Louth Samaritans remind callers not to face Christmas struggles alone

Samaritans Drogheda and North East are reminding those feeling the pressure of Christmas to reach out for support and a listening ear.

Anyone in need of emotional support can call Samaritans anonymously on freephone 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.ie. Volunteers will be on duty throughout the holidays, including Christmas Day.

Last year, Samaritans volunteers answered more than 30,000 calls and emails during the month of December, with more than 800 of those on Christmas Day. Mental health concerns, loneliness and isolation, family and relationships were issues among the main concerns raised by callers. 

Over 130 volunteers were on duty during the day – with the same expected this year.

Margaret Fahey, Branch Director, wants to remind anyone who is finding the festive season difficult to reach out and not struggle in silence.

She said: “Christmas is seen as a happy time for people, but for others it can be quite challenging. Bereavement, loneliness, relationship and family problems, abuse and drug and alcohol misuse can feature heavily in some homes. Parents can also be struggling with financial pressures and struggle to the expectation to appear happy.

“Samaritans is a charity that prevents suicide through the power of human connection and providing that human connection is crucial for many of our callers at this time of year.

“It is vital that, with regular support services often closed, people know our volunteers are there, available 24/7, if they are struggling.” 

Businesses and landmarks are being urged to light up in green for Samaritans’ Longest Night on Sunday 21st December - the Winter Solstice - to show people Samaritans are here for them during the long dark nights. Members of the public can also support by lighting a candle on the night and show their support across social media.

Samaritans is calling on everyone to support the Longest Night campaign on the winter solstice by lighting up a public building or space in green, or lighting a candle in their window, to show people we are there for them during their darkest hours. 

Last year, sites across the county supported the campaign, including Millmount and MacBride Railway Station, alongside national landmarks, hotels, pubs, and council offices and universities nationwide.

All information is available on www.samaritans.ie/longestnight and images can be shared on social media tagging Samaritans Ireland on Facebook,  X, Instagram, TikTok, or LinkedIn, using the hashtags #SamaritansLongestNight.

Margaret added: “We really want to thank anyone who has supported Samaritans’ Longest Night campaign over the years as it’s vital that we spread the message that we are there everyone during the long dark winter nights. 

Read Next: Louth TD presses HSE for clarity on dropped enhanced flu vaccine

Once again, we will be in Scotch Hall and the Drogheda Town Centre distributing our “Candle of Hope” packs, inviting you to light up during the dark hours as a symbol of hope for those who are struggling and a reminder to  the community that support is available, not only on the Longest Night but every night of the year”.

“We encourage anyone who needs support this Christmas not to struggle alone. We are here, 24 hours a day, on freephone 116 123.”