Essential mental health resources
All too often, I meet people who have delayed seeking help for a mental health issue. They are often unaware of the resources that are available, so this week, I want to highlight resources that can help.
1 Your doctor
Many GPs are over-stretched, but they remain the backbone to mental health delivery. Your GP knows where to find good quality counselling resources in your area and, in the case of severe mental health challenges, will refer you or your family member to the Multidisciplinary Mental Health Teams or Child & Adolescence Mental Health Services.
2 Samaritans Ireland
Samaritans provide round the clock support for people in need; whether your situation is urgent or you just need someone to talk to. Calls are confidential and you don’t have to give personal details if you don’t want to. Call 116 123, visit samaritans. org. or email jo@samaritans.ie.
3 SpunOut
SpunOut is a youth information website, created by young people, for young people. It’s an excellent resource with articles on all aspects of mental health and well-being, giving advice and information on a range of topics. spunout.ie
4 HSE National Counselling Service
The HSE National Counselling Service (NCS) is a confidential counselling and psychotherapy service available free of charge for those who have experienced physical, sexual or emotional abuse. People can refer themselves directly by calling Freep at 1800 234 110, hse.ie
5 GROW
GROW has 130 groups throughout the country. It helps people who have suffered or are suffering from mental health problems. You can call GROW or attend a meeting in your area where you can find support and share experience with others in your community who have been through similar situations. Call 1890 474 474 or visit grow.ie
6 A Lust For Life
A Lust For Life is an award-winning well-being movement to transform how we talk about and treat mental health. They lead national campaigns on mental health and drive social change and are developing an emotional resilience programme for children by children. The website is also an excellent resource with great articles and personal stories to help change the conversation. alustforlife.com.
7 Pieta House
Pieta House is a non-profit organisation which provides treatment for those experiencing suicidal thoughts or self-harm. They also operate the Suicide Bereavement Counselling centres to provide free counselling, therapy and support to those who have been affected by suicide. You can call 1800 247 247 or visit pieta.ie
8 Mental Health Ireland
A national voluntary organisation that aims to promote positive mental health for all people in Ireland. They have 92 Mental Health Associations throughout Ireland that fundraise and organise events and outings for people across the country struggling with mental illness. Their website acts as an excellent information resource. mentalhealthireland.ie
9 Aware
Aware is a nationwide organisation that provides education, information and support for people dealing with depression or bipolar disorder. They provide emotional and practical support through their helpline 1800 80 48 48, which is open Monday to Sunday from 10am to 10pm. aware.ie
10 Jigsaw
Jigsaw is the National Centre for Youth Mental Health that aims to offer vital support for young people, with 13 support centres across the country. They also provide education, training and workshops for young people, parents, teachers and health professionals. jigsaw.ie
11 Your Mental Health
An online resource for people to learn about mental health; how to support yourself and those you love and care for. It provides online articles and advice pieces and can point you in the direction of local services. yourmentalhealth.ie
12 Shine
Shine aims to empower people with mental health issues and their families by offering support, information and education. They also advocate for social change by defending the rights of all those with mental health issues. They provide a range of recover-focused support services, such as counselling and support groups. shine.ie