A Derry youth who lost his brother to suicide is to travel a specialist health facility at the other end of the world to learn more about mental health and addiction.
Michael McCann is going to Boystown Behavioural Health Clinic in Sydney, Australia, for a 10-week placement which will equip him with the knowledge and skills to help local people upon his return.
A fundraising event, ‘Derry to Boystown’ - consisting of a sponsored kayak which is open to entries -- will take place on the River Foyle on Saturday, March 5, with proceeds going to assist Michael’s while on placement Down Under.
On the day participants will take off from Prehen boat club and kayak as far as the Peace Bridge.
The event will also raise awareness around the issue of mental health, particularly amongst young men who often find it more difficult to seek help.
Mark Doherty, from Community Restorative Justice, explained how local community groups got together to support Michael.
He said: "Michael was offered the opportunity to travel to the Boystown Behavioural Health Clinic in Sydney, Australia this April on a placement which will allow him the opportunity to experience firsth and the techniques used in this specialist facility.
“This is an excellent opportunity and although Michael is happy to meet the cost himself we as a community felt that we could assist him as the experience he will gain may well be a valuable asset to us here in Derry.”
Michael (29) lost his younger brother Mark (17) to suicide in 2005.
The loss of Mark was a defining point in Michael's life and one which saw him develop an increased awareness of the struggles faced by those who are affected by issues such as depression and poor mental and emotional well-being.
As a youth worker in the Ballymagroarty and Hazelbank area, Michael continues to experience first hand the issues which face the younger generation on a regular basis.
A third year student in Magee, he explained a little about the placement.
He said: “I have been offered a 10 week placement at the facility; the staff there work with young men and their families and deal with issues ranging from self esteem to mental health and addiction.
“As someone who has experienced the impact of suicide within my own family I have some understanding and empathy with young men who are dealing with these types of issues.
“Suicide and mental health are extremely prevalent in today's society and I hope to learn from those involved at the facility, how they have developed ways in which to help young men to develop better coping mechanisms in order to better deal with issues which are affecting them.
He added: “I also hope to incorporate these experiences into my own work as I plan to develop a programme which will specifically target these issues which are affecting people here in Derry.
“I would like to thank CRJ and the Holy Family Men’s Group for their continued support and in helping to make this placement possible.”
Sponsor sheets can be obtained through Michael Mc Cann 07711774457 or Mark Doherty 07706031894.
Michael has also set up a Just Giving account which can be accessed through his Facebook page.
If you have a story or want to send a photo or video to us please contact the Derry Now editorial team on 028 7129 6600 for Derry City stories Or 028 7774 3970 for County Derry stories. Or you can email gareth@derrynews.net at any time.
