When an adolescent suffers with depression, their whole world can feel down. We open on a child’s room, a place of retreat from the world. Except it’s not. Our characters environment mirrors her inner struggle with depression. As we scan the room in one shot, we see toys, posters, clocks and pillows sigh and frown as they too struggle. We reach our character and find her sitting on a bed with her head bowed into her knees. She looks up and we see a powerfully sad expression upon her face. An on screen message reassures our audience that even if we can’t talk, the ISPCC is there to listen. We cut to a window and see a sad face made from condensation. A tear ascends and a smile appears as a warm light glows. The on screen message continues telling our audience that they can have a text conversation instead.
ISPCC Childline is the only 24-hour listening service for young people in Ireland. In 2015, they answered over 1089 phone calls a day. However, at times, teenagers feel they can’t talk for emotional reasons or because someone else in the family might hear them. So, having a text service creates a safer environment for communication in dire times. Every day ISPCC Childline deals with pressing issues such as suicide, depression, abuse, exploitation, homelessness and addiction from children as young a nine. They want to see an Ireland where all children are heard and valued. Where children and families can cope with challenges. Where they can live carelessly and have a positive childhood too. But first they need to know, they’re not alone, because they can pick up their phone and text ISPCC Childline anonymously anytime when they’re feeling down.
