The national suicide and self-harm prevention charity Pieta has announced that it is hiring additional therapists in Galway and Tuam.
Pieta intends to recruit additional therapists for its centres in Galway City, Tuam, and Ballina to boost services in the west of Ireland.
This will build on the more than 200 therapists and support staff already employed at 20 centres around the country.
Speaking about the recruitment, Regional Manager Gráinne McGill said “Here at Pieta, we envision a world where suicide, self-harm and stigma can be replaced by hope, self-care, and acceptance and we welcome new therapists with the same vision.”
In Galway alone, 31% of the people who come to Pieta for help have attempted suicide, and a quarter have had someone close to them take their own life.
Some of the triggers identified included depression and anxiety (50%), loneliness (27%) and family issues (19%).
Gráinne McGill thanked the people of Galway and Mayo for the financial support they have shown for the charity, which has made it possible for them to expand their service staff.
“Their generosity for the recent Darkness Into Light Sunrise appeal, proudly supported by Electric Ireland, has made this recruitment drive a reality. We are extremely thankful for this.”
The past year has been one of great anxiety and isolation for many people, and there has been a corresponding 30% increase in the number of calls and texts made to Pieta.
Pieta offers free counselling to those suffering from suicidal ideation and to people who are engaging in self-harm, as well as a counselling service to support individuals, couples, families, and children who have been bereaved by suicide.
For further information and to apply for these positions, please visit www.pieta.ie/careers.
Pieta provides 24/7 support – if you are suicidal, self-harming or bereaved you can contact Pieta 24/7 via the Freephone crisis helpline on 1800 247 247, you can also text HELP to 51444.
