PJ Gallagher reveals he spent 11 weeks in St Patrick’s Mental Hospital

PJ Gallagher spent 11 weeks in hospital after suffering a "total breakdown".

Radio host PJ Gallagher has revealed he spent 11 weeks in St. Patrick's Mental Hospital. Speaking on the Radio Nova podcast Glory Dayz, Gallagher said he was a danger to himself. PJ suffered a breakdown during a walk with his ex-wife Elaine last year. The comedian said they were out walking their dogs when he had "a complete and utter mental breakdown". "I fell on my knees and everything,” he shared. Gallagher explained that he was overcome with an inescapable fear. He said he didn't want to be alive. "The only way of getting rid of it was just not to be around anymore. Fear of nothing, just the crazy stuff going on in my head,” he explained. “It feels so stupid when you say it now but fear of homelessness, fear of being poor, fear of not having money, fear of having no skills, fear of being useless, fear of being a burden on people, fear of all of that. Feeling like you are in the way of the world.” Last December, after waiting for a bed for three weeks, Gallagher was admitted to St. Patrick's Mental Hospital. He remained in the hospital until March. He praised his friend Steffanie Preissner who saved his life on his lowest day.

"I know it sounds impossible but give yourself the chance, talk to your friends, tell everybody around you that you’re not feeling well, because you will get help.”

PJ added, "I got to the point where it didn’t matter anymore, it had turned into a life-or-death situation.” “I didn’t believe her or anything, but I know if I didn’t go to her house that day I was going to go and do something else.” PJ said you have to work at being mentally well, but it is possible. “I will get sick again but it’s never going to be like that again. Hopefully, I will never be in hospital again. I hopefully never have to take time off work again.” He shared; “I know it’s going to sound insane to anyone that is depressed and I know it sounds impossible but give yourself the chance, talk to your friends, tell everybody around you that you’re not feeling well, because you will get help.” "There is a way out," he stressed. People like PJ Gallagher will help make others feel less alone in their struggles. Speaking out about mental health problems takes a lot of courage, but it's always worth it. If you're struggling mentally then you can reach out to Samaritans on 116 123. You can also text 50808 for support. The free, anonymous, 24/7 messaging service provides everything from a calming chat to immediate support. 50808 provides a safe space where you’re listened to by a trained volunteer.