Headford students send out a giant message about depression

By SIOBHÃÂN HOLLIMAN The students believe the fundraiser has definitely increased awareness among their fellow classmates about depression. 'I think we'd notice it now if someone wasn't their usual self or might be in trouble. We wanted people to know that there is always somewhere to go for help,' said Laura Reddington. Before the record attempt the students conducted a survey in the school, which found that most of the teenagers knew someone affected by depression and many had a family member suffering with depression. Depression is nothing to be ashamed of. It's scary that it's so common. It seems to be a bit of a taboo topic among teenagers,' said one of the organisers. Music from local singer-songwriter Don Stiffe and young band Buenos Noches helped lift the spirits of the students who gathered on the school green. In the weeks before the event Transition Year students put up posters around the school asking 'Are you aware?' It started people talking and when more information was provided about what was planned, everyone in the school came on board. More than 800 students and staff held black and white A1 sheets above their heads to form the face logo of Aware. Each student also contributed €2 to the charity as part of the mental health awareness initiative. Addressing the participating students school principal James Whyte congratulated everyone for taking part. 'It's a great example of teamwork and well done to everybody here today,' he said. Posters will remain in place throughout the school to continue making young people aware of depression and to provide helpline numbers for those who might find themselves in need of someone to talk to. Further information on depression and the services of Aware can be found at www.aware.ie or contact 1890-303302.