Darkness Into Light to be rescheduled for autumn

JUST ONE the many charity events to fall victim of the Covid-19 pandemic is the hugely popular Darkness Into Light walks, which were due to take place in four locations across County Wexford - Courtown, Enniscorthy, New Ross and Wexford.

The lucrative walks, which raised much-needed funds for Pieta House, will now not go ahead on May 9, but organisers are hopeful that the event can be rescheduled for sometime in the autumn.

Pieta House, which provides support and counselling to anyone engaging in self-harm or has suicidal thoughts as well as families affected by suicide, warned that the decision leaves the charity with a very significant funding gap.

With this in mind, the HSE has released guidelines on how we can all look after our mental health during these times of uncertainty.

‘Some people might find it more worrying than others but try to remember that medical, scientific and public health experts are working hard to contain the virus. Most people’s lives will change in some way over a period of days, weeks or months. But in time, it will pass,’ a spokesperson said.

Tips include staying informed, but setting limits for news and social media, as not to add to your worry.

It’s important to note that you should always use trustworthy and reliable sources to get your news, such as those approved by the Press Council of Ireland and the Press Ombudsman.

On social media, people may talk about their own worries or beliefs, but you don’t need to make them your own. Too much time on social media may increase your worry and levels of anxiety.

Keep up your healthy routines and keep your days structured. It’s important now to pay attention to your needs and feelings, especially during times of stress. You may still be able to do some of the things you enjoy and find relaxing.

The HSE suggest regular exercise, especially walking, keeping regular sleep routines, maintaining a healthy, balanced diet, avoiding excessive alcohol, practice breathing and relaxation or try to read a book.

The team also recommend staying connected to others, such as friends and family.

But it’s important to adhere to advice, so stay connected to people in other ways like e-mail, social media, video calls or phone calls.

Talk to children and young people, and remember that you don’t have to appear to be strong or to try to cope with things by yourself.

Involving your children in your plans to manage this situation is important. Try to consider how they might be feeling and share the facts with them in a way that suits their age and temperament, without causing alarm.

The HSE suggest that you also remind yourself and others to look after physical and mental health and that if you smoke or drink alcohol, try to avoid doing this any more than usual as it won’t help in the long-term.

The final piece of advice is not to judge people or make assumptions about who is responsible for the spread of the disease as the coronavirus can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, nationality or ethnicity.

More support or helplines are available on www.hse.ie/services.