DOZENS of uplifting messages have been attached Derry’s Foyle Bridge for people struggling with mental health issues.
Only last week two people were prevented from entering the water from the bridge by police and members of the public.
Derry teacher Gary Clarke came up with the idea and recruited people from across the city to design the posters.
One message reads: “When you can’t find the sunshine, be the sunshine.”
Another says: “You are not your illness.”
Mr Clarke told BBC News NI he has been inundated with people contacting him.
“I set up a Facebook page and people just want to help spread a positive message,” said Gary.
“People have also been sending me messages and ringing me because they want to talk about their problems. That is fine with me. People should feel free to speak out.”
He added: “Depression and anxiety are silent illnesses. So many people are affected in this city. I hope these posters can help at least one person.
“One woman contacted me because she lost her son to suicide years ago. She wanted to write a message, but struggled.
“I drove to her and we both went and placed the messages of hope on the bridge together. It was an emotional moment.
“I’m a teacher and I can see that young people do not like talking about their problems,” Gary said.
“Some of our young people don’t even know how to approach adults to talk.
“Yes, drugs and alcohol are a serious issue but so are things like exams and peer pressure.”
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