Xmas Appeal 2025 Donate It is our wish at St John of God to continue building on the services we offer people who are in desperate need of our support. But we can’t do it without you. Even when surrounded by loved ones, many people can feel very alone at Christmas. And even the family that does understand but feels helpless to change things, can feel powerless and alone. Martin* and his daughter Emma* know this all too well. Emma’s mental health challenges and undiagnosed autism had left her struggling to cope with change and the pressures of adolescence. She was just 14 years old when she attempted suicide. Emma’s traumatic experience ultimately led to her receiving the Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) that has transformed her life. It is a cognitive-behavioural psychological treatment for people who experience intense feelings and have difficulty regulating their emotions. The programme has been designed to help people at risk of endangering themselves through self-harm and/or suicide attempts. St John of God has developed a gold standard DBT programme in Ireland and is working hard to deliver this and a wide range of services to support both adults and children who are struggling. But the need is great. The latest census in Ireland highlighted that over 120,000 people are living with a psychological or emotional condition. Donate Now “It’s brought a very traumatic experience to an end and the smiles and closeness have returned to our family.” Martin says the DBT sessions were instrumental in supporting and guiding Emma, and the entire family, in the aftermath of her suicide attempt. Image courtesy of PeopleImages As we prepare to celebrate Christmas, many are struggling with their mental health. You can help someone access the support they need to be heard, helped and healed. Your kindness could save someone’s life. Donate Now *This is the story of real people. However, names have been changed and stock images used to protect their privacy. Manage Cookie Preferences