels responsible for enforcement of environment law, Mr Paul Speight, said: “The Irish authorities replied to us on 25 October. We will now be assessing that reply and will inform you and the other complainants of our conclusions.”

Medieval remains

A local group has said that medieval remains – a gable wall and a shouldered chimney – at one of the 19th century houses should be protected by the council. However the former owner of the house told TheJournal.ie that the delay in the demolition of the house was “wasting taxpayers money”.

Childers welcomed the EU Commission’s response during a visit to Kilkenny city yesterday, when she visited the site of the proposed Central Access Road Scheme, together with Councillor Malcolm Noonan and Ms  Shirley O’Brien – who complained to the EU on behalf of local citizens – as well as a representative of An Taisce.

Taken seriously

Ms Childers said she was “delighted that the EU Commission is taking the complaint seriously. She said:

Kilkenny County Council and the Minister for the Environment, Phil Hogan, need to wake up and realise that this complaint is not going to be shrugged off.

The houses in Vicar Street are an important part of Kilkenny’s built heritage and Kilkenny County Council must comply fully with domestic and European law in relation to them.

Earlier this week, Kilkenny County Council’s archaeologists say that a site on Vicar Street contains no traces of a medieval minister’s house, but An Taisce disagreed, stating that there were a whole host reasons why the Central Access Scheme should not proceed.

Read: An Taisce rejects claims that Kilkenny home is not medieval site>

Read: Former owner of Kilkenny ‘heritage house’ says delay in demolition ‘wasting taxpayers’ money’>

Read: EU to investigate Kilkenny plans to demolish ‘heritage houses’ for new roadway>

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20 Comments
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    Mute Ciaran Behan
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    Dec 6th 2013, 2:49 PM

    Personally I think it’s a wonderful idea and would support it 100%.

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    Mute Aine Nibhern
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    Dec 7th 2013, 11:59 AM

    There would have to be some basic training involved. I know when I faced a dilemma recently there was one person that was saying all the wrong things and another that just said one sentence that snapped me out of what was upsetting me and sent me in the right direction. And even put me into the right frame of mind to face the event that I had to attend so that I got through it without any problem.

    There are some short training courses out there already on suicide intervention and prevention eg ASIST training. http://www.nosp.ie/html/training.html I just did my refresher course recently. And I also have another short training course coming up in mental health this month.

    I have intervened where someone was suicidal. It required time and listening skills. I am a trained Life Coach as well which gives me some training in correct listening. But when it comes to any serious issues there needs to be trained therapists involved as you can end up taking on other people’s trauma if you have not been trained in how to protect yourself. So the key would be to have some good places or helplines to send the person to eg http://www.1life.ie/ suicide help line.

    But there is a lot of misinformation that is spread to people about what may be wrong with a person eg the chemical imbalance theory has never been proven and the idea that “anti-depressants” rebalance neurotransmitters is a myth. Something I sadly learned through experience and well as through my research over the past 2 years.

    I have just finished “A Day called Hope” by Gareth O’Callaghan which chronicles his recovery from Depression. While I had to overlook some of the stuff written about “anti-depressants” and remembering that this book was written 10 years ago, Gareth gives a good insight into how he recovers. Through diet, exercise, talk therapy etc And the root cause of his major depression is also obvious. Sometimes it is these root causes that need to be addressed before we can move forward.

    [Never stop or change prescribed psychoactive drugs without talking to a good expert in the field, due to the dangers of withdrawal]

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    Mute 500lbs of Funk
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    Dec 6th 2013, 2:49 PM

    It’s a fantastic idea

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    Mute DigitalA
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    Dec 6th 2013, 2:52 PM

    Good idea.

    I’d probably end up talking to myself in the mirror.

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    Mute Norman Hunter
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    Dec 6th 2013, 3:13 PM

    Lost a friend to suicide last Sunday, so yes brilliant idea and will happily wear a pin.

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    Mute Dorothy T. Murphy
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    Dec 6th 2013, 9:37 PM

    sorry for your loss. SOSAD does free counseling to people affected by suicide if your near them. sosadireland.ie they’ve been very good to me

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    Mute pongodhall
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    Feb 11th 2015, 1:01 PM

    I am sorry Norman, and for his people , if there were any.

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    Mute laura murphy
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    Dec 6th 2013, 2:55 PM

    As someone who works in the mental health profession, I think this is a wonderful idea. It would offer a show of support to people who largely feel isolated.

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    Mute Getyercoat
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    Dec 6th 2013, 2:53 PM

    Yes I would. Been there, needed someone who could understand what was going on in my head.
    Great idea.

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    Mute Declan Mannix
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    Dec 6th 2013, 3:14 PM

    Great idea. Not for me though unfortunately as I have a tendency to interrupt and give advice before someone has had a chance to finish explaining a problem.

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    Mute Silent Majority
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    Dec 6th 2013, 3:50 PM

    And therein lies the reason this isn’t a particularly good idea. It is incredibly difficult to admit you have such issues, it took me almost 20 years to do so. That moment you make the admission is one of the vulnerable moments of your life, and what advice you are offered or what is said to you can literally make or break you. Unless everyone who wears these pins is also told to say precious little beyond “go to you doctor” and is able to reassure them there is no shame or embarrassment in talking to a doctor, then this idea could be counterproductive. Just because I am willing to talk to someone all about their mental health problems doesn’t necessarily mean that I should.

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    Mute Celia Murphy
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    Dec 6th 2013, 3:57 PM

    Great awareness Declan, now that you know you can work on it!

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    Mute Niamh Naughton Walsh
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    Dec 6th 2013, 4:17 PM

    See this is the problem. People are suffering for years in silence. Is it not better to open up to anyone, rather than suffering the burden in silence?

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    Mute Silent Majority
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    Dec 6th 2013, 4:25 PM

    Of course it is Niamh, but people open up either when they are ready to, when they feel they genuinely have to (can’t go on like this) or sometimes unfortunately, not at all. Seeing someone wearing a pin will not encourage people to open up about their problems – that will come from within and nowhere else. For anyone who is suffering in silence and can’t open up to anyone, they can open up to the Samaritans, or do so anonymously online. If we’re talking depression or something similar, you just want to disappear, when you’re out and about you are so nervous and self conscious – would someone in this state approach a stranger and unburden just because they saw a pin on a lapel? Getting people to admit they have problems is a big deal, don’t get me wrong. But it is still just the very first step, and a step they must make themselves.

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    Mute LPH
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    Dec 6th 2013, 4:33 PM

    Whether or not someone will open up is irrelevant in my opinion. To me, someone wearing the pin says “I’m aware that some suffer from mental health issues, it’s nothing to be ashamed of, I’m here if you need me”. Even that is a comfort.

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    Mute Niamh Smith
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    Dec 6th 2013, 4:59 PM

    You are basing your opinion on your experience which is perfectly normal. However, you can’t imagine that every single person who has mental health issues or even just personal worries feels exactly the same way as you do/did? Everyone is different and if it can help a small percentage of people to open up, then it’s a step forward.
    I think the willingness of someone to find a pin and wear it in the first place shows a certain caring and thoughtful nature and will (hopefully) encourage someone in need to look at that person as someone they can potentially go to if they need to.

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    Mute AICS (Steve Tracey)
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    Dec 6th 2013, 5:23 PM

    Silent,
    Your comments make perfect sense, I seriously doubt if anyone suffering will approach a stranger but if they knew of someone in their social group including work, perhaps it might encourage them to talk. I work with people who suffer from PTSD often that initial conversation encourages them to take the next step.
    People wearing the pin should be listeners not problem solvers who can direct sufferers to the experts and simply stay in contact.

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    Mute pongodhall
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    Feb 11th 2015, 1:02 PM

    That took courage to admit that to yourself and others.

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    Mute Emmet Power
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    Dec 6th 2013, 2:57 PM

    Proper order… these are difficult times for everyone. .we need to reach out to each other. .. Peace

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    Mute Kevin Gormley
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    Dec 6th 2013, 3:00 PM

    Wear a pin!!! I’d wear a power puff girls costume. Great initiative .

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    Mute Fergal McDonagh
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    Dec 6th 2013, 3:05 PM

    Great idea. Even if it only helps one person it’s well worth it.

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    Mute Matt Crosbie
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    Dec 6th 2013, 3:07 PM

    Absofeckinlutely

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    Mute AICS (Steve Tracey)
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    Dec 6th 2013, 2:59 PM

    Definitely, great idea

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    Mute Kieran Shields
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    Dec 6th 2013, 3:53 PM

    As someone who has a lost a brother to suicide I think this is a marvellous idea. I already engage people periodically about their mental well being and I would wear this ring proudly. Again well done.i personally think it could make a difference.

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    Mute Caroline Maher
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    Dec 6th 2013, 4:23 PM

    Great idea. As someone currently suffering from pnd I think this is a really nice idea. Great way to showvyour support. Id be proud to wear it.

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    Mute Jenster
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    Dec 6th 2013, 6:55 PM

    Well said Caroline and brave to admit same.

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    Mute Dorothy T. Murphy
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    Dec 6th 2013, 9:45 PM

    i hope you are ok. i had it four years ago. what a dreadful experience. Xxx

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    Mute Caroline Maher
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    Dec 6th 2013, 11:42 PM

    Thank u x

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    Mute Caroline Maher
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    Dec 6th 2013, 11:42 PM

    Thank you. Its a cliche but talking helps!

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    Mute Deirdre Seoighe
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    Dec 6th 2013, 3:11 PM

    Great idea

    59
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    Mute Elizabeth Gibson
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    Dec 6th 2013, 3:15 PM

    In a heartbeat, sign me up.

    51
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    Mute Michelle Mc Loughney
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    Dec 6th 2013, 5:16 PM

    I think it’s a great idea. Sometimes people with mental illness need to talk quite badly and may need a friendly face. Sure anything that helps or shows solidarity is a good thing IMO.

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    Mute Pearce Filmlid
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    Dec 6th 2013, 11:38 PM

    Now that’s decisive!! i like that.

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    Mute Celia Murphy
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    Dec 6th 2013, 3:56 PM

    What a fantastic idea! I would certainly wear one, the greatest difficulty for people suffering mental health issues is the fear that they will be ostracised and or misunderstood, and the majority of the time they don’t need advise or to be told what to do, they just need someone to listen. Take it from someone who has been there!

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    Mute Jennifer McGovern
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    Dec 6th 2013, 3:18 PM

    Fantastic idea. Subtle yet powerful. A simple gesture that could mean so much. You have my vote!

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    Mute Kerry Blake
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    Dec 6th 2013, 3:16 PM

    Great idea look forward to buying something from them.

    36
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    Mute Aimee Kavanagh
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    Dec 6th 2013, 3:15 PM

    Yes definitely :-)

    35
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    Mute Pearce Filmlid
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    Dec 6th 2013, 11:34 PM

    :-(

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    Mute Ita O'Brien
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    Dec 6th 2013, 4:09 PM

    Great idea, if nothing else but just to promote awareness and hopefully help those going through dark times feel a little less alone.

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    Mute Diarmuid Comer
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    Dec 6th 2013, 5:58 PM

    What a great idea….it’s about time we get rid of the stigma surrounding mental health

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    Mute Pearce Filmlid
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    Dec 6th 2013, 11:34 PM

    Yeah!!!!! Be gone stigma!!!!1

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    Mute Michael Daly
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    Dec 6th 2013, 9:55 PM

    As a person with my own mental health issues I’m not sure I would approach a complete stranger. However a colleague, friend, family member etc. wearing one might encourage some to open up. People wearing a pin should be aware of their own limitations and not make matters worse. Perhaps if they also carried a card with phone nos. etc?

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    Mute Pearce Filmlid
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    Dec 6th 2013, 11:28 PM

    Now we’re suckin diesel!!!

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    Mute Phylly Lane
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    Dec 6th 2013, 3:42 PM

    Brilliant idea

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    Mute Pearce Filmlid
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    Dec 6th 2013, 11:37 PM

    Pure Genius!!!!

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    Mute Ronan Kennedy
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    Dec 6th 2013, 3:26 PM

    It’s a good idea. Endangered by people who will just get one to look cool do

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    Mute Mark Bannon
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    Dec 6th 2013, 4:21 PM

    Abso-friggin-lutely, I’d wear one of these. I already get so much joy from helping friends, this would be a great opportunity to let the open world know that it’s grand to talk to so many people out there. Sign me up already!

    16
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    Mute Maurice Murphy
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    Dec 6th 2013, 3:45 PM

    Marvellous ! Good on ye lads…

    16
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    Mute Jeremy Kyle
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    Dec 6th 2013, 3:16 PM

    Have random nutters walk up to me on the street babbling about their first world problems? No thanks.

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    Mute Niamh Naughton Walsh
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    Dec 6th 2013, 4:21 PM

    Do you tar all people with mental health issues as ‘nutters’? No wonder there’s a still a stigma in Ireland with muppets like you posting ridiculous comments like this.

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    Mute Celia Murphy
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    Dec 6th 2013, 5:17 PM

    Jeremy, ( clearly not your real name) I feel more saddened than angry at your glib and extremely ignorant comment. I only hope you will someday grow up!

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    Mute Pearce Filmlid
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    Dec 6th 2013, 11:19 PM

    Ah, there’s not really a stigma anymore. Sure I heard that being a loola is all the rage now.

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    Mute Pearce Filmlid
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    Dec 6th 2013, 11:25 PM

    But don’t you do that for a living?

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    Mute richard fallon
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    Dec 7th 2013, 12:02 AM

    @Celia Murphy, you will always gets low-lifes on here wasting space with their idiotic remarks.
    ignore these clowns and just lets get on with the effort that good people are making , to offer some sort of help to those who will , believe me, appreciate it in the long run.

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    Mute Pearce Filmlid
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    Dec 7th 2013, 9:06 PM

    This groupthink nonsense is not going to help anyone except maybe the people who are peddling it and definitely the pharma companies who will happily sell drugs to all of you people who think that your natural reactions to living in a cesspool of a world are a “mental health problem”.

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    Mute Megan Ní Dhonnchú
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    Dec 6th 2013, 4:36 PM

    Brilliant idea with so much potential..

    People wanting to help others can show it and be prepared to be approached
    AND it gives nothing but confidence to a vulnerable person wanting to talk to somebody

    Win-win really!

    Totally agree with the previous comment, hopefully it wouldn’t turn into a fashion statement :/
    Considering the rate of suicide/suffering in this country I’m optimistic people would take it seriously though!

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    Mute Marko Burns
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    Dec 6th 2013, 3:03 PM

    Hug for Life? sounds hilarious ;) Like something out of the Day Today.
    Must get cracking on my line of jewelry for heroin addicts.

    15
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    Mute John Donovan
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    Dec 6th 2013, 3:09 PM

    You’re a moron. Grow up. Its not a funny topic.

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    Mute Aham Wiezer
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    Dec 8th 2013, 3:32 AM

    Your a sheep . wake up . Learn to think for yourself .

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    Mute Caroline Maher
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    Dec 6th 2013, 11:48 PM

    I think what ppl like about this idea is that its a way of saying we get how serious mental health problems are. We get that it doesnt mean you are ‘nuts’ or ‘defective’.
    Personally I would wear it for that reason. Im no authority on mental health and while Id be happy for someone to approach me with acproblem, wearing the pin doesn’t mean I can fix u, it means I wont judge u.

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    Mute Natalie May
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    Dec 6th 2013, 4:20 PM

    Great idea. Anything to raise awareness is very welcome and I would certainly wear a pin

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    Mute Pearce Filmlid
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    Dec 6th 2013, 11:31 PM

    And what else?

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    Mute molly coddled
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    Dec 8th 2013, 12:14 AM

    Love your name Pearce

    Very witty.

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    Mute Pearce Filmlid
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    Dec 8th 2013, 7:59 PM

    Thanks

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    Mute molly coddled
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    Dec 6th 2013, 5:28 PM

    It’s a good idea.

    I would wear one, don’t know if I’d be any good advice wise, the Samaritans turned me down as a volunteer – fact.

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    Mute Jenster
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    Dec 6th 2013, 6:55 PM

    At least you tried Molly.

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    Mute molly coddled
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    Dec 6th 2013, 7:51 PM

    I did Jenster, went through the training and all.
    They said that I would be a risky choice, whatever that means.

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    Mute Jenster
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    Dec 6th 2013, 7:56 PM

    Perhaps like myself you’d take things a bit more personally… Hard not to when you hear what’s going on. It takes a very particular type of person and a calling to do that job… You need to switch off. Not sure I could. No criticism by the way. Very admiral you tried …..

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    Mute molly coddled
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    Dec 6th 2013, 9:19 PM

    That may very well be so Jenster.

    Being a suicide survivor myself (hate the term failed suicide, very fatalistic) may have been an issue, you know too close to home etc.,

    All I wanted to do was help

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    Mute Jenster
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    Dec 6th 2013, 9:50 PM

    Molly we had a suicide in our own family. Tragedy doesn’t describe it. The impact is shocking. Thank god you are still here. It’s not a failure. In any shape or form. You are still here for a reason. Never forget that.

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    Mute Pearce Filmlid
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    Dec 6th 2013, 11:35 PM

    Maybe they were bad Samaritans.

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    Mute molly coddled
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    Dec 7th 2013, 12:51 AM

    Pearce

    There is never a bad Samaritan

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    Mute molly coddled
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    Dec 7th 2013, 1:03 AM

    Jenster, the thing is people who are suicidal only want out.

    I am sorry for your loss, truly, from the deepest depth of my heart.

    Sometimes, you just want the game to end.

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    Mute Dhakina's Sword
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    Dec 7th 2013, 1:54 AM

    Molly, the game you refer to is only played by a minority in society. The rest of us would never behave so distastefully. The majority of us have such huge respect for each other, and life itself, as to never describe it as a game. It’s only a minority who think that way. I’m guessing that you’re tired of those minorities treating life as a twisted game, while it could be so much more than that.

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    Mute molly coddled
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    Dec 7th 2013, 2:18 AM

    Dhakina, seeing as you have such a high regard for society, would you please tell me the last time you tried/succeeded to help anyone, apart from yourself

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    Mute molly coddled
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    Dec 7th 2013, 2:33 AM

    Also Dhakina it is because of people like you, the great intolerant, that the stigma persists

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    Mute Philip Doyle
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    Dec 6th 2013, 5:54 PM

    Definitely would. Great idea!

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    Mute Derek Cullen
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    Dec 6th 2013, 7:55 PM

    Great idea and well done for taking the initiative. I’d definitely support it.

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    Mute Pearce Filmlid
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    Dec 6th 2013, 11:26 PM

    Like a pushup bra?

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    Mute Jenster
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    Dec 6th 2013, 6:54 PM

    There isn’t enough help. That’s a known fact. If people know they can talk to someone and know where to go, this might solve one of the problems. Great idea.

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    Mute Pearce Filmlid
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    Dec 6th 2013, 11:27 PM

    You talk about people needing to know where to go but what pharmacy would you send them to?

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    Mute DeREMuhz
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    Dec 6th 2013, 9:54 PM

    I think the idea behind this initiative is definitely well intended, and it is certainly great to show support for those with mental health difficulties and to show that it’s totally okay to talk to someone about those difficulties. But I do share concerns mentioned by others. Such pins could raise expectations as to what a wearer can offer. There is a difference between listening and providing evidenced-based, expert help. People need to be signposted to their GP, or A&E if in crisis (especially out of hours) or to established services with trained listeners (Samaritans, 1life, see yourmentalhealth.ie for more). It can be very risky for untrained lay individuals to attempt to provide advice or solve problems, and it is easy to find yourself in over your head, especially when the difficulties are complex. Indeed, a central part of professional training is learning to recognise the limits of your own competence and direct those in need to appropriate supports. Bear in mind that mental health professionals never work in isolation; there is always a team or supervision available to them, which simply isn’t available for untrained lay listeners.

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    Mute Pearce Filmlid
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    Dec 6th 2013, 11:05 PM

    Wouldn’t it be easier just to drug the entire nation?

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    Mute DeREMuhz
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    Dec 6th 2013, 11:19 PM

    @ Pearce: Who’s talking about drugging the nation? I’m talking about accessing appropriate support from trained professionals which includes listening services and talking therapies. Talking therapies are in most cases accessed via a GP. That many people don’t realise this is clearly a problem. Presenting to A&E in crisis will enable an individual to access a range of psychiatric, psychological, and counselling services. The medical setting does not necessarily equate to medical management, depending on the needs of the individual. This kind of misinterpretation is why I would have reservations about the pins.

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    Mute Pearce Filmlid
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    Dec 7th 2013, 10:35 AM

    Why are you not talking about the the health of society? Why are you not talking about a society which is becoming more and more hostile to human well-being? Why not talk about the greed and corruption? The erosion of personal freedom and democracy. The massive social inequality. The destruction of heritage and community. The effects of media such as shows like X-factor where people watch other people being sneered at and belittled. Why not talk about the effect of the cult of celebrity and the fashion industry on people and their expectations of themselves? Or the culture of constant fear being propagated by the media. What about the sexualization of children? What about technology , the blistering rate of change and our ability to handle it? What about our ever increasing detachment from the natural world and our absolute immersion in a soulless culture of consumerism? What about a food supply which is becoming ever increasingly controlled by corporations and polluted with toxins and chemicals? what about the Fluoride in our drinking water? Ask yourself – In a society such as this, is it not completely natural to feel despair, distress, anger, confusion, hopelessness etc?

    Should we not be dealing with the causes instead of the symptoms? There has been a mantra like media obsession with mental health now for about 4 years. I’ve been paying very close attention to it. Never in any television or radio discussion, newspaper article or internet discussion such as this, has there been any discussion of the profound ill-health of society. Does that not strike you as strange? Is there not an inextricable link between societal health and mental health? ? Or do mental health problems arise and exist in a Vacum? Unless you people start getting real and talking about society then this is all one big circle-jerk and you people are just useful idiots in a campaign which is most likely backed by the pharma industry for the purpose of getting as many people as possible dependent on their drugs. Wake up!!!!!

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    Mute molly coddled
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    Dec 7th 2013, 11:25 AM

    @Pearse, I do like your name btw.

    I’ve been around for quite some time, seen things, heard things experienced things most people would be horrified by.

    One thing I have deduced is that society has improved, it has become more open to discussion particularly since the advent of the internet.

    I grew up in east London, now that was a place highly intolerant particularly to those of Irish heritage.

    Always remember, humans are flawed beings and as such form flawed societies.

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    Mute Pearce Filmlid
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    Dec 7th 2013, 11:45 AM

    Don’t attempt to trump me with lines like the opening line of your comment. It won’t wash with me. We’ve all had our experiences.

    Some aspects of society may have improved, some may have disimproved that does not change the fact that we are living in a world which is profoundly sick and, for the most part, run by psychopaths. I know humans are flawed but we are allowing the most flawed of us to drag the rest of us down. I don’t agree that society has become more open to discussion. I believe people are coming more and more under the control of the media/state and they think less and less for themselves. What passes for “discussion” is often people falling in to line with what ever politically correct agenda has been passed down from on high and trotting out prescribed wisdoms. Just because there’s a load of chatter going on, it does not mean that much of it is meaningful discussion.

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    Mute molly coddled
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    Dec 7th 2013, 4:49 PM

    No ‘trumping’ intended, just sharing with you an observation I made, apologies for offending you.

    I disagree with your psychopath observation, Psychopaths are very often self destructive, I believe that they are sociopaths (very astute and cunning creatures) and people are more often than not tricked into placing them in key positions of power. That can be rectified, it takes time ‘tho.

    People like to follow each other akin to sheep or cattle, some are intelligent, some are not, such is the nature of the beast. Hence, that is why Facebook, twitter et all., are so popular.

    Every now and again you will find amongst all the chatter very interesting discussions and observations and it is from these that we learn and grow intellectually.

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    Mute Ephen Fecker
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    Dec 7th 2013, 9:56 PM

    They already do that with fluoride.

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    Mute Ephen Fecker
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    Dec 7th 2013, 10:28 PM

    They already do that, with Fluoride. :-)

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    Mute Pearce Filmlid
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    Dec 8th 2013, 8:02 PM

    I know. I’ve heard snippets of talk about adding lithium to the water also, so that we can be completely enfeebled.

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    Mute Pearce Filmlid
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    Dec 8th 2013, 8:04 PM

    You may find this interesting. As it progresses, it expresses very effectively what I have been trying to say about the world. Particularly at about 30:000 on. http://www.redicecreations.com/radio/2013/12/RIR-131206.php

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    Mute pongodhall
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    Feb 11th 2015, 1:20 PM

    I have these concerns too. So many of us are lonely, orphans, bereaved etc. and have those issues and would love to talk and talk to a sympathetic ear. That is one thing.
    Where there is anything approaching a mental problem of any other proportion then listening may be nowhere near enough and professional help is the way to go. Well meaning folk could actually cause more harm than good. Please do not be angry as it seems that I am not supportive. It is the opposite. Support must be useful not just well intentioned.
    I am for the idea of showing public support but, do you mean when shopping someone sees pin and asks for a chat then or appointments could be asked for or what?
    I would also like to see this level of support for epileptic, asthmatics, and disabled, old people too. All could be included in this generic phrasing of a person needing a bit of company, someone to talk to.
    Invitations to and help getting to and from a group that would suit them and make a difference in lives, something to look forward to.

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    Mute pongodhall
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    Feb 11th 2015, 1:22 PM

    Exactly, and I share those concerns too.

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    Mute pongodhall
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    Feb 11th 2015, 1:23 PM

    Exactly.

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    Mute Gillian Okeeffe
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    Dec 7th 2013, 12:07 AM

    As someone how has battled up and down over the past 10 years with Anxiety and Panic attacks and Depression I think this is a fantastic idea and I would back it 100%. At the start I found it extremely hard to open up and talk to people about my illness but Thank God I did because having an open ear was the start of me excepting that this is an illness which has to be treated like all others and by talking about it helps with the stigma attached to mental health.

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    Mute Caroline Maher
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    Dec 7th 2013, 12:16 AM

    Ive just started dealing with my own illness Gillian and I completely agree. Anythingvthat goes towards removing a stigma can’t be a bad thing.

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    Mute pongodhall
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    Feb 11th 2015, 1:26 PM

    I think more small groups up and down the country are a safer environment for all. If people could talk earlier, share, discuss (with the professional at the helm) perhaps developing into worse depression and suicide attempts may be prevented as help should not be offered as an emergency only.

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    Mute Emmet Gilgunn
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    Dec 6th 2013, 5:07 PM

    great idea

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    Mute Pearce Filmlid
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    Dec 6th 2013, 11:29 PM

    Yeah!! It’s up there with the Lightbulb and poop-scooper!

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    Mute Aham Wiezer
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    Dec 6th 2013, 10:35 PM

    Can nobody see that this is all nonsense and will help no one ?

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    Mute Pearce Filmlid
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    Dec 6th 2013, 11:16 PM

    You can’t say that!!! How dare you. What kind of monster are you? Have you no conscience? I hope you are never touched by a mental elf (problem). What kind of example do you think you’re setting for the young people? If you have a problem with all of this, you don’t have to be on here reading it and making your poisonous remarks. Have you no shame? What kind of person are you? I feel sorry for you. You should be ashamed of yourself!! How do you sleep at night? Damn!!!!! You’ve filled me with righteous indignation. I’m going to have to take a Valium and maybe a couple of Prozac just to calm down.

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    Mute Gavin Huban
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    Dec 6th 2013, 8:42 PM

    Great idea….that, unfortunately will not work in the real world….mental health is a serious issue that should be dealt with by people who know what they are doing ……and not by the well-intentioned “the road to perdition..” being paved with good intentions …….while it is a noble idea, the reality is that most people would not be interested in having strangers approach them to discuss their problems…..

    I would be seriously worried that this idea would only serve to reinforce the “nutter walking up to a complete stranger” stigma/stereotype mentioned above…….

    What really needs to change is the culture of the country…..education, education, education….teach our kids, not just those with mental health issues, that:

    1. it is acceptable to talk about your problems
    2. it doesn’t make you less of a person if you have these problems
    3. asking for help (appropriate help) isn’t a sign of weakness but of strength

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    Mute Pearce Filmlid
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    Dec 6th 2013, 11:21 PM

    4. Medication is the answer.

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    Mute Aham Wiezer
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    Dec 6th 2013, 10:24 PM

    Can anyone else not see that this is nonsense and will help nobody ?

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    Mute Jenster
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    Dec 6th 2013, 10:34 PM

    Fine Aham, don’t partake so

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    Mute Aham Wiezer
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    Dec 6th 2013, 11:09 PM

    Fine Jenster just don’t read my comments if you don’t like them

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    Mute Pearce Filmlid
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    Dec 6th 2013, 11:17 PM

    I Agree. Only people who agree should be on here saying anything.

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    Mute Pearce Filmlid
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    Dec 6th 2013, 11:24 PM

    You should not be making those comments if you are not willing get in to line.

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    Mute Pearce Filmlid
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    Dec 8th 2013, 8:05 PM

    Is participation in the groupthink mandatory then?

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    Mute Dorothy T. Murphy
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    Dec 6th 2013, 9:33 PM

    id wear one alright.

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    Mute Pearce Filmlid
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    Dec 6th 2013, 11:04 PM

    would ya now? Well aren’t you great!!!!

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    Mute Emer Sugrue
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    Dec 6th 2013, 7:04 PM

    Is there a pin to indicate that while I think it’s good to talk to someone about your problems, that someone should absolutely not be me?

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    Mute Elaine Cassin
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    Dec 6th 2013, 11:46 PM

    That’s a fantastic idea, then people suffering from depression won’t feel so alone

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    Mute Pearce Filmlid
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    Dec 6th 2013, 9:59 PM

    Eye was once a shiny spoon reflecting a bad moon. Eye used to stay in bed till noon. Eye would fart on my own ass reflection. Eastenders would give me an erection. Eye would shake and shudder like a laughing cow’s udder. But unlike the cow, Eye was not laughing. Inside, Eye was scrunching up. But unlike a child’s face that scrunches up with delighted laughter, Eye was not scrunching up like a child’s face with delighted laughter. Eye was lost on an ocean of tumult. I was heavily involved in the occult. Eye knew Eye had a problem with mine mental elf but the length and girth of mine stigmata made me clam up like a clam. Eye was sworn to silence under threat of violence from the strong arm of my own self-harm. But then Eye discovered cocaine and in no time Eye was like the two guys in the Barry’s tea advert. Eye was “all talk”. Talking helped me fix mine mental elf and now, thank BOB, I am normalized again. So will I wear a pin? Well, did Hitler not prove that all it takes is one little pr*ck to frog march a nation in to totalitarianism?

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    Mute Catherine Sims
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    Dec 7th 2013, 2:00 AM

    This is well intentioned but mental health issues is a term that covers a wide range of conditions. I personally would never open up to a stranger and I wouldn’t expect to be able to help a stranger who opened up to me beyond pointing them in the direction if those who know what they are doing.

    You don’t know what the persons issue is.you don’t know their triggers . You can’t hand them platitudes or patronizing comments. None of those work. What do you then? Walk away? Exchange numbers? I don’t think this pin is a good idea.

    Mental illness is an illness. You wouldn’t expect a stranger on a train to help cure your cancer . The same is true for bipolar disorder depression panic attacks and many others. Let’s not minimize mental health conditions .Let’s recognise that they are serious conditions.

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    Mute Majicalo
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    Dec 7th 2013, 5:40 AM

    There’s already a green ribbon for this

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    Mute Ephen Fecker
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    Dec 9th 2013, 8:31 AM

    There’s an App for that!

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    Mute Pearce Filmlid
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    Dec 6th 2013, 9:57 PM

    pppppppppppppp

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    Mute Dorothy T. Murphy
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    Dec 9th 2013, 11:22 AM

    People who are suicidal need change in their lives, not looking for out as someone commented there. Its not nessessarily just depressed people who can be suicidal, you can be just so tired of living with an ilness that has changed you, like say a brain injury. I think the pin is a good idea because I actually do have suicide training. Before I had the training, people have come up to me out of the blue and told me they are suicidal. One fella I talked out of going into the liffey, I hadnt a clue what to do so I listened to him and gave him a big hug and told him where the samaritans office was. He had camed down and was going to go home. I was with him quite a while. When I got back to my studio I cried with the shock of it and I hope to this day hes ok. Work got me suicide training then and that was great, its just like having first aid.. knowing what to do.
    Another person commented about it being good news for pharmaceutical companies… thats just silly. While medication can indeed help people the real recovery is in learning coping skills and talking to people who care be it proffesionals or trusted family and friends.

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    Mute Ephen Fecker
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    Dec 9th 2013, 4:58 PM

    Not silly at all. Pharmaceutical companies have the ability to eradicate quite a number of illnesses but choose to sell a maintenance program instead in order to make as much money from your predicament while you continue to to suffer.

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    Mute Siobhan Cooke
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    Dec 7th 2013, 7:32 AM

    I think it’s a good idea,because it could show the suffer that people have some under standing of what their going through. That they won’t laugh or judge about it and that they are on these side. And the more people that do that the suffer might find it easier to get help from a doctor knowing they have a lot of people supporting them and their illness.

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    Mute Kay McCabe
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    Dec 7th 2013, 3:09 AM

    Anything that would help highlight the plague in our country is a good idea

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    Mute Ephen Fecker
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    Dec 7th 2013, 5:35 PM

    Typical Bullshit…..I would wear a pin to state that I would be willing to listen to any person needing help or comfort.
    So enough of this rubbish about one single issue.

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    Mute Robert Burke
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    Dec 7th 2013, 10:07 AM

    Great Idea!
    Well Done.

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    Mute Joe Traynor
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    Dec 6th 2013, 6:55 PM

    Sure I will talk about your mental health as long as you listen about mine.

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    Mute Pearce Filmlid
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    Dec 6th 2013, 11:22 PM

    Ok. I tell you what. you go first.

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    Mute Aham Wiezer
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    Dec 10th 2013, 8:51 AM

    Does anyone want a biscuit ? they’re chocolate digestives ? ?

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    Mute Ephen Fecker
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    Dec 7th 2013, 5:40 PM

    Don’t see any Mental Health professionals wearing pins to show they are really concerned enough to listen.

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    Mute Ephen Fecker
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    Dec 8th 2013, 8:36 PM

    I don’t want to see the Shrink st 3:00
    maybe there’s nothing wrong with me!

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    Mute Ephen Fecker
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    Dec 8th 2013, 8:40 PM

    at 3:00

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    Mute Steve O'Dubhda
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    Dec 17th 2013, 8:01 AM

    Sounds like a good idea but perhaps a little training in suicide prevention would be an asset…..

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    Mute Jennifer Steedman
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    Dec 15th 2013, 6:41 PM

    Brilliant idea :)

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    Mute Evelyn Hughes
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    Dec 7th 2013, 3:03 AM

    Sign me up. Been there got the t shirt. We can but try, even if it’s to point someone to Aware r similar. All it’s saying is ur open to talk which is all sone people need. We have to try everything to cut all d suicides

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    Mute Aime O Shea
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    Dec 7th 2013, 1:41 AM

    Fantastic idea :)

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    Mute Tom Sullivan
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    Dec 8th 2013, 12:46 PM

    Another story about mental health? I haven’t seen one of them on The Journal in… oh… it must be days.

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    Mute Ephen Fecker
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    Dec 8th 2013, 8:32 PM

    Let me preface my comment by saying, I have four family members who decided to end their life. So I do not make comments lightly. Some of these were bad decisions while others, it could be argued, may have been the only real alternative. What might be worth considering before one attempts to take this action is, you are going nowhere except dispersing back anonymously into the vast energy from whence you came but you will know nothing of it and that will be the end of everything you are currently aware of. So I intend to stick around and only consider going when I am physically unfit and totally dependent on others for my personal needs.

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    Mute pongodhall
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    Feb 11th 2015, 1:33 PM

    Ethan, hope you are alright yourself for all that grief is so very hard to cope with. I am so sorry to hear of your family losses.

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    Mute Ephen Fecker
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    Dec 8th 2013, 8:15 PM

    Let me prefaced comment by saying…. I have four close family who decided to end their life.

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