More than a hipster trend: How one beard is making a REAL difference

Jun 16, 2016

We've never thought of beards as anything other than a very welcome addition to a man's face, but it looks like they can do much more than add a level of charm to a bloke's appearance.

They can, in fact, help raise awareness of a matter close to the heart of millions of Irish people – mental health and suicide prevention.

While these issues have affected Irish families for generations, it’s only in recent years that we’ve actively tried to remove the stigma attached to these matter.

And with high-profile figures sharing their own experience of mental illness and members of the public campaigning for increased support, it’s heartening to know that none of us are fighting the battle alone.

Having been dealt a devastating blow after losing his father to suicide last year, Gary O’Dowd from Co. Kerry decided to turn a negative into a positive by embarking on a personal journey which will ultimately help families in a similar position to his own.

As part of The Bearded Man’s Battle for Suicide Prevention, Gary has been growing a beard for a year in order to raise money for two charities – Console and Kerry LifeLine – who were a huge support to the O’Dowd family in the aftermath of their father’s passing.

On July 16^th, Gary will take part in a Shave or Grow event in Jack Duggan’s Bar, Castlemaine, Co. Kerry where the public will decide whether Gary will ditch the beard or keep it for another year.

If the beard growing is a go’er, Gary will shave his head alongside other brave members of the public who want to get involved in this incredible cause.

So far, the Bearded Man campaign has raised over €700, but they need your help showing people that it’s OK not to be OK.