By By The Newsroom

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The “Connecting for Life Festival,” organised by local suicide prevention charity Insight Inishowen, takes place this Sunday, 14 September, from 3pm to 5pm. The festival is designed as a community gathering where individuals and families can take part in activities that boost mental health and wellbeing, while also connecting with local support services. Organisers say it will provide a relaxed and welcoming space where people of all ages can enjoy themselves while also learning about the resources available to support mental health. The event forms part of a wider programme of activities across Ireland highlighting the importance of suicide prevention and encouraging people to talk more openly about mental health. Each year, more than 500 people in Ireland lose their lives to suicide, and World Suicide Prevention Day aims to reduce stigma and promote compassion, understanding, and early intervention. As part of the national campaign, the HSE is also drawing attention to its free online suicide prevention training, Let’s Talk About Suicide. The one-hour course equips people with the skills to recognise the signs of suicide and engage safely in supportive conversations. Further training options such as safeTALK and ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training) and suicide bereavement workshops are also available. Insight’s Inishowen Swan Park festival underlines the importance of community connection in suicide prevention. With family activities, wellness opportunities, and access to information about local and national supports, the organisers hope the event will encourage people to look out for one another and help create a more supportive environment for those in need. The event is free to attend and open to everyone. See Insight Inishowen on Facebook *Anyone in distress can contact Lifeline 08088088000, Samaritans 116123, PIPS 08000886024 or Childline on 08001111. In RoI contact Pieta House 1800247247 or text HELP (51444); TEXT Crisis Textline Ireland (50808); or ring Samaritans 116-123.