World Mental Health Week runs from 10th – 16th October and this year a variety of events will take place throughout Donegal to highlight the importance of positive mental health.
The theme for the week is ‘Building Resilience Together’.
According to Bill Vaughan, Mental Health Ireland ‘resilience is about the ability to ‘bounce back’ from difficulties and have the strength to change and adapt to new circumstances.’
He said: “Considering that we are all facing more and more challenges it is vital that we practice ways to build our resilience. That way we can maintain good mental health even in the face of difficulties.”
World Mental Health Week provides an opportunity to show case initiatives promoting mental health in the county. Anne Sheridan, Mental Health Promotion officer, HSE said: ‘Many groups and organisations around the county are doing fantastic work in the area of positive mental health. There is no doubt that it is a major concern in communities at the moment and the array of events during this week will certainly put the spotlight on the many ways in which community, voluntary and statutory services can provide support.”
She added: “I am particularly thrilled to see the work going on in a number of schools this week because schools are an important place for young people to learn the skills for good mental health”
One of the week’s events will involve Donegal Youth Council developing postcards with ‘tips to unwind your mind’ for distribution around the county.
Marie Duffy from Donegal Youth Council said: “It is great to see young people taking an active role in promoting positive mental health in their schools. Promoting positive mental health is a top priority for Donegal Youth Council and they have been working hard to reduce the stigma associated with it.”
The good news is that resilience can be developed and learned and ten tips to promote resilience is a key message of the week. According to Bill Vaughan, Mental Health Ireland the tips are practical and don’t cost money.
They include:
- Have the courage to be imperfect
- Take time for yourself
- Sign up for that course or join that club
- Be active daily in as many ways as you can
- Spend time with people who make you feel good
- Laugh out loud each day
- Get your sleep
- Ask for help
- Talk out your troubles
- Remember that this too shall pass
So, whether it is going for a walk or listening to a talk… a cup of tea and a chat, or yoga on a mat …laughter at your lunch, or joining a new bunch – do something to acknowledge Mental Health Week …. you’re worth it !
WORLD MENTAL HEALTH WEEK
10th – 16th October 2011
Theme: Building Resilience Together
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Morning Walk Glenveagh
7am in Glenveagh National Park, meeting in the car park for a short guided tract
walk, 1-2 hrs. Suitable for all. Walk costs €5 per adult. Children are free. Places must
be booked in advance at 074 9137698. Breakfast is available in Tea Rooms after for
€10. OPEN TO PUBLIC.
A.S.I.S.T. (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training) Moville
9am – 4.30pm in Moville Family Resource Centre. For more details contact
074 9385548.
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