Green light shines to raise awareness of mental health
WORLD MENTAL Health Day was celebrated across County Wexford recently when a number of local landmark sites were lit up green to mark the occasion.
Green is the colour traditionally associated with mental health awareness and local organiser in County Wexford, Patrick Hipwell, from See Change, told this newspaper the event was very successful.
‘Normally, we distribute green ribbons to highlight mental health awareness but obviously that’s difficult at the moment,’ said Patrick.
‘ That’s why it was important that we celebrated World Mental Health day this way by lighting up different sites green,’ he added.
Patrick said it’s very important now to raise awareness of issues around mental health especially in the current climate where Covid-19 restrictions might be contributing to and compounding feelings of isolation.
‘Now that the darker evenings are coming in it means people won’t be able to get out as much for walks and that could lead to increased feelings of isolation,’ said Patrick.
‘It’s a serious issue anyway but the pandemic has added to it because people can’t socialise or interact as much,’ he added.
As part of the campaign to raise awareness the area around the Dubrody ship and emigrant flame in New Ross, Enniscorthy Castle and Wexford County Council’s headquarters in Carricklawn, Wexford, were lit up green.
Patrick said it’s important for people to know there is help out there if they are experiencing feelings of loneliness or isolation.
For people in County Wexford there is a dedicated Community Call helpline available to access through 053 9196000 or email covidsupport@wexfordcoco.ie