Don’t suffer in silence like Craig
Club tackles mental health stigma
Paisley Rugby Club has urged Buddies to speak up if they struggling as players remember a teammate who tragically took his own life.
The Anchor-based team marked Mental Health Awareness Week by sharing the story of senior player Craig Grumoli.
Mental health nurse Craig committed suicide in 2012, aged 26, after battling with his own mental health.
The club is determined his story is not repeated as it called on anyone struggling to talk to pals or loved ones.
A spokesman told how Craig would give up his time to help others with their problems, but didn’t always share his own.
He said: “Around one in four people are affected by mental health issues each year in Scotland.
“Paisley Rugby Club has its own tragic story, where a player succumbed to mental health issues.
“Senior player Craig Grumoli tragically committed suicide in 2012.
“Craig was a more than just a player at the club, he was a friend to the whole squad and no one had a bad word to say about him.
“He was a mental health nurse and listened to other players’ problems, helping where he could.
“Craig is missed every single day by friends who are now stalwarts of the senior club.
“Craig didn’t speak out when times were tough.”
The team hopes to break down the stigma around ill mental health.
The spokesman added: “As a club, we are promoting mental health wellbeing every single day and we encourage everyone to speak out about mental health.
“Whether it’s to a friend or colleague, let’s stop the stigmatisation of mental health and speak out.
“Here’s to Craig and to all the lives he touched. Still in our hearts.”
Mental Health Awareness Week runs until Sunday.
To find out more and access helpful information and resources, visit www. mentalhealth.org.uk
SAMH gives mental health information and can direct you to local services. Call 0141 530 1000 or email enquire@samh. org.uk
If you need to talk, call Breathing Space on 0800 838587 or see www. breathingspace.scot
Families who need support after being bereaved by suicide can contact PETAL on 01698 324 502 or email info@petalsupport. com
Call Samaritans for free on 116 123 or email the charity at jo@samaritans. org