UNIVERSITY of Limerick (UL) is addressing the ‘elephant in the room’ when it comes to mental health, with a new sculpture on campus aimed to break down stigma, encourage openness, and promote mental wellbeing.
The nationwide initiative is led by broadcaster, former rugby star, and mental health advocate Brent Pope, and has seen hand-painted elephant sculptures pop up across universities, schools, workplaces, and public spaces around Ireland.
Each elephant sculpture is intended to serve as a reminder that mental health is something we all carry, and that speaking up can make a difference.
The elephant represents a strong yet gentle creature and the silent presence of mental health struggles, often invisible, but sometimes too big to ignore.
Speaking at the launch at UL’s Glucksman Library, UL President Professor Shane Kilcommins said that “being part of this initiative reminds us that no one in our UL community should ever feel they are alone”.
“Students and staff alike go through periods of vulnerability, and projects like this help normalise conversations that can so often feel difficult to start.”
Brent Pope delivered a moving and personal address on the day, saying the initiative is about sparking conversations that might not happen otherwise.
“Everybody has an elephant. We all carry something, and what I hope this initiative brings to UL is a gentle reminder that none of us are alone in that. Just seeing the elephant on campus can spark a conversation that might change a life,” he said.
“When I talk about elephants, I don’t just mean anxiety or depression. It could be loneliness, homesickness, the weight of expectation, or anything that chips away at your wellbeing. We all have something, and by normalising these conversations, we make it easier to share and support one another.”
Also speaking at the event were Clodagh Ruddy from Cornmarket, UL graduate and Paralympian Tiarnán O’Donnell, and Luan Lyons, who designed the UL elephant.
Each spoke about the importance of creating an environment where people feel safe, supported, and encouraged to talk openly.
The UL elephant will remain in the Glucksman Library over the next few weeks as part of the BeWell@UL programme.
It will then move to different locations across campus, ensuring it is seen by as many people as possible.
