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Belfast Live
Belfast Live
National
Shaun Keenan

Young Derry singer pens song to help others who are struggling with mental health

A teenager from Derry has penned a song about those struggling with mental health in Derry.

Ellie-Rose Henry, 15, said she decided to write the song to raise awareness for people who suffer from these "horrible illnesses".

The teen has also started a fundraiser to raise money for mental health charities and rescue services.

Read more: Concern NI landmark could 'fall down' if not repaired

In an effort to raise the profile of the fundraiser, Ellie has reached out to MyDerry and other partners across the city including the Mayor Graham Warke and TikTok sensation Mammy Banter.

"I just want them to know that they are not alone and help is available. Never feel ashamed, never feel like you can't talk to anyone. I think more needs to be done to help people and their families going through these hard times.

"Our city definitely needs a rehab centre as well that is funded by the government as families can't afford to pay for these services.

"I wanted to get as many amazing organisations on board as I possibly could so I contacted Foyle Search and Rescue, ARC Fitness, HURT, Zest, CCIS Extern, Me4Mental, Samaritans, Lifeline and PIPS who gladly got behind me and also let me use their logos for my video as well.

"I've chosen to support these charities due to the huge amount of work they do in the city, saving the lives of people and families. I would be most grateful for any donation towards these charities, no matter how big or small."

She added: "It can make a difference to these non-funded organisations that do a lot of work regarding mental health/suicide prevention and addiction. I hope my song and video can help raise awareness and relate to others suffering to let them know they are not alone and help is always there.

"I feel very passionate and I think our cities need rehabilitation centres and more help as people have to go through a waiting list and by that time it could be too late for help. It's not just the people suffering, it's families and their loved ones. I think these facilities should have funding as families are struggling to pay fees for help for their loved ones."

If you would like to donate to the GoFundMe page, you can do so HERE.

Read more: City of Derry Airport granted £3m in funding

Read more: MyDerry readers tell us the one new shop they want in the city

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