Upcoming cycle raising suicide awareness in Waterford

An upcoming event taking place across county Waterford is creating an important discussion about mental health and suicide.

Now in its tenth year, the annual Mental Health & Suicide Awareness Charity Cycle will take place on Easter Sunday, April 20.

Starting from Lemybrien at 9am, with registration from 8am, there is the option of a 50k or 30k cycle, so whatever your ability or fitness levels, it’s a fun, healthy way to support a worthy cause.

Speaking of the event, Cllr. Liam Brazil, who was one of the founders of the Charity Cycle said: “This cycle is all about promoting positive mental health and trying to reduce the stigma that's attached to both mental health and suicide.

“Every year we lose more than 500 people to suicide in Ireland and that is 500 families mourning the loss of a loved one and forever trying to understand why?" he said.

"Statistics from the USA show that each suicide affects a large circle of 135 people who may be in need of support following a suicide death," he added.

“If we can get people on their bikes, out in the beautiful countryside and talking about their mental health, that goes a very long way to alleviating the pain and pressures that they may be feeling.” 

Cllr Brazil added: “The message is that it is okay to not feel okay and mental health should be talked about openly the same way a physical illness can be discussed openly. By removing the stigma, we can create a more open and understanding society, where everybody is comfortable talking about their mental health.” 

The 10th Mental Health & Suicide Awareness 50k and 30k Charity Cycle will take in the picturesque villages of Kilmacthomas, Kilmeaden, Kill, Bunmahon and Durrow. 

Entry is €25 per person.

To register or to donate visit suicideorsurvive.ie/event/waterford-charity-cycle-50k-and-30k/