The #littlethings that make a difference to your mental health – Neville

Fine Gael Party Chairman and President of the Irish Association of Suicidology, Dan Neville TD, yesterday attended the launch of the #littlethings, mental health and wellbeing social marketing campaign. This campaign is being run by the HSE’s National Office for Suicide Prevention in partnership with over 20 other organisations. 

“As President of the Irish Association of Suicidology, I was delighted to attend the launch of this campaign. Social media is an important and an unavoidable part of young people’s lives. We know the dangers of social media when it comes to bullying, but this campaign highlights that social media also has great potential to help and to support young people in times of trouble.

“At the centre of #littlethings is the desire to communicate that we all experience life’s storms – the day to day difficulties that are part of life, like stress, grief, feeling down, worried, anxious. #littlethings also assures young people that there are things that you can do that will have a positive impact on how you feel, and how you cope. Through #littlethings you can find out more about mental well-being and be confident that support is available.

“#littlethings are acts of self-care that are proven to help us feel better and get through tough times. These include keeping active, talking about your problems, d oing things with others , e ating healthily , s taying in touch , d rinking less alcohol , l ooking out for others and s leeping well.

“People are encouraged to use social media to share their own #littlethings, inspiring other people to find what works for them.

“In the Budget last week €35 million was allocated to mental health services. This means that since this Government has come to power €125 million has been spent on mental health. This is hugely significant, it will help support community services so people can receive care close to home and it will provide resources to this long-neglected area of the health service. However, mental well-being begins with looking after the #littlethings, by taking the time to look after our mental health and by being aware of the supports that are out there.

“I would encourage everyone to take part in the #littlethings campaign and to visit www.yourmentalhealth.ie, a new online resource that contains the most comprehensive online database of mental health support services ever developed in Ireland.  Services are searchable by both location and topic and this new interactive online resource is mobile, tablet and desktop friendly.”