The GAA and Samaritans are urging players, coaches, and supporters to reach out for help if they are struggling to cope.
The suicide prevention charity marked its 10-year anniversary as the GAA Mental Health Partner as Croke Park.
Through the partnership, GAA players and former players team up with Samaritans volunteers from across the country to reduce the stigma around mental health and encourage anyone in need to seek help.
Jarlath Burns, President of the GAA, said: “Samaritans is one of the leading mental health charities in Ireland and, through this partnership, we want to raise awareness of their work and highlight the support they offer to adults of all ages who are in need of emotional support.
“We are delighted that 10 years on this partnership is still going strong. It embeds the values of both organisations, with volunteers at the heart of their communities working hard to make a difference.”
Former Galway hurler and psychotherapist Iggy Clarke, Limerick hurler Dan Morrissey, and Dublin footballer Nicole Owens, who has spoken about her own mental health struggles, were among the players supporting the cause.
Limerick hurler Dan Morrissey, former Galway hurler Iggy Clarke, and Dublin Ladies footballer Nicole Owens marking 10 years of Samaritans as the GAA mental health partner.
Samaritans and GAA volunteers also spoke about the impact the partnership has at grassroots, with Samaritans visiting clubs to give pitchside talks to young players on the importance of reaching out for help.
Sarah O’Toole, Executive Director of Samaritans Ireland, said: “Samaritans and the GAA were seen as a perfect fit for each other as we both have a nationwide presence, with volunteers at the heart of everything they do.
“Volunteers from both organisations have worked side by side to develop this partnership into an effective union that encourages GAA members to talk about their mental health and how they are feeling.
“The GAA has helped promote the Samaritans service and in turn, Samaritans have made themselves available to help educate local clubs about what we do and why we do it.”
Anyone, of any background, can contact Samaritans for support on freephone 116 123 or email [email protected].
Samaritans offer a safe place for someone to talk through any problem including mental health issues, isolation or loneliness, work, school or relationships pressures, and health or money worries.
