Express your feelings and help others with Mothú

Mothú is an upcoming event on Saturday, May 4, organised by student Eric Ehigie and friends, in a bid to improve mental health awareness.

Eric explained, “The name Mothú was chosen as it is a rough synonym of expression as Gaeilge and the underlying theme of this event is the importance of expression when it comes to mental health.

“We are aiming to emphasise how expression is imperative to a healthy mind, and how there are different means in which someone can express themselves through.”

The event comprises of two parts, the first of which is a 5-a-side soccer tournament to be held on the Astroturf at St Mel’s college. The second part of the fundraising day will feature an array of quest speakers, a comedian and musicians.

“Planning for this occasion has been quite strenuous, but the positive impact this can have in the local area is worth all the time we have invested. I would love for this event to attract positive coverage to the area as Longford has received quite a lot of negative press lately.”

Eric added, “We have a star-studded line-up, with the likes of the former Rose of Tralee and European election candidate Maria Walsh and comedian Fabu D set to make an appearance.”

Also read: My Longford Life: Mental health advocate Shane Reid

Eric first moved to Longford in 2006. He currently resides in Longford town itself and has become an influential member of society, winning the Individual award at the recent Garda Youth Awards, taking on the role of welfare officer of the Irish Second Level Schools union and as a member of the Attic Youth Club and the Longford African Network.

“I reside in the town and I am honored to have been raised in a diverse and culturally blessed town such as Longford. I class myself as a proud resident in Longford who has learned a lot about different traditions and customs merely from my upbringing in the town.”

Eric called on people to be more vocal with their struggles mentally and says Longford is currently lacking adequate facilities for young people dealing with mental health issues. He hopes the event will help kickstart much needed developments.

“I feel people need to acknowledge mental health difficulties in order for us to make a positive change to the lives of those who suffer from the hands of these difficulties. I have friends that have suffered with their mental health and I have had my own ups and down also.

“There are not enough facilities in the local area for young people to go to seek help if they are feeling low. Hence why I am hoping this event will instigate a reaction from people in the local area, so they can begin doing their bit to create a Longford that comforts the youth.”

He urged everyone to attend what will be a fun-packed and completely free day on Saturday, May 4.

“It is guaranteed to be an action packed day filled with fun and invaluable information for people to take away with them.

“The event is free of charge. We have also received financial assistance from the council that will assist us in planning for this event.”

Eric thanked all of the other organisers for all of their help to date.

“We have a stakeholders group that consists of representatives from Longford County Council and the Attic Youth Club. They have invested their time into ensuring this event is a success and share our passion and long term vision for the local area.”