HSE encourages people to look after their mental health and reach out for support this World Mental Health Day

A range of HSE mental health supports are available to people across Ireland – and people are encouraged to share information about these supports with family, friends and colleagues

To coincide with World Mental Health Day (Saturday, October 10), the HSE is encouraging people across Ireland to take time to look after their mental health and to reach out for support if they are finding things difficult.

Mental health difficulties can affect anyone at any stage of life. If you or someone you know is experiencing stress, anxiety, low mood or sleep difficulties, support is available.

The HSE's ‘My Mental Health Plan’ is an online interactive tool designed to help individuals over 18, to reflect on their mental health needs and receive personalised advice. The Navigator digital tool, developed by the HSE and spunout, connects young people with relevant mental health information and resources and can signpost them to appropriate support.

The HSE also provides information on the Your Mental Health website about a range of mental health supports and services available across Ireland. An information line is also available on 1800 111 888. The freephone service can provide information about mental health supports and services available nationally and locally. Support options include helplines, listening supports, counselling, and support groups. You can also talk to your GP about mental health difficulties.

Among the free supports available are:

• Text about it: Text HELLO to 50808 (funded by the HSE and provided by spunout)
• Free counselling sessions for men, see yourmentalhealth.ie/men for more information (funded by the HSE and provided by MyMind)
• Free online Cognitive Behavourioul Therapy for people experiencing Anxiety or Depression (funded by the HSE and provided by SilverCloud)
• Balancing Stress, a free programme to manage stress, worry, anxiety, low mood and relationship difficulties (free to access on the HSE website)

Brian Higgins, HSE Assistant National Director, Adult Mental Health, said: “Looking after our mental health is something we can all do, just as we look after our physical health. If you are finding things difficult, talking to someone and getting support can make a real difference. We want people to know that there are many free supports available right now and that you do not have to face things alone.

“This World Mental Health Day, we are also asking people to share information about these supports with the people around them. A conversation, a phone call or simply letting someone know how and where they can get help could make an important difference.”

These community-based supports and services are delivered in line with Sharing the Vision, Ireland’s national mental health policy. The implementation of the policy continues and supports the promotion of mental health, early intervention, and greater access to mental health supports within communities.