Limerick blogger and autism advocate Jade McNamara has opened up about the heartbreaking loss of her younger brother Gareth to suicide.
Gareth passed away six months ago at just 22 years old and Jade has revealed his death left her under a "dark cloud".
Speaking out on what would've been Gareth's birthday, mum-of-one Jade shared a candid post and childhood photos on Instagram.
Jade wrote: "Today would have been my brother's 23rd birthday. I am still coming to grips with losing him to suicide only six months ago.
"This is my first time been able to speak about it openly and even writing that sentence is difficult for me.
"People see one snap of me on Instagram smiling but there is so much more to me and to what my family have been going through.
"No matter where I am or who I am with I now have this constant feeling of a dark cloud that follows me. It just goes to show that not everything is always how it seems to be on the surface.
"Not a day goes by that I haven't shed tears thinking of Gareth and it hurts every day missing him.
"We need to keep talking and we need to keep supporting mental health awareness. There can be a light at the end of the tunnel."
Nearly three million calls made to Samaritans Ireland's freephone helpline over past five years
Jade is encouraging everyone to get involved with Darkness into Light, Pieta House's annual night walk to raise funds for the charity.
She said: "Darkness into Light is on the 11th of may. 19 countries across five continents will be taking part. Funds from Darkness into Light are raised to support Pieta House so they can continue to deliver their vital services. "
To register for the event or for more information on Darkness Into Light can be found here.
If you are struggling, don't suffer in silence - you can contact the Samaritans for free, non-judgemental conversation at any time of the day or night on 116 123 or text 087 260 9090 (standard text rates apply).
Alternatively, email jo@samaritans.ie or visit their website to find your nearest local branch.
