Caroline Lafferty, Chief Executive Officer of Cycle Against Suicide told the Belgian project: “We are hosting an awareness cycle on the issue of men’s mental health. I have included all details below and attached our graphic. This event is open to men and woman of all abilities. This event is not a race in any shape or form. As an awareness cycle, participants are pelotonised, and group travels at between 15km to 18km per hours. This allows people the opportunity to chat about their mental health and tell their story, often for the first time. The cycle becomes the ice-breaker”.
Since 2001, over 70% of suicide deaths in Northern Ireland have been male. Despite efforts to address mental health issues, the three-year rolling average of suicide deaths has remained the same since 2017. In 2022 alone, a total of 203 suicide deaths were reported, with a staggering 76.8% being male. The rate of suicide among males stood at 19.2 per 100,000 individuals, with the 40-44 age group representing the highest number of deaths. In response to these alarming statistics, Cycle Against Suicide’s Belfast Mental Health Awareness Cycle seeks to provide a platform for individuals to come together, share their stories, and challenge the stigma surrounding mental health. By participating in this event, participants are not only advocating for mental wellbeing but also creating a safe space where individuals feel empowered to seek help without fear of judgment. Our mission is to dismantle the stigma surrounding men’s mental health and create a society where emotional expression is celebrated as a sign of resilience. Men, like anyone else, deserve the opportunity to articulate their struggles and seek support. Our Belfast Awareness Cycle is a step towards building a community that values and supports mental wellbeing for all. The Belfast Mental Health Awareness Cycle is open to individuals of all genders and abilities. Women’s involvement is particularly crucial, providing invaluable perspective and encouragement to promote integral wellness for all. We ask that you join us on Saturday, May 11th to help create a society that prioritises mental health, support, and understanding. Together, we can break the silence and build a brighter, more resilient community. Registration is available at: https://www.cycleagainstsuicide.com/event/belfast-mental-health-awareness-cycle-breaking-the-silence/
Dates: Saturday May 11th – (Mental Health Week) Location: Commencing from CS Lewis Square, 402 Newtownards Road, Belfast, BT14 1HH…Time: Registration will open from 9am. Safety briefing will commence at 10am, with Cycle starting at 10.15am. Routes: 2 Routes 40km and 55km See attached the shorter route and here is the link for the longer route.: https://connect.garmin.com/modern/course/245517329 Maybe put the maps of the routes under the registration button. Cost: £20 (Please note; non Cycling Ireland members will be required to purchase a day licence/insurance).
