Mental Health Ireland here to help during COVID crisis

MENTAL Health Ireland is encouraging the country to stay connected, keep communicating, and to reassure themselves and each other during COVID-19 lock-down and beyond.

The message comes as Ireland’s longest established mental health charity shared new resources to help people support their own mental health and that of their loved ones during these tough times.

The ‘Connect, Communicate, Reassure’ resource pack was co-produced by people with lived experience of mental health challenges; supporters; family members; the Office of Mental Health Engagement and Recovery; and Mental Health Ireland itself. The resources include videos, posters and packs with information for those supporting mental health concerns during COVID-19, and tips for people currently accessing mental health services to support their own mental health at this time.

Some of the things we can do to support mental health amid COVID-19 are: Chat to your loved ones about their needs and yours; brainstorm the things you are doing well together; do up or review your crisis plan; identify supports to help with shopping/ pharmacy if needed; and ensure you have important numbers in one safe and accessible place

The resources including FAQs for those supporting mental-health concerns during COVID-19; a routine template and short video on how to use routine to support your mental health; and practical tips for supporting mental health.

Other Mental Health Ireland resources include its e-mail at info@mentalhealthireland.ie; phone line at (01) 284 1166; the Office for Mental Health Engagement and Recovery; mhengage@ hse.ie or jackie.farrell@hse.ie; and phoning either (01) 620 7303 or (087) 286 5346.

One could also contact Samaritans at jo@samaritans.org or by phoning 116 123.