She's asking for more facilities for children, like her daughter, who are struggling with their mental health.
'The system is failing our children, it needs to be changed.'
That's the impassioned plea of Portarlington mum, Lee van Staden, who's campaigning for better services for children struggling with their mental health.
Her 11-year-old daughter, Ashley, is currently staying at the Linn Dara CAMHS Unit in Cherry Orchard.
Ms. van Staden says she's lucky she's only an hour away from her daughter, but not everyone has that luxury:
Please note this article contains references and discussion of self-harm and suicide.
Details of organisations that may assist in relation to such issues can be found below:
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SOSAD's freephone helpline is available 24/7, 365 days a year: 1800 901 909 -
Samaritans Ireland's 24 hour helpline can be reached on 116 123
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Pieta House can be called on 1800 247 247 or text 'HELP' to 51444
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Text About It's 24 hour text-line can be reached on 50808
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Jigsaw Laois/ Offaly - +353 57 93 52871 Email:reception.offaly@jigsaw.ie
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SpunOut Text About It: Free Text 'YMH' to 50808
Siobhán Leijen, a Psychological Trauma Therapist at Athlone Care Clinic, is advising parents to reach out and look for support if they believe their child is struggling with mental health issues:
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