Help Support Cork Safety Alerts – Donate the price of a coffee here via Stripe: https://csalert.ie/donate
Today, Minister for Mental Health and Older People, Mary Butler, marked World Mental Health Day 2024, reminding the public to take steps to protect their mental health and seek help if needed. The annual observance, along with World Mental Health Month throughout October, aims to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and promote mental health supports available across communities in Ireland.
This year’s theme, “Mental Health at Work,” encourages workplaces to foster supportive, stigma-free environments. Minister Butler emphasised the importance of employment for mental well-being, stating:
“By creating workplaces that prioritise mental health, we support those who may have difficulties to find and remain in employment, benefiting from the sense of purpose that comes with work.”
Minister Butler highlighted the Government’s efforts to support mental health through initiatives like the Individual Placement Support (IPS) programme. This programme, led by the HSE Office for Mental Health Engagement and Recovery, helps people with mental health challenges return to or begin work.
Continued Investment in Mental Health
Significant investment in mental health services has expanded models of care, including crisis resolution, dual diagnosis, and Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) hubs. The Government continues to implement Ireland’s mental health policy, Sharing the Vision, and its suicide prevention policy, Connecting for Life.
Access to Mental Health Support
Minister Butler encouraged people to seek help if they are experiencing mental health challenges, noting:
“Every person has a role in breaking down mental health stigma and creating an environment where seeking help is normalised. Recovery is possible, and supports are available across Ireland.”
Mental health resources include the Your Mental Health Information Line (1800 111 888) and the 24/7 text service by texting “HELLO” to 50808. For more information, visit YourMentalHealth.ie.
The HSE also encourages the public to use tools like My Mental Health Plan, which provides personalised mental health support, and the Stress Control programme to manage stress and anxiety.
In line with the theme, workplaces are encouraged to adopt initiatives such as mindfulness, physical exercise, and creative arts to promote mental health among employees.