Clare Samaritans is reminding people that there is no shame in feeling lonely and it is important to speak to someone.
It follows the publication of an EU-wide study, which has revealed that Ireland is the loneliest country in Europe, with 20% of Irish respondents reported feeling lonely most or all of the time, compared to the European average of 13%.
National Institute of Health studies have linked loneliness with further health difficulties such as depression and diseases like Parkinson’s, diabetes, cancers, strokes, and early death.
Director of Clare Samaritans, Margaret McMahon, is reminding people that talking to someone is vital with coping with loneliness.
You can listen to the full Morning Focus interview below.