The Action Mental Health (AMH) MensSana team present Mindset – a Mental and Emotional Health and Wellbeing Awareness Programme.

Programmes will be delivered in all youth and community settings across all Trust areas for groups of 8 – 20 people.

Mindset aims to raise awareness and increase knowledge and understanding of Mental and Emotional Health and Wellbeing, to raise awareness of signs and symptoms of mental ill health, promote self-help techniques and self-care and share information and/or resources on mental health support organisations available (locally and regionally).

For more details or to register your interest in one of their programmes please contact the AMH MensSana team: menssana@amh.org.uk or amhmenssanani@amh.org.uk.

Simon Malley, a parishioner from Naas Union of Parishes, has contacted us regarding a sponsored wheelchair Push Challenge that he is participating in on June 1^st in order to raise funds for Aware, who are working in partnership with MindMatters COI.

Simon has a fundraising page https://www.idonate.ie/fundraiser/11435750_simon-malley-s-fundraising-page.html, and also a  Facebook group ‘These Wheels Were Made for Pushing 2022’  https://www.facebook.com/groups/281220044090881 for anyone looking to support, or follow his challenge.

Your support is very much appreciated.

“A Big Thank you to everyone who has supported me so far I really appreciate it. Keep Smiling Keep Shining”

Applications for seed funding are now open.

This phase of the project will provide financial support for local mental health promotion initiatives which will address one/all the themes outlined above. Applications are now open and to apply an application form must be completed. The closing date for receipt of applications is Friday, 29th July 2022. It is envisaged that funding will be available from early autumn 2022.

Online application forms are available here, or you may request a form by email us at MHP@rcbdub.org

Looking for ways to raise much needed funds for this amazing charity, Belleek Pottery and Action Mental Health launched a design competition in 2021 to allow AMH Clients to express their mental health issues through art. The aim was to design a decal that will be applied and fired onto a Belleek Mug. Many beautiful entries were received and after careful consideration from the selection panel, including guest judge, artist and designer Terry Bradley, Zoe’s Rainbow Mug was selected to go into production and offered for sale with 20% of the proceeds of the Rainbow Mug will go to Action Mental Health.

The winner, Zoe, described her design;

‘I made this design on my tablet because I was inspired by the theme of HOPE. When I think of hope, I think of rainbows which are a lovely symbol for healing and recovery. I have struggled with Mental Health issues from a young age and the most important thing I have learnt on my journey is that healing is not linear. For me and many others healing is an everyday process, some days are much harder than others. Drawing and connecting with others at AMH has helped me rediscover HOPE. We have survived the most difficult days. You will be okay.’

Guest judge, Terry Bradley commented: ‘Zoe’s description of how healing is not linear perfectly fits her quote of ‘You will be ok’. Terry also told us: ‘This is honest and makes you smile. It is a positive affirmation during times when anyone is struggling and the rainbow and bright image acts as a reminder of the beautiful things in life.’

The Rainbow Mug is now available to purchase at Belleek Pottery, all Belleek Living Stores and www.belleek.com.

To purchase your mug(s) – click here or call into your local Belleek Living Store.

Wednesday 30th March will mark World Bipolar Day 2022.

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition which can affect thinking, energy, feelings and behaviour. Bipolar disorder can have a profound impact on every aspect of a person’s life, affecting their relationships, family and work life.  A correct diagnosis is essential for successful treatment and no one should have to suffer this alone.  One can lead a healthy and productive life once the illness is effectively treated.

Bipolar disorder is characterised by periods of low (depressed) or high (elated) mood separated by periods of normal mood.

Aware and Aware NI are charities in Ireland that provides free support, education and information services to those impacted by anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and related mood conditions.  Their websites have a number of useful resources available for anyone who experiences Bipolar Disorder, as well as their loved ones.  These resources are available at World Bipolar Day 2021 – Depression Support – Aware” and Aware NI – Home (aware-ni.org)