Episode 23 and my guest this week is Damien Gormley, a singer/songwriter, musician and mental health advocate from Clarecastle in Co. Clare. Damien 'The Young Rambler' Gormley will share with us how publicly posting about his discharge from HSE Mental Health Services on Social Media in April 2021 brought about a huge response from the public in helping to end the stigma of mental health issues in Ireland. Damien wants to share his story with others so that they know that they are loved and they do deserve to live and be supported, there is help out there. Damien struggled with traumatic events in his young life and turned to drink and drugs to help him cope and get through the bad days. In October 2020, Damien felt so lost and after walking over 6km, he reached a point where he wanted to end his life, thankfully, he turned around and asked for help. From being addicted to drugs, alcohol and living on the streets, Damien found the support that he needed, but only when he realised that he needed it. He always had his guitar by his side and his music was a way of coping with what he was feeling and being able to express himself. An open and honest young man who got help and now wants to give help to those that need it. You can find Damien on Facebook Instagram and Spotify This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sharonfitzmaurice.substack.com

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

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