E136: Turning Pain into Purpose: A Mother’s Response to Suicide

Each year, more than 700,000 people across the world die by suicide. In the UK alone, over 7,000 lives were lost to suicide in 2023.Catherine McBennett is a mother who faced the unthinkable when her 15-year-old daughter, Niamh, died by suicide. In the wake of unimaginable grief, Catherine made a powerful choice: to honour Niamh’s memory by helping others. She founded the Niamh Louise Foundation in 2005, a charity offering vital support to those struggling with suicidal thoughts and to families affected by suicide.Catherine shares Niamh’s story - who she was, the days leading up to her death, and the complicated emotions that followed, including the judgement and stigma she faced from others. We explore what signs to look out for, what you can do if someone you love is struggling, and what real interventions can make a difference. This is not just a story of loss, it’s one of hope, action, and healing.If you or someone you know is struggling, please know you are not alone. Warning: This episode discusses suicide and may be distressing for some listeners. Please take care while listening.Links from EpisodeNiamh Louise FoundationWebsite:https://www.niamhlouisefoundation.com/ Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/niamhlouisefoundation/?hl=en-gb The Samaritanshttps://www.samaritans.org/ni/samaritans-ireland/ Brought to you in Partnership with MCG Property Group -To arrange a no-obligation call, use link below:https://mcgpropertygroup.co.uk/mcg-digg-podcast/MCG Property Group Website:https://mcgpropertygroup.co.uk/ Location Partner for Series 11 - Grafter househttps://www.grafterhouse.com/ This Episode was recorded in Waterman Househttps://www.waterman.house/