Limerick people urged to ‘ask for help' if there struggling during the festive period

A LIMERICK man who has fought his way out of depression and addiction has urged people who might be struggling this Christmas to ask for help.

John McMahon from Kennedy Park on the city’s southside acknowledges the festive season can be tough for some people, especially those living alone or without family support around them.

And this can often see people turn to drink and drugs as a way to numb the pain.

Mr McMahon, who in the New Year will begin a weekly podcast – focused on positive mental health - says this year, it might be harder than ever with the cost-of-living crisis meaning there is even less money on the table.

“I want to get the message across – I know it’s hard for people with energy costs. People’s mental health can get worse at Christmas – you think of loved ones who have gone. Sometimes, people do turn to drink and drugs. But you don’t have to do this. There is support out there,” he said.

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“You can pick up the phone to your friends and ask them to meet you for a coffee. That’s what I do – if I ever get depressed, I’ll go through my phone book,” he said, while acknowledging that there are also listening services like the Samaritans.

They can be contacted free, on a 24-hours-a-day, seven-day-a-week basis at 116-123.

Often it is people feeling lonely at Christmas-time that can spark problems.

Loneliness can lead to depression, depression can lead to trying to find ways to ease the pain through drink and drugs.

“People can often turn to drink and drugs to fit in. Society now, as you see on social media, means everyone wants to fit in and be part of a group,” John added.

Having fought back from the brink, the father-of-one has enrolled at the Technological University of the Shannon where he’s completing a degree in community and addiction studies.

He’s also volunteering in the Moylish college’s counselling department having previously offered support to people.

John will launch his podcast in the New Year with Limerick rapper Will-zee entitled No Spudz.

Among the guests he has lined up is Roxboro boxer Lee Reeves, who recorded his 10th professional win last Sunday.

“We’ve all had tough journeys. I’m trying to get as many guests on as possible, and treat it as a self-help podcast,” he explained.