Mensana News Summer 2012

SPECIAL PuLLout INSIDE - Charities Act 2009 & Garda Clearance Summary

Issue 1Vol 20

REGIONAL EXPRESS

Barter for a Break p.15

Be Well Balloon Project p.23

NEWS AND EVENTS

"Expressions" Drama Project p.3

A new partnership between MHI and LGFA p.7

MENTAL HEALTH EDUCATION & PROMOTION

Activity Matters p.41

THE BUILDING RESILIENCE TOGETHER CAMPAIGN

Ten Tips to Build Your Resilience p.34

MHI PROJECTS AND ACTIVITIES

A National Project Promoting Positive Mental Health and Suicide Awareness by MHI/ HSE and Soroptrimists Ireland p.36

Mensana* News

Summer 2012

A newsletter dedicated to connecting you with Volunteers, local Mental Health Associations and other organisations

Mental Health Promotion Health promotion provides an effective theoretical and practice framework for addressing negative attitudes and stigma towards people who experience mental health difficulties.

• Health promotion is the process of enabling people to increase control over and to improve their health.

• Health promotion is the promotion of health enhancing activities and the suppressing of health damaging ones. It includes not only the actions and

attitudes of individuals but also the policies and activities of industries, corporations, governments and other public authorities.

The Ottawa Charter for Health Promotion outlines five ‘pillars’ of health promotion activity:

• Building healthy public policy.

• Re-orienting the health services - to advocate for health and to achieve a greater balance between health promotion and the curative services.

• Creating supportive environments - encouraging environmental measures which improve health, e.g. affordable housing.

• Strengthening community action - incorporating community development approaches into health promotion interventions so that communities are empowered to take control and improve their health collectively.

• Developing personal skills - by consulting people to identify their needs, involving them in the process of planning and evaluation of health promotion programmes to make them relevant and accessible.

With all of these factors in mind, MHI has set up its first formal Training & Education Prospectus. The modules are being delivered over 2012 and any member of the general public can apply to attend the courses. During this year we will deliver 17 modules on a broad range of mental health issues. The programmes will be evaluated and we intend to deliver the prospectus again in 2013.

Why not check out the prospectus online or contact head office or your MHI Development Officer for further details.

Ted Tierney, Deputy CEO, MHI.

In this issue

Mental Health IrelandSupporting Positive Mental Health

* “Mens sana in corpore sano” - Latin quotation meaning: “A Healthy Mind in a Healthy Body”

NEWS AND EVENTS“Expressions” Drama Project p.3

MHI Information and Communication Review Subgroup p.3

MHI Volunteer Zone p.5

Black & White, Grey Matters p.5

A Decade of Befriending in Waterford p.6

Borderline Personality Disorder p.7

A New Partnership Between MHI and LGFA p.7

Your Mental Health is Your Wealth p.8

Brussels Trip 2012 - Summerhill College, Sligo p.9

Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP) p.9

Nosce Te Ipsum…………Know Thyself By Lisa Butterly p.10

So What do You Think? A Guide for a Teenage Mind p.11

Launch of "A Start-Up Guide for New Clubhouses" p.12

Jigsaw Galway/Roscommon. ...an Update p.14

Mental Health Matters at the Volvo Ocean Race Galway p.13

REGIONAL EXPRESSEastern Region p.15

Midland Region p.17

North Eastern Region p.19

North Western Region p.21

South Eastern Region p.23

Southern Region p.29

Western Region p.29

Mid Western Region p.32

Charities Act 2009 & Garda Clearance Summary p.24

BUILDING RESILIENCE TOGETHER CAMPAIGN

Building Resilience Together campaign p.33

Ten Tips to Build Your Resilience p.34

National Choral Singing Project p.35

MHI PROJECTS AND ACTIVITIESA National Project Promoting Positive Mental Health and Suicide Awareness by MHI/ HSE and Soroptrimists Ireland p.36

Leitrim Students Win 2011-2012 National Public Speaking Title p.37

Adjudicator Training p.38

National Photographic Project p.39

Design an Art Cover Project p.39

Mental Health Matters and MHI Workshops p.40

MENTAL HEALTH EDUCATION & PROMOTION

Activity Matters p.41

The Benefits of Woodland Recreation to your Mental Health p.42

LET'S SHARECarlow MHA Calendar of Events 2012 p.43

Dalkey Troy Social Club, The Story So Far… p.44

Mental Health is Everyone’s Business p.47

ANNOUNCEMENTS p.48 GETTING TO KNOW YOU p.49 MIND GYM p.51

Contents

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This Drama Project is a national collaborative initiative which will include forging links with the following partners from the statutory, community and voluntary sectors such as mental health service users, staff in the mental health services, the local voluntary mental health associations, and the arts officers of the local councils. Mental Health Ireland recognises the important role the arts can play in the recovery of people with mental health difficulties and how increasing access to such cultural experience plays a vital role in this. MHI with their local Mental Health Association structure throughout the country will select 8-10 groups to be involved in this project. Each piece of drama produced will be centred on the themes of stigma and/or recovery. A national event will be held where each group will have the opportunity to perform their play and to celebrate service user participation in reducing stigma through the use of the arts.

Drama Therapy has long been used as an adjunct therapy within mental health treatment and care plans. It rightfully has a place within the recovery model of care based on its therapeutic benefits to all concerned.

Drama therapy benefits many client populations and is used in a variety of settings. These include psychiatric hospitals, mental health facilities, day treatment centres, nursing homes, substance abuse treatment, schools, businesses, and correctional facilities. Some populations served include children with learning and social difficulties, psychiatric patients and substance abusers.

The general aims of a Dramatherapy sessions include:

• Exploring ideas, issues and problems (e.g. low self esteem, bullying) using drama derived activities;

• Expressing and exploring feelings.

• Developing spontaneity and imagination and creativity.

• Improving self image and self confidence.

• Developing social and relationship skills.

• To Promote the use of Drama in the Mental health Services.

• As a means of promoting health and wellbeing.

• To bring together a range of partners from the Statutory and Voluntary sector to work collaboratively on reducing stigma associated with mental health problems.

• To promote the key message of the importance to challenge stigma and awareness of its impact on mental health.

• To hold a national event where each group involved in the project will have the opportunity to perform their play. This will also include celebrating service user participation in reducing stigma through the use of the arts.

For further information please contact Treasa Hanniffy at [email protected] or call 01 284 1166.

MHI Information and Communications Review Subgroup

Every national voluntary body depends on its Information and Communications to deliver its core message. With this in mind,

during 2010 MHI put in place a group of volunteers, staff and colleagues form the world of the voluntary sector to critically assess and evaluate all of its information and communications methodologies.

We critically examined the following; Leaflets, literature, posters, website etc. This onerous piece of work has been assiduously dealt with by this dedicated group who have given of their own time to take on this worthwhile task. Some of the obvious changes to emanate from the group’s recommendations have been:

1. Our new website which has been highly acclaimed.

2. The new look Mensana News magazine.

3. Our new poster campaigns e.g. Stigma and Discrimination and Building Resilience Together campaign.

4. MHI Volunteer Zone on the website.

On behalf of MHI we must acknowledge this great work and wish the group well on their future works.

*If any of our Volunteers wish to contribute to the review of our Information and Communications process, please submit your ideas to [email protected]


MHI Information and Communications Review Subgroup.L-R: Brenda Healy, Sean McKiernan, Sinead Hardi-man, Ted Tierney, Avril Nolan, Irene Ryan and Finola Colgan. Missing from the photo are Mi-chael Roberts, Anna Ogarek and Treasa Hanniffy.

Group PerspectiveThe group compromises of a wide variety of backgrounds, who are all passionate about mental health. The group reviews all MHI information leaflets, resource packs and publications and ensures they are up to date as much as possible and make suggestions for new material to be developed as the needs are identified. We have met four times to date over the past

News and Events“Expressions” Drama Project

two years and directed actions on all of the communications material. As a group we worked very well together, made good friendships and contacts along the way.

Brenda HealyI was very excited to be asked to be involved in the Communications Review Working Group. Now more than ever in Ireland it is important to update resources that directly influence and reflect positive attitudes to mental health. How we articulate and talk about our mental health as a community can directly readdress stigma, creating a forum for positive dialogue.

As part of the objectives of the Consultation Group, a review of the current MHI website was undertaken. Because MHI are committed to equal and inclusive user participation in service development, it was agreed to undertake primary research to incorporate the views of service users and to inform future developments in website design and content. The sample group chosen were then students of UCC and graduates of a Peer Mentoring Programme in mental health, delivered through the Disability Support Service and the GENIO Trust at UCC.

The sample group agreed that there was great potential in the website to become a key resource for people who need help. The recommendations were documented in a report and presented to the working work. Their input was very useful and instrumental in the redesign of the website.

The website is now very user friendly with a particular focus on the MHA volunteers. One of the most interesting and useful new developments on the site is the creation of 'The Volunteer Zone' (with a secure log-in) which is a source of all important information and a forum for exchanging ideas/opinions for local MHAs and their volunteers. The website also outlines a range of training

courses available to volunteers and community groups. These short courses focus on key topics in mental health and are open to everyone. Our leaflets and other promotional material are now available on the website. We have a ‘Do you need Help Now’ section and are in the construction of a ‘Recovery Zone’ all of which provide accessible information on being well and staying well.

We reviewed Mental Health Matters resource pack focusing on both language and content. Mental Health Matters is an excellent learning resource for young people, delivered by trained facilitators. It provides young people with a realistic understanding of mental health and illness. It also facilitates a forum for discussion on individual mental health that builds on positive attitudes to their own mental health. Finola’s student evaluations concluded that the pack is a very accessible and useful resource for young people. The Working Group did agree however to include a section that focused on ‘Recovery’ in Unit Four. ‘Recovery’ is not a new concept to any of us, however in many ways ‘recovery’ does represent a new paradigm in mental health, both in policy and in practice. It is a shift away from a predominantly medical/deficit response to mental illness that encompasses the social, the spiritual and the physical in mental health and what it means to be well. Recovery is person-centred, focussing on ways in which a person with a mental health difficulty can make authentic and responsible life choices and express hope. Recovery is a process or journey. It does not have a one way only response to wellness, your journey is unique to you. Self responsibility, hope, peer support, connecting with self and community and self advocacy represent key features of recovery.

We hope also the reader enjoys the new features and changes to the Mensana News Magazine. Many of our action plans are in progress and I look forward again to being part of that process.

Treasa HanniffyI was delighted to be asked to join the Mental Health Ireland Information and Communication Review Group in 2011. Initially I was asked to specifically look at Mental Health Matters – the resource pack for 14 – 18year olds. My educational background is in Health Promotion with a specific interest in Mental Health Promotion, as well as having experience of dealing with this age group in the school setting I felt I could make a big

contribution in this area.

The saying goes “The Youth of today are our Leaders of tomorrow”. So we need to give them as much information as possible to empower them to look after their Mental Well-being, as this has been a neglected area in Ireland in the past. This resource pack is designed to give the students knowledge of the difference of mental health and mental illness, the importance of your physical health, how it is important to your mental well being and vice versa and how they can look after their own mental well being. It also deals with the issue of stigma.

This is a valuable resource and was developed over 11 years ago, but still applicable in today’s world and we hope to update it in the near future. However the feedback we are receiving from students who complete the MHM programme in its current format is very positive.

I have found this experience to be very enjoyable, the group are very friendly, we all work well together and as there is such a wide perspective at the table you are always learning from one and another.

Irene Ryan and Avril NolanWe initially became involved with the MHI Information and Communications Review Group by invitation from Ted Tierney. We have both been recently involved in re-establishing the Carlow Mental Health Association; holding the positions of Chairperson and Secretary.

Working within the mental health profession, we have both a professional and personal interest in the area of mental health. Through joining the association; we became aware of Mental Health Ireland and its aim in promoting positive mental health. Working within the Mental Health Service we recognise firsthand the negative impact mental health issues have on individuals and their families; and feel it is important to educate people that we all have 'mental health' or 'emotional health' as well as our 'physical health'.

At our level we were actively involved in summarising the resource pack; identifying common practices within Associations, e.g. AGM requirements, volunteer support and completed an on line survey of student nurses on their views of the MHI website.

At group level collectively reviewed other materials and offered suggestions from a 4

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mental health perspective.

Personally we have found the experience enjoyable and have learned a lot. It has been a fantastic opportunity to meet with volunteers from other Mental Health Associations around the country, they have offered us support and advice as a fledgling organisation.

Michael RobertsMichael sits as Education Officer of Sligo MHA and on the MHI. A Cultural Anthropologist, he comments on the language of our organisation and how it displays and shapes our understanding of well-being, distress and trauma.

His earlier research work sought understanding of ideas of well-being, pain and suffering, recovery and later thriving. His fieldwork brought him into contact with many who had suffered various forms of breakdown and with many who are still are suffering from the trauma of abuse, neglect, bullying and stigma at the hand of family, carers, community, Church and State services. They were his professors.

He believes a cultural evolution is taking place in Ireland and abroad in our understanding of who we are and what we are doing here. He hopes to contribute to this evolution through his current work.

Staff Perspective: Sean McKiernan and Finola ColganIt has now been well over a year since the MHI Deputy CEO Ted Tierney asked Midlands Development Officer Finola Colgan and myself to represent our colleague Development Officers on the MHI Information and Communications Review Group. It was both an honour and a challenge for us both. The opportunity to work in a round table fashion with Mensana House staff, volunteers and experts from outside agencies was and continues to be stimulating and very productive and has produced new thinking and solid results. For instance the 'Volunteer Zone' as part of a much enhanced MHI website - which is now both a major national and international resource of web links relevant to those in need.

Mental Health Matters still proves a popular resource, not just for Transition Year teachers and their students, but those who work in Youth Reach centres, as youth group leaders, or those working in the mental health services to improve insight into issues faced by service users and their families. Our deliberations on

Mental Health Matters have focused on increasing the range of back up materials available to those who undergo training to deliver this most valuable of resources.

As part of our own contribution to the work of the group we surveyed our Development Officer colleagues, Mensana House staff and members of the Board, to ascertain their views particularly as regards an enhanced use of Information Technology in streamlining our work, and projecting it out to a wider and more youthful audience.

Our daily interactions with our MHA’s in the North Eastern and Midland regions provided important volunteer insights which have helped inform a new approach to bigger more comprehensive and colourful Mensana News whose publication is now much anticipated. Meeting the needs of our volunteers across the country in over 100 local MHAs is always to the forefront as we give our views on the development of information and communication devices and strategies and we are always keen to hear specific feedback.

MHI Volunteer Zone

One of the key recommendations of the MHI Information and Communications Review Group is the MHI to add Volunteer Zone. The committee went though a live presentation of the newly updated MHI website. There was unanimous agreement that it is now a very user friendly website and that they had received valuable support from NALA. It was noted that there is widespread and significant increase in the use of the website especially in the evening time.

There was discussion around the Volunteer Zone and the clear benefit for local MHA members. It was also noted that the philosophy behind this section is to give volunteers & local MHA's a sense of ownership about their work and partnership with MHI. To register the person must be a member of a local MHA.

The Volunteer Zone is an area for volunteers & local MHA’s to down load Mensana news, Insurance forms,

information from the MHI Resource pack and in general to have instant access to any MHI Information piece etc.

The Volunteer Zone is an exciting development within our new website. I am asking all volunteers to log on and sample the Zone for yourself and by all means provide us with feedback through the interactive forum provided.


Black & White, Greymatters Project

Promoting the creative side of mental illness; through article submissions & graphic design by Alice Ryan.

For as long as I can remember I have suffered from depression and five years ago I was diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder. Mental illness was always a subject that interested me. On my own personal road to recovery I had spent much time reading blogs, interviews, books on the subject and I found that a lot of the material was heavily focused on the negative side of mental illness. I especially found this to be the case when it came to BPD. Years ago, younger and more impressionable, these printed facts would have had a profound effect of my view of self. But being older I now understand that mental illness brings with it other factors, ones that I would not live without. Creativity, ambition, obsession (the healthy kind), passion, loyalty along with other things.

I had played around with the idea of a personal design project for a couple of

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years and decided a few months ago to start working on it. The initial idea was to create a series of images using my knowledge of design and collect pieces of writing or quotes from others that reflected my own personal experiences. Through their words I could express to my loved ones how I feel, so that they could develop a greater understanding of me.

Originally I had intended to do a series of ten posters, but when ten turned to twenty and I looked over the work I had done, I realised that the project was not just representative of me, but everyone who suffers from mental illness. Not really sure what I was trying to accomplish, I sent a three page sample to Mental Health Ireland and was contacted by Ted who said they would be very interested in meeting me.

Since this meeting the project has evolved... I named it Black&White Greymatters, turned my posters into a website, created a Facebook account, finally got on board with twitter and started a personal blog; this has all been very scary. As I am generally a very private person, I’ve had to work hard in finding my online voice. I’m getting better but it’s definitely something that takes practice. The feedback I have received has been incredible and I have already received several written submissions. The idea now is to get as many written submissions as possible, these will be added to the site (anonymously, unless otherwise requested) and I will then create new illustrations based on these submissions. I’m not sure where this project will go from here, but so far it has been very rewarding. I’d like to thank Mental Health Ireland for the encouragement they have shown me.

For more information please checkout the website at:

www.blackandwhitegreymatters.com

Alice Ryan the author of Black & White, Grey-matters project.

A Decade of Befriending in Waterford

Siobhan received few visitors when she was a patient in the Psychiatric Intensive Ward and was even more friendless when she returned home. Drinking coffee alone day after day was no life and she became determined not to be one of the many to be readmitted to hospital. Siobhan took the decision to join Waterford Social Befriending (a project of Waterford MHA) and readily admits this was a decision that transformed her life.

Every Saturday Waterford Social Befriending has a workshop for all members. At Siobhan's first attendance, Mary, an experienced member, sat down with her to help her feel at home amid the forty participating adult members. Attendance is always high because every one so enjoys being able to mix socially and to take part in a wide variety of programs whether it is first aid, advocacy, hygiene or craft activities.

Mental health problems are never mentioned. This is a space where members can be free from feeling reduced to merely someone with a problem. Confident of peer support they have a chance to think, plan and act positively. The workshop encourages this ethos of mutual respect and support with the aim of restoring members to the general community. Siobhan was delighted to find that she soon had several telephone numbers and an appointment to meet Mary for coffee later in the week.

Accepting responsibilities is encouraged.

For example, Project Leaders co-ordinate each of the weekday activities. Mary was in charge of swimming but there are leaders for football, bowling, arts and drama. These activities take place in different community centres so that members can gain confidence mixing with the public. All leaders form part of the Management Committee, which monitors and develops the project.

In 2002, Waterford Social Services and Psychiatric Nurses identified a need for a Befriending Project. This began using a traditional befriending structure but has now evolved into the present peer-based methodology. Thanks to constant support, especially from the HSE, Mental Health Ireland and Waterford MHA, plus the expertise and long personal commitment of Joan Power, former MHI Development Officer. The present configuration has been amazingly successful.

Regular feedback from members shows a decrease in symptoms, risk of relapse, fewer hospitalisations, increase in self -esteem and hope and a decrease in physical health needs; all leading to an improved quality of life. Success is measured by observable progress within the group and by identifiable outcomes such as employment and general community involvement. Of the forty regular participants in 2011, five are now employed and twelve are active in the general community.

What of Siobhan and Mary? Siobhan eventually gained the confidence to successfully study for a degree. She now has a full-time job and a mortgage. Mary, because of a very interrupted education, had been unable to read and write. This was rectified and she now has a part-time job. To quote Mary, “Waterford Social Befriending has filled a gap in my life; I now have the courage to go places". This succinctly summarises all of our aims and objectives for the next decade.

Members of the Waterford Befriending Group at their annual Christmas party.

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Members of the Waterford Befriending Group on their boat trip as an example as one of their many outings.

Borderline Personality Disorder Ireland

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a term given to a psychological condition with a collection of features. Although the earliest descriptions of people with borderline disorder appear in the medical literature more than 3,000 years ago, it is only since its inclusion by the American Psychiatric Association in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders in 1980 that professional and scientific interest in the condition has soared and continues to grow.

Individuals with this condition are people in great pain who are struggling to survive however they can, and they often unintentionally cause great pain for those who love them. One of the reasons for this is that they have great difficulty regulating their emotions and are prone to extreme mood swings often with seemingly little provocation, which can leave family members and friends confused and bewildered. University of Washington Psychologist Marsha Linehan, one of the world's leading experts on BPD, describes it this way: Borderline individuals are the psychological equivalent of third-degree-burn patients. They simply have, so to speak, no emotional skin. Even the slightest touch or movement can create immense suffering. Triggers for their mood swings include events that make the borderline feel either rejected, criticised, or abandoned. For example, if they leave a call for a friend and do not receive a call back, this may trigger thoughts that the friend has abandoned them. They find the distressing emotions that result difficult to tolerate, and in an effort to cope with this will often engage in a number of self-destructive behaviours such as self-harm (such as cutting, biting and scratching).

Eating disorders as well as substance abuse disorders are also very common

amongst people with this disorder. Owing to their poor impulse control, they may also engage in other reckless behaviour such as excessive spending, gambling and substance abuse. People with borderline personality disorder also have difficulty in interpersonal relationships which causes problems in many areas including work, family and social life. Saddest of all is the fact that 10% of people with this condition will commit suicide.

International research indicates that an estimated 2% of the population meet the diagnostic criteria for BPD, (although new research indicates this figure could be even higher) which in Irish terms means that potentially there could be up to 90,000 people suffering from this condition. Despite this fact, the situation in Ireland for borderlines up to now is that they have had to suffer in silence, and only seem to come to the attention of society when they turn up at Accident & Emergency Departments after an episode of self-harm or become involved in the criminal justice system due to their behaviour.

Due to the lack of any support for borderlines and their families struggling with this condition in Ireland and out of the overwhelming need to provide information, advice and support, Borderline Personality Disorder Ireland was set up.

In December 2011, Borderline Personality Disorder Ireland launched a new website for people with BPD and their loved ones. The website includes Community Forums for people with BPD, their families and friends and since it started their membership has grown quite steadily and as well as people with BPD, their members include partners, ex-partners, sisters and mothers of people with BPD. For their BPD members they provide information on getting help and accessing services and through their community forums, they offer help and support as well as a means for BPD members living in Ireland to talk to one another and share their experiences and offer each other support. For families or loved ones of a person with BPD, they offer advice on dealing with the challenging behaviour that borderlines exhibit, as well as offering advice and information on services and support that they can avail of for themselves. The community forums include a live “chat-room” were several members can have a 'real-time' conversation and often this is used to hold online meetings for different groups of members. In addition to their

aims of providing information & support, Borderline Ireland are also actively involved in advocating for their members and raising awareness of BPD in Ireland in general.

Since they set up in 2011, Borderline Personality Disorder Ireland has received a great response and amazing support from other voluntary groups working in the mental health sector like Mental Health Ireland and state agencies such as the Health Research Board and the National Suicide Research Board for which they are very grateful and we look forward to continuing to work with these organisations in the future.

For further information please see contact details below:

Website: www.bpdireland.org Community Page: www.facebook.com/bpdireland.org

Administration Team: [email protected] YouTube Channel: bpd2012

Queries to: [email protected]

L-R: Patrick McCarthy and Brendan Noone members of the administration team of BPD Ireland.

A New Partnership Between MHI and LGFA

Mental Health Ireland (MHI) and the Ladies Gaelic Football Association (LGFA) are delighted with the new partnership between the two Associations with the aim of promoting Mental Health Awareness in Ireland.

Brian Howard, CEO, MHI and Helen O'Rourke, CEO, LGFA at the Launch of the partnership.

Working Together to Build ResilienceThe LGFA and MHI will be increasing awareness of mental health issues and preventative steps through 'Gaelic4Mothers & Others', an LGFA development initiative and 'Building Resilience Together,' a MHI awareness initiative.

In 2010, Mental Health Ireland launched an initiative entitled 'Building Resilience Together' as a means of informing all age groups of society of the importance of developing individual and community strengths that will help people to cope with and bounce back from the challenges and setbacks that life presents. 'Gaelic4Mothers & Others' began in 2008, with the aim of providing a pathway for all women in Ireland to get involved in Ladies Gaelic and to facilitate a development of community spirit and interaction.

Three of the cornerstones of 'Building Resilience Together' are signing up for and getting involved in activities in your local area; staying connected with family, friends and community; and doing things that make you laugh and feel good. All of these actions will improve an

individual’s well-being and their sense of connectedness to those around them.

The ethos of 'Gaelic4Mothers & Others' mirrors the ethos of the Building Resilience Together initiative. 'Gaelic4Mothers & Others' is a recreational form of Ladies Gaelic Football that focuses on getting women who are usually on the sidelines more involved in their local club and community. However it is not only about getting women physically active but more importantly getting them to engage with other women in their area. The social aspect of 'Gaelic4Mothers & Others' and the support network it creates for women is just as important as the physical exercise.

At the launch of this joint initiative, Brian Howard, CEO, Mental Health Ireland stated that “I can think of no better way of providing a good example of Building Resilience than through participation in the 'Gaelic4Mothers & Others' initiative. The Building Resilience programme provides 10 tips to build resilience. The majority, if not all of these tips are activated through participation in the Gaelic4Mothers project.”

Helen O’Rourke, CEO, Ladies Gaelic Football Association stated that “The LGFA are delighted to join in partnership with Mental Health Ireland. From the feedback we get from participants, one of the biggest positives reported is just how much they enjoy 'Gaelic4Mothers & Others' and how it actually changes their lives. Through 'Gaelic4Mothers & Others', Irish women are much more physically active, much more involved in their local community and have a much better support network of women in their locality.”

For further information please contact Treasa Hanniffy at [email protected] or Cliodhna O'Connor at [email protected] or checkout the websites www.mentalhealthireland.ie or www.ladiesgaelic.ie

Your Mental Health is Your Wealth

Youghal Ladies Football in partnership with Mental Health Ireland and the community and people of Youghal in Co.

Cork went on a journey of exploration with the Building Resilience theme on the 12th April 2012. The night had the focus of providing an interactive workshop by Mr Ted Tierney to members of clubs and the wider community on the theme of Building Resilience and mapping local services to the general population.

The Process: Youghal Ladies Football is in its second year of existence and after a successful first year wanted to do an event off the field that would have an impact on the wider community for all the right reasons. At our AGM last December I discussed an article I saw on the PEIL LFG magazine on the theme “Building Resilience”. I was excited about doing something in this area and it laid the foundations for the planning of such an event. It was important that anything we do affects not just us but may lay the foundations for us to think differently. The planning began in December 2011 and quickly gathered momentum with Amy O'Shea, Cork winning Captain, taking a strong lead with the club in this area. Amy has had a lot of injury throughout her career as a player and minding herself during these times was the focus of her input. The importance of Mapping Services for people is also crucial for any community in this climate, so we began to make contact with services and invited them along to this event with the purpose of providing information on what they do and how they do it!!

Ger Motherway, Chairman of the Youghal GAA; Diarmuid McGowan, GAA Munster Council ASAP Officer; Catriona Hill, Chairwoman Youghal Ladies Football; Cliodhna O'Connor, Urban Pro-gramme Officer LGFA; Gordon Kinsley, YLFC Secre-tary; Michael Twomey, Director of film 'Town out of Time'; Ted Tierney, Deputy CEO Mental Health Ireland and Amy O Shea, Cork Ladies Football Captain 2011.

The EventThe Event was a huge success with over 170 people in attendance and 10 organisations present informing the community on what they do. The theme 'Resilience' is something made very simple and how Youghal Ladies Football (and partner bodies) can protect and promote 8

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positive mental health and wellbeing to young females that play our games in our community. Amy O'Shea was echoing my own thoughts after the evening …”You are one club providing this event, can you imagine 10 clubs in East Cork doing it and what the knock -on effect would be?”

The Future The importance of been involved with such a positive event and engagement with Mental Health Ireland needs to be echoed to other clubs across the country. This is in line with the thoughts of Amy O'Shea and other clubs becoming involved in something similar. This is fundamental to getting us to think differently around these issues and possibly challenge how we think and feel, especially in these hard times we find ourselves in. I would strongly advocate this type of an event for the wider community of Ladies Gaelic Football.

“You Alone Can Do It but You Can’t Do It Alone”

Is Mise, Gordon Kinsley, Secretary, Youghal Ladies Football.

Brussels Trip 2012 - Summerhill College, Sligo

Summerhill’s team arrived in Brussels on the frosty morning of February 12th. After depositing our cases at the conveniently placed Ibis Hotel opposite the Gare du Midi station, we took the Metro to our first sight, the uniquely designed Atomium monument. The Atomium, regarded as the symbol of Brussels, was originally built for the 1958 Brussels World’s Fair. The Atomium’s nine interconnected stainless steel spheres form a giant Bohr diagram of an atom, hence its name. We explored the inside of each sphere with great curiosity, marvelling at all the facts and figures of this impressive structure, and enjoyed a perfect panoramic view of the city from the topmost sphere, almost 100 metres above ground. On coming back down to earth, our group enjoyed a meal of fine Belgian cuisine and we then returned back to base. Later that evening, we admired the superb architecture of the Grand Place Square as we went for our first evening meal in Europe’s capital.

Sitting in the seats in EU Parliment from L-R: Ki-eran Blake, Anna Ogarek, Cian Tuohy, Eammon O Sullivan, Fr. Gerard Cryan, Barry Brennan, Rachel Reilly and Thomas Endersby.

The next day, we set off early to be in time for our tour of the European Parliament. This was very kindly organised for us by Marian Harkin MEP, whose son John and her Assistant Edwina provided us with an interesting and insightful look at the workings of the Parliament, sitting in Strasbourg at the time of our trip. It was fascinating to see the chambers where sessions are held and new motions proposed and debated almost every day, right at the heart of the European Union. We considered it a great experience to see the corridors of power where our elected representatives make so many vital decisions, affecting millions of people across Europe. We then had a look around the recently opened Visitors’ Centre, The Parliamentarium, which provides insight into the functioning and history of the European Parliament and other European institutions.

L-R: Barry Brennan, Thomas Endersby, Fr. Gerard Cryan, Cian Tuohy, Rachel Reilly, Eammon O'Sullivan and Kieran Blake.

Of course, no journey to Belgium would be complete without at least a few hours in the little town of Bruges, made slightly more famous recently by Irish stars Brendan Gleeson and Colin Farrell in their comedy film, In Bruges. With its grand medieval churches, narrow little streets and alleys, and, most importantly, plenty of chocolate shops, Bruges did not disappoint at all. In the Choco-Story Chocolate Museum, our group discovered the long process of the journey from cocoa bean to supermarket

shelf, sampled delightful free tastes and observed an expert chocolatier mould a slab of chocolate for an audience eager to taste her work. On leaving the museum, we purchased more essential supplies of Belgium’s most successful export from some of the shops dotted around the picturesque town, and returned to Brussels for our final meal on St Valentine’s Day evening.

L-R: Thomas Endersby, Kieran Blake, Cian Tuohy, Barry Brennan, Fr. Gerard Cryan, Eammon O'Sullivan and Rachel Reilly outside EU Parlia-ment Buildings.

Summerhill’s team would like to thank all involved in making our trip to Brussels so enjoyable, but special thanks go to MHI’s representatives, Anna, Rachel and Éamonn for all their help, patience, and good company during our three days in Belgium, and of course to our team’s coach, Fr Gerard Cryan for leading us to the All-Ireland title, without which we could never have had the opportunity for a great trip which leaves such fond memories.

Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP)

In the short time since its inception WRAP Ireland has been making a difference in the way we approach and deliver mental health recovery services within our communities. Formed by Liam Minogue who credits the WRAP programme to his own personal recovery journey and based on the work of Mary Ellen Copeland, WRAP Ireland offers a series of presentations that puts you in the driver’s seat of directing your own recovery.

Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP) was developed by a group of people who experience mental health challenges. These people learned that they can

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identify what makes them well and then use their own wellness tools to relieve difficult feelings and maintain wellness. The result has been recovery and long term stability. Your WRAP program is designed by you in practical, day to day terms and holds the key to getting and staying well. It does not necessarily replace traditional treatments and can be used as a compliment to any other treatment options you have chosen.

In developing your own WRAP, you’ll identify the wellness tools that will most benefit you and will learn how to use these tools when needed, every day or when you have particular feelings or experiences. WRAP helps you monitor and relieve uncomfortable and distressing feelings and behaviours and identify your best course of action. WRAP planning also includes Crisis Planning (an Advance Directive) that lets others know how you want them to respond when you cannot make decisions, take care of yourself or keep yourself safe, and a Post Crisis plan to guide you through the often difficult time when you are healing from a crisis.

WRAP is developed by you. You choose who assists and supports you, whether they are family, friends or health care providers as you work on your own plan. WRAP has a broad applicability. It has been found to work well for people who have other medical conditions and life issues and as a framework to guide interpersonal

relationships, Peer support groups, agencies and organisations.

Some of us have no awareness yet as to why we hurt or how we can help ourselves when we do hurt, and some of us are exploring more of what gets in the way of feeling hopeful and connected. In a WRAP group you are supported by peers in a safe environment as you learn more about yourself and take charge of the situation through Action Plans. A WRAP Recovery Educator understands and respects that your plan is yours and needs to be expressed in whatever way feels the most appropriate for you, e.g. written, photographs, poetry, collage ,painting verbally etc.

WRAP Ireland offers a series of presentations of Mary Ellen’s work that puts you in the driver’s seat of directing your own recovery. We facilitate a series of one, two and three day workshops on Mental Health Recovery and Personal Wellness through the Wellness Recovery Action Plan.

WRAP Ireland also offers Facilitator Training to those who meet the qualifications necessary per Mary Ellen Copeland. Many people are interested in becoming WRAP Recovery Educators and presently WRAP Ireland is the only Irish totally Peer Based group that does this work. Believing we have a responsibility to our peers, our curriculum includes the standard 5 day facilitator training but then goes beyond that by integrating a WRAP Practicum as well. Upon completion of the 5 day training and learning the curriculum, WRAP Ireland Advanced Level Facilitators continue to work with each of you for a period of time as you sharpen your facilitator skills including how to give support to members, how to answer challenging questions, how to be inclusive and how to take care of yourself while doing this work. Facilitating a WRAP group is different than leading other kinds of groups because of the Peer perspective and guidelines.

WRAP Ireland are one of the benefactors and played the leading role of the development of Emotions Peer Support Centre in Ennis, Co. Clare. Peer support is a system of giving and receiving help founded on key principles of respect, shared responsibility and mutual agreement of what is helpful. It offers a culture of help and ability as opposed to a culture of illness and disability. Peer support allows people to think creatively and non-judgementally about the way

they experience, and make meaning of their lives. The primary goal is to responsibly challenge the assumptions about mental health and wellness and at the same time support individuals to enable and empower them to make changes and decisions to enhance their lives.

Emotions Peer Support Centre aims to empower persons in their physical, emotional, spiritual and mental development through generating an open, non-judgemental environment. The Centre aspires to facilitate both individuals and groups in their respective challenges to develop; through peer support, social skills, personal development, self-recovery and well-being in their daily lives . The Centre aims to reach as many of the population as possible living in the community who are experiencing mental health difficulties or who are at risk through social isolation, family circumstances, disability or unemployment. WRAP Ireland is also committed to bringing WRAP to people who are often forgotten about, by working with our peers in those communities and making training available through our scholarship programme.

For more information please checkout the website at www.wrapireland.ie or email [email protected].

Nosce te IpsumKnow ThyselfBy Lisa Butterly

Size: 152cm x 335cm (60in x 132in) Medium: Acrylic paint on canvas.

This painting is the first of a series of three original paintings. In the series, I try to develop my understanding of selfhood using a limited palette with contrasting light and dark areas. This particular piece

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was made over a fourteen month period and completed in early 2012.

The theme explored is the perception and presentation of self. The idea for this series came from my personal view that we live in a society where it is easier to define rational selfhood by observing and describing the signs of irrational behaviour in others. We continually claim that intellectual capacity is exemplified in those who show reason and calm, those who have knowledge and academic rigour. We view mental illness as the aggressive and persistent antithesis to this discourse. The main question I ask is- How can art practice help illustrate selfhood in response to these issues?

Anyone interested in purchasing this unique piece of art can contact Treasa Hanniffy at [email protected] or 01-284 1166 for further information.

So What Do You Think?A Guide for the Teenage Mind

Irish author and teacher, Clair Swinburne, recently received Honourable Mention at the Los Angeles Book Festival for her book on positive mental health entitled So What Do You Think?: A Guide for the Teenage Mind. When maths teacher, Clair, ran an innovative transition year module on Personal Development, she received such overwhelmingly positive feedback, that she decided to write the content of

the course down in the form of a book. And so, So What Do You Think? was born.

The book is an inspiring psychology guide for teens offering insights into how to get your mind working for you rather than against you. Clair helps readers understand the natural workings of the mind and uncovers interesting facts about what affects our reality to provide insights into how to achieve positive results in life.

So What Do You Think? examines the attitudes, outlooks and mindsets that produce success in life and how the mind can impact your behaviour, your reality, the things you attract into your life and your body. This analysis provides a greater understanding of how to look after your mind and it gives you a much better knowledge about what works for you and what doesn't.

Using anecdotes and humour, Clair helps you learn new perspectives and strategies, which will improve your well-being and produce more positive attitudes and results. The book gives a much deeper understanding of how and why positive thinking makes such a difference to your life. The undeniable results and research which Clair provides, makes it clear how to change your perspectives in order to get the best results for you.

The book consists of two sections. The second part of the book includes 10 practical techniques and strategies so that readers really understand how to put into practice all that has been covered in part 1. This gives the reader really clear guidance on how to start improving their mental health now.

Clair, a master practitioner of Neuro Linguistic Programming, has over a decade of experience working with young people and has worked for many years as a Pastoral Leader and a mentor both in the U.K. and here. Speaking about the book, Clair says;

“I felt empowered to write the book as I am so passionate about positive mental health and empowering young people. Although there is great work being done promoting an understanding of mental health and eliminating the negative associations surrounding it, there is still limited guidance for young people (or adults) on exactly how they can look after their mental health. My book aims to address this. I’ve been teaching the course over three years now and the beauty about the book is that the content has already

been tried and tested on young people with great response and feedback.”

So What Do You Think? is priced €9.99 and is available from most bookstores nationwide. It is also available online from Amazon and www.clairswinburne.com. Proceeds from each sale of the book are donated to ReachOut.com. ReachOut.com is a service that aims to provide quality assured mental health information and shares inspiring real life stories by young people to help other young people get through tough times.

"After reading this book I had a whole new outlook on how to handle difficult situations. My mental attitude became much more positive just from following Clair Swinburne's guidelines. Full of valuable life information and inspirational quotes, this book is definitely worth the read!" S. Quinn, Teen

"I think that this book has totally changed my outlook on life, I thought the book was enjoyable, humorous and extremely interesting, I think every teenager should take the time to read this book.." L. McCarthy, Teen

"An excellent book that every family and school should have on their book shelf. It is a clear, concise and practical guide on how to be happy and to take care of your mental health. The book is written so that teenagers can easily digest the concepts and apply the techniques. It provokes you to think in a different way and to challenge your inhibiting beliefs. It is obvious the author is passionate about her work and the welfare of young people. I wish I could give this book to my teenage self. As an educator now, I will be encouraging my teenagers to read this inspiring gem.” L. Horgan, Teacher & Parent

Author Clair Swinburne.

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Launch of “A Start-Up Guide for New Clubhouses"How to Create Contexts for Recovery in Mental Health Services

Minister Kathleen Lynch was recently invited by the HSE’s EVE Clubhouse Forum to Rainbow Clubhouse, Ballyfermot to launch their practical Start-Up Guide to support those interested in establishing the highly successful Clubhouse model of service.

Clubhouse is a member-led style of service that was specifically designed by people who experience mental health difficulties to create contexts for recovery in their own community. A Vision for Change 2006, our national mental health policy advocates the establishment of recovery-oriented services like Clubhouse to create contexts for recovery where the values base holds that “recovery is possible”. This shared optimistic vision for the Clubhouse member, their family and their community is a major part of addressing stigma, promoting social inclusion and affecting the paradigm shift required to achieve the ambitions outlined in 'A Vision for Change'.

Across EVE there are now six Clubhouses in Newbridge, Ballyfermot, Clondalkin, Coolock, Blanchardstown and Cabra with three more run by the HSE in the North West in Sligo, Castlebar and Ballina and interest growing on a daily basis. In response to the numbers of visitors received and the levels of interest in recovery oriented services like Clubhouse, the EVE Clubhouse Forum drafted a practical guide which members stated they hope will “provide a useful and practical resource to those who wish to establish new Clubhouses and change the way community services are delivered to people who use the mental health services.

From our own experience, Clubhouse is different, it gave us back control, our own say in our own lives, many of us now are living a full life in our local community, attending courses, working, socialising again all with the support of our Clubhouse. We have learnt to hope again for our futures”.

Speaking at the launch Minister Kathleen Lynch said “Recovery is about empowering people to regain control of their lives. What I particularly like about the Clubhouse model is its value base which holds that “recovery is possible”. I like the fact that it is a non-medical model which sees the person and not the illness”. The Minister continued “Getting more communities involved in starting up the Clubhouse model in their area will undoubtedly help break down barriers, reduce stigma and help people work towards recovery and regain their independence”.

The guide captures many of the lessons learnt by EVE over the past thirteen years in establishing their Clubhouses. Dr. Margaret Webb, General Manager of EVE said: “we know that the radical shift required to deliver recovery-oriented services happens in Clubhouses because a re-balancing of power occurs with authority shifting back to the member. At its core, the empowerment ethos encourages members to take ownership of their Clubhouse and adopt meaningful roles. This succeeds in building a strong culture of peer support, builds self-esteem and self-control and ultimately leads to enhanced quality of life. The re-alignment of power and personal responsibility can prove challenging for service users, staff and providers but we guarantee, it’s worth it”.

Clubhouse is a quality assured international model of service and has been endorsed by the Mental Health Commission (Annual Report 2002), the NESF in their report on Mental Health and Social Inclusion 2007, the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA) for their register for evidence-based practice on the basis of outcomes achieved for employment, quality of life and recovery and The Day Service Review Group (New Directions 2012).

EVE is a programme within the HSE, whose primary ethos is to provide programmes for adults who experience mental health difficulties, intellectual difficulties, Asperger’s Syndrome and physical and sensory disabilities. We do this through our network of vocational, rehabilitative and Clubhouse services in 21 locations across HSE Dublin North East and HSE Dublin Mid-Leinster regions.

For further information please contact: Dr. Margaret Webb, General Manager, EVE, [email protected] or call 087-259 7852.

John Baker, Margaret Webb and Michael McCarthy at the launch.

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Jigsaw Galway/Roscommon...an Update

Mental Health Ireland is delighted to be associated as one of the core partners in the Jigsaw project in Galway/Roscommon.

The integration of Roscommon Jigsaw into the project is further evidence of the vision and innovative thinking behind this best practise model of Youth Mental Health.

This innovative project is going from strength to strength. It is now firmly established as the benchmark for delivery of Youth Mental Health Services in Ireland. The project has been developed by the partners in consultation with Young People at every step of the way. This has proven to be the core of the project, listening to Young People on their thoughts, opinions and suggestions on how the project should be developed and delivered.

The other essential element of the success of the project is the extraordinary commitment and dedication of the staff. This talented team has gone the extra mile at all stages of the project development to ensure the delivery of high quality care and information to the Young People of County Galway.

MHI is committed to the project and we look forward to the time when each county in Ireland has its own replica project.

Ted Tierney,Deputy CEO, MHI.

(L-R) Martin Rogan, HSE, Bob Illback, Headstrong, Ted Tierney, Mental Health Ireland and Clare O'Neill, Jigsaw Galway.

Developments during 2012:

• Jigsaw Galway moved to larger and more prominent premises, which is closer to public transport and Eyre Square. The new premises were launched by An Taoiseach, Enda Kenny in July.

• There has been a steady incline in the service use since the move.

• There has also been an increase in self (+8%) and parental (+4%) referrals since the move.

• Jigsaw Galway promoted the service to senior cycle students in 16 Secondary Schools and Youth Reach Centres throughout the city and county.

• A network of service providers was developed in Tuam, with the aim of improving local access to supports and services for young people living in the area.

• ‘Jigsaw & Friends’ a local access service was established in Clifden for young people living in North West Connemara.

• Over 2,500 people attending events organised by 15 other community groups and services in the Training Room of Jigsaw Galway.

• Jigsaw Galway’s annual Community Cycle was held for second time and raised €10,000 for the service.

• A local company Avaya raise €6,000 for Jigsaw Galway by organising a Giant Jigsaw fundraiser.

• Staff completed training in Cognitive-Behaviour Therapy and Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction.

• Staff members wrote weekly columns on positive mental health for the local paper from June to December.

(L-R) An Taoiseach Enda Kenny and Marie Hehir, Jigsaw share a jovial moment during the Launch of Jigsaw Galway.

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Mental Health Matters at the Volvo Ocean Race Galway

The HSE Mental Health Service in Galway in conjunction with See Change had a unique campaign to promote positive mental health and working to reduce stigma through the “Mental Health Matters” campaign. The campaign was showcased during the Volvo Ocean Race from Saturday 30th June to Sunday 8th July 2012.

With an estimated footfall of 800,000 people, the Volvo Ocean Race presented an ideal opportunity for HSE West’s Galway Mental Health Service to promote mental health in a positive light. Over 15,000 people supported the campaign by wearing a green ribbon, which is the symbol of this campaign or they visited the tent and left a positive message on the virtual wall.

Positive wall of Mental Health Matters Campaign at the Volvo Ocean Race in Galway.

Throughout the week there were members of the public, celebrities, sports people and politicians all pledging their support to the campaign.

Some of these included the following;

• The President of Ireland, Michael D Higgins.

• An Taoiseach, Enda Kenny.

• Galway Hurlers, Joe Canning and David Collins with the Liam McCarthy cup.

• The Kanyu Tree, Oisin and Daniel Cluskey.

• Heineken cup – The Connaught Rugby players

Galway sports stars support Mental Health Matters. Pictured L-R: David Nolan Connacht Rugby, Finian Hanley, Galway Football Captain, Brian McClaren, Galwegians Rugby Club, David Collins Galway Hurling Captain and Andrew Browne, Connacht Rugby.

The campaign co-ordinators were delighted to be working in partnership with the many local and national voluntary and statutory mental health agencies who do such great work including;

• Jigsaw• Headstrong• National Office of Suicide Prevention• Shine• Aware• The Samaritans• Mental Health Ireland• Amnesty• NSUE• Console• SOS• NUIG• Positive Mental Health Galway

Funding has been provided by RAPID Ballinasloe, Galway County and City Councils, See Change, HSE West and the Nursing and Midwifery Planning and Development Unit, Merlin Park.

Ciaran Lynch, Galway Mental Health Services stated that “Our core message remains that mental health problems can affect 1 In 4 people, can affect anyone at any time and are part of being human but if people are prepared to open up, others will listen and respond with empathy. Ultimately, people with mental health problems can and do recover. We want people to know it’s OK not to be OK. We want people to know that there is help out there for them. We want people to talk to someone and let them know if they need some help or support. As mental health practitioners we know that being part of the community and getting support from friends and family is important.”

L-R: Kieran McMahon and Ann Clarke from Ballinasloe MHA , Lorna McManus from Galway MHA, Treasa Hanniffy from MHI, Gerry Blake from Ballinasloe MHA.

For further information on mental health services and support, log on to www.yourmentalhealth.ie or www.mentalhealthireland.ie. For information on Stigma around mental illness and ways to reduce it checkout www.seechange.ie.

L-R: Brian Howard, CEO of Mental Health Ireland,Mayor of Galway City Hildegard Naughton; Ciaran Lynch, Galway Mental Health Service, HSE; Liam Fogarty, HSE West at the of launch Mental Health Matters Campaign.

Eastern RegionMHI Development Officers:Mr. Michael Cummins (Kildare, West Dublin & West Wicklow)Mr. Michael Noble (Dublin South & East Wicklow)

Dublin 15 MHA

Dochas & Dublin 15 MHA held a public presentation on Tuesday, 1st May in Blanchardstown Library. A talk was delivered by Mr. John Longergan on the theme "The Role of a Community in Supporting One Another". Over fifty people attended including members of Soroptimist Dublin.

Dochas & Dublin 15 MHA held an information stand at Blanchardstown Shopping Centre on Friday, 10th February.

Drumcondra & District MHA

A team of ladies ran on behalf of the Association in the Dublin City Mini Marathon on Monday, 4th June. Well done ladies!

Finglas MHA

This MHA are linked with Finglas Mental Health Wellness Working Group to promote positive mental health in the Finglas area. The group are holding a mindfulness workshop in Finglas on Monday, 17th September next. For more information please call 086 2873526.

Kildare MHA

Stress Control Course was held in Naas & Baltinglass during February & March 2012, delivered by HSE Kildare/West Wicklow Primary Care Psychologists with the support of the Kildare/West Wicklow MHA’s to over 120 people. Course commenced in Newbridge during April. This is a very popular method of understanding and learning stress management.

Sound Advice Study and Exam Tips (prepared by Kildare Mental Health Association) & A Young Persons Guide to Feeling Good (prepared by Primary Care Social Work – Kildare / West Wicklow), Two leaflets were sent to all exam students in Naas & Newbridge region.

Tallaght MHA

Tallaght MHA arranged a talk & workshop at Tallaght Library on “Keeping Yourself in Mind” for local service providers held on Tuesday, 31st January. Workshop was delivered by Sheila Russell, Psychologist & Mindfulness teacher. 45 people attended and the feedback was very positive.

WRAP (Wellness Recovery Action Plan) The Association is supporting a WRAP / Mindfulness programme in partnership with Threshold Training. This training will be available to sixteen service users from the Tallaght region. The programme is delivered one morning per week over nine sessions.

Ballyfermot MHA

The Association supports the local Carers Group and its activities. A Cake & Book Sale was held on Sunday, 27th May in St Matthews Hall, Ballyfermot. The event was well supported.

Community Response to Promoting Positive Mental Health: A group has being formed and with the support of the local Partnership a number of events will take place starting with a questionnaire

being sent out to receive feedback on the perceived needs in relation to positive mental health in the community. The first event will be held in September / October.

Dublin West South West Befriending Service. This service is a pilot project during 2012. The South West Dublin MHAs and Threshold Training Network Ltd are funding.

Crumlin & District MHA

Cairde Le Chèile Social Club are planning a trip to visit their twin MHA Ballinasloe for 3 days in early July. The Club meets at Armagh Road every six weeks and once or twice a month on a Sunday for a day trip.

St Loman's MHA

Allotment Project, Clondalkin: The Association pays the rent to South Dublin County Council for an allotment. Services users are involved in a project supervised by the Rehabilitation team. Other requires for this project are funded as required. This project is a great success.

Dun Laoghaire MHA

Rosie, Theresa, Moyna, Eileen, Gorden and others continue to manage an active Association, supporting many activities including an Art Group and a Social Club.

The Social Club has been in operation for 10 yrs and it’s now run by Declan, Anthony and a team of others. They organise all aspects including the ever popular table tennis and snooker tournaments. To secure the future of the Club they are in active negotiations with the local Mental Health Services Management and they are developing a unique initiative that will hopefully help, economically, those who are recovering.

Barter for a Break

So what do you do when you want to take a group away on a break but you have no money???

Regional Express

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That’s the challenge that faced the members of Dun Laoghaire Mental Health Association who run the Troy Social Club in Dalkey.

The answer - You Barter!!

Anthony, Declan, Ed and others linked in with the Glencree Society who operates a holiday facility in the Dublin Mountains.

The deal was if they painted one of the buildings they got a free weekend.

After much sweat and toil it worked. The Glencree Society got their building painted and members of the Troy Social Club got a wonderful weekend break. So successful has the arrangement been that they are doing it again this year.

The hardy group of workers will be painting and renovating in July 2012 and this will be followed by two free weekends that they will use to bring members of the Troy Social Club away on a mini-break.

Well done lads!!

Bray MHA

Ann, Michelle and Siobhan continue their great work. The Social Club is as active as ever with lots of creative and artistic activities taking place every week. The annual holiday took place to Kilkenny and everyone had a wonderful time.

Arklow MHA

The Association looks forward to being an active partner in the 3rd Arklow Youth Mental Health week.

Friends of Vergemount MHA

Brian, Michelle and others continued to promote good mental health practices and to provide small targeted financial supports to enhance the quality of lives of those in need who attend the local Mental Health Services.

Friends of Newcastle Hospital MHA

On the 17th May 2012 at the AGM of the Friends of Newcastle Hospital, Michael Hughes retired. In his final address as Chairperson, Michael thanked the many past and present “Friends” volunteers for their many achievements which had and continue to enhance the quality of life of those using the mental health services at Newcastle Hospital and in the Wicklow Community.

Michael Hughes

He commented on how forward thinking the “Friends” were by helping to develop and continue to support active Community Mental Health Associations in Bray, Wicklow and Arklow as the emphasis moved from Hospital based to Community based care.

Dr. Justin Brophy, Clinical Director of Newcastle Hospital thanked Michael for the invaluable additional benefits he and his Committee had provided the Mental Health Services of Wicklow over the years.

He said that the new plan for the Mental Health Services 'A Vision for Change' provided an environment where the active participation of voluntary organisations like the “Friends” was being encouraged. He announced that in conjunction with the HSE Mental Health Service, he will be working with the “Friends" and the other Wicklow MHAs in the coming years to

develop innovative peer led community support services.

Wicklow MHA

Members of Wicklow MHA - Companions Social Club .

The Companions Social Club is almost 10 years old and was formed as part of Wicklow Mental Health Association. Anna Lee is the Manager of the Companions Group and it has grown from strength to strength over the years under her leadership.

The group meet at Wicklow Scout Hall, South Quay Wicklow Town from 11.00am to 12.30pm every Wednesday morning throughout the year. There are 26 members in the club that include Anna Lee, Hilda, Margaret, Evelyn, Mary, Sadie, Kay, Catherine and Sheila. Members share experiences over tea and coffee and support each other as friends. They have a small library of books and CD’s of general interest.

Anna organises courses in confidence building and self-esteem. Recent courses provided to the group include photography, weaving, knitting, training on the use of mobile phones and the internet.

Anna also organises a range of social events such as concerts and plays. The group enjoy fitness and walking, they are regular visitors to Avondale House & Park and the Brockagh Centre in Glendalough.

Anna and Hilda organise lunches for the club members to ensure that member's birthdays are always celebrated throughout the year. The group are valued members of Wicklow MHA and actively support with fundraising and projects which include Health Promotion Information Evenings and other events organised by Wicklow MHA.

Building Resilience Together ProgrammeWicklow Mental Health Association (WMHA) launched their Building 16

Resilience Together Programme in Wicklow County Council Buildings in September 2011. The programme was developed with the financial support of Wicklow County Council, Friends of Newcastle Hospital and in partnership with County Wicklow VEC, County Wicklow Volunteer Centre and Wicklow Sports Partnership. The primary aim of the programme was to involve the people of Wicklow in the building of stronger personal, family and community links thus improving their community and lifestyle. Wicklow MHA encouraged the people of Wicklow to participate in the Building Resilience Together Programme by becoming involved in and building links with the many organisations in their communities developing friendships and a sense of belonging.

A useful pamphlet with tips on how to build resilience was introduced. The programme was rolled out with County Wicklow VEC, County Wicklow Volunteer Centre and Wicklow Sports Partnership as the initial partners. Wicklow MHA is now working with many community organisations to develop and strengthen their community and build a better future for the people of Wicklow.

Michael Hughes, (Chairman of Wicklow)MHI, Tracy Bunyan, (WSP), Pat Byrne, Simon Harris, (TD), Charlie Burke (WHMA) and Brian Howard, (CEO MHI).

Wicklow Youth Mental Health Launch GR82BYNGCharlie Burke, Chairperson of Wicklow MHA was invited as a guest speaker at the launch of Wicklow Teen Support Groups first Wicklow Youth Mental Health Initiative – GR82BYNG. The aim of their programme of events was to promote positive mental health among young people in their schools through information talks which included students from all second level schools based in Wicklow during World Mental Health Week. An Information Bag was provided for every student, in that bag Wicklow MHA included their Building Resilience Together Programme pamphlet.

Some of the people who attended the Launch of GR82BYNG.

New Mental Health Section Opens at Wicklow LibraryA project aimed at the promotion and nurturing of mental health through reading was initiated by Wicklow Mental Health Association in conjunction with Wicklow Library Service. A new section was introduced at Wicklow Library dedicated to Mental Health and Well-Being publications. The new section provided a valuable resource aimed at promoting positive mental health and reducing stigma. The project has enabled the people of Wicklow to avail of a range of useful self help books in the areas of depression, anxiety, bullying, stress, mindfulness and feeling good. The books were purchased by Wicklow MHA from funds raised in their community which brought their innovative initiative to fruition.

Charlie Burke, (WMHA) presenting Siobhan Jameson, Librarian with books for the Mental Health section in Wicklow Library.

Fingal/ St. Brendan's/ Friends of Kilrock House MHA's

The Associations held their annual party and a good time was had by all thanks to the efforts of Charlie and his supporters. In the coming months the Associations will be developing more local Community links and expanding its Community volunteer base.

Midland RegionMHI Development Officer: Ms Fiona Colgan

Longford MHA

Longford MHA – Initiated his or her own Volunteer of the Year Awards – the first recipient of the 2011 award was Mary Kennedy, Chairperson, Longford MHA.

The MHA were also the grateful recipients of a funds raised from the Shane Brennan St. Stephen’s Day Fun Run organised by the family in remembrance of their son Shane who died tragically at a young age. The race raised €4500 towards the Association. Additional funds were also raised at “The Suits Evening” held by Shane’s friends and by the darts boys in McGowan’s pub in Newtownforbes.

The Monthly Birthday Bash

This monthly celebration is now in its third year and held in various venues on the 3rd Wednesday of each month. The MHA wish to ensure people in our community who may not have family members or friends to remember or indeed to celebrate their birthday in a meaningful way. They ensure a fun get together, birthday cards and gifts for the celebrants; it is promoted through a specially designed birthday card invitation card. Longford MHA members also are welcome and can take the opportunity to meet with each other and make plans for further events and functions.

Tullamore MHA

Mental Health and SportsTullamore MHA were the grateful recipients of a generous donation from Tullamore GAA Strictly Come Dancing Fundraising Project. Through joint planning with Liam O’Callaghan

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Tullamore GAA a tri part mental health awareness project was developed. This included the delivery of a Mental Health Awareness Workshop by Finola Colgan Development Officer Midlands to Club Officers of local GAA Clubs, An Information Campaign on the theme “Mental Health is for Everybody”- the design of a durable Information board containing Tips for Positive Mental Health and a range of local Helpline Numbers and services to help at times of crises. Public lecture delivered by Dr. Niall Muldooney – Psychologist CARI and GAA Gaelic Players Association Counsellor. He spoke on the theme – In sport “Practice Makes Perfect; Soloing, Kicking and Catching and Positive Mental Health". Tullamore MHA were kindly thanked by Liam O’Callaghan for the manner in which the MHA went about delivering a positive message around mental health and looked forward to developing to seeing this initiative extended within other communities.

Mullingar MHA

Mullingar MHA continued their partnership working with Mullingar Soroptimist and supported the local group in promoting the Battle of the Bands and developed a Mental Health Awareness Quiz for students between 13yrs- 19yrs.The aim of the quiz was to heighten young people’s awareness of mental health. Con Gilsenan, the Under 21 Captain of the Irish Rugby launched the Quiz. The quiz was made available to entrants on the www.aisling.ie web site.

Mullingar MHA also supported the Soroptimist in their celebration of International Women’s Day on the 7th March. Finola Colgan, MHI Development Officer Development Officer made a presentation on Building Resilience for the morning and evening session of the day’s celebration.

Birr MHA

Public Speaking Project at Colaiste an tSionnaigh Banagher, Mr. Jim Windsor McGlynn initiated this project to encourage TY and 5th Year students to

develop an interest in public speaking and to learn about mental health. Birr MHA supported this initiative by awarding a prize to the best male and female speaker. All participants are presented with a cert and medal by the school.

Weekend Break. The MHA came up with the novel idea to fund a weekend break for people attending the Out patient Clinic at the Community Mental Health Centre. Each person attending can enter a free draw for this generous holiday prize valued at €400.

The Menlo Hotel Galway is already booked for the annual summer break for service users from the 16th-23rd June.

MHI National Drama Project Expressions – Birr, Mullingar and Longford MHAs are all busy getting their “drama” performance ready for this new and exciting initiative. Birr MHA have engaged Michael Bowler, Drama Tutor who has already commenced working with service users at Birr Community Mental Health Centre and volunteers from Birr MHA in the creation of their performance.

Hear Me See Me – Project - This was the title of the project that was developed by Anne-Marie Kelly on her film documentary on Wally which was launched at the Dunamaise Arts Centre Portlaoise on the 7th May. Finola Colgan MHI Midlands Development Officer was involved with the development and delivery of mental health awareness training programmes for all participants. This involved delivery of Mental Health Matters to the TY Class from Mountrath Community School and an evening workshop on mental health for the Hear me See me project team headed by Anne –Marie.

As a lead up to the launch of the movie Wally the TY class were actively skilled up by professionals in how to produce in Film, Radio and Music as a means of personal expression of feelings just like Wally who is also a tutor on the weekend.

Wally is a well known rapper from the Midlands and he tells it like it is and his life experience with serious mental health issues that brought him to the brink of suicide. Anne-Marie’s original idea was to get Wally’s story on camera after his suicide attempt but as things started going right for him she was brought the story of despair to hope though the development of this initiative Hear me See me, generously supported by Laois Partnership Everybody loves a happy

ending and this story aims to give hope to people who are suffering with depression/addiction. This documentary intends to reach those who the media forget about, the 'real people'. There are no psychiatrists here quoting statistics, no pie charts, this is a man opening up his heart, letting us in to see how he survived and got himself out of the hole he was in. For further information please contact Anne-Marie Kelly, Director at 087 2291370

Portlaoise MHA

41st Anniversary Mass Celebrated in St. Fintan’s Hospital Church on Thursday, 26th April followed by a blessing of Old Cemetery on Hospital Grounds.

From 1832 to the opening of the new cemetery (now called St. Peter and Paul’s) in 1896, deceased patients from St. Fintan’s were buried, without ceremony, in unmarked graves in an area close to the old mortuary. Looking back we acknowledge that these people were not looked after with due dignity in life or indeed in death. A significant redress has occurred in recent years in a project at the burial ground spearheaded by Portlaoise Mental Health Association and aided by the HSE. It is now recognised as sacred ground, a boundary has been erected around the burial ground and a beautiful stone memorial monument graces the cemetery.

The monument was erected by Portlaoise Mental Health Association in association with the HSE. In memory of the men and women of Laois, Offaly, Longford & Westmeath who died in Maryborough Mental Hospital and were not taken home for burial during the years 1832-1896.

Pictured at the blessing of the memorial; Eileen Scott, Carmel Foley (Chairperson), Breda Cooley and Moira Costigan (Portlaoise MHA members), Rev. Stanley Monkhouse, Rector, Monsignor John Byrne, P.P., Rose Walsh and Moira Dowling, (Portlaoise MHA members) and Michael Sullivan responsible for the ground works in preparation-for the erection of the memorial.

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Athlone MHA

Mental Health Matters and Westmeath Rose of Tralee

Aisling Baker, Westmeath Rose of Tralee who presented the students with their 'Mental Health Matters' Certificates.

Aisling Baker the 2012 Westmeath Rose of Tralee who has also qualified for the National Final of the Rose of Tralee, is very interested in the whole are of young people and mental health. She volunteered to participate and assist in the delivery of Mental Health Matters with Finola Colgan, MHI Development Officer to the Transition Year Class in Ard Scoil Chiarain Clara. Aisling also assisted Finola in the delivery of a workshop on positive health and well being for the 6th class pupils of St. Mary's National School, The Green, Athlone. The main focus was to explore with the pupils their feelings and concerns about making the transition from primary to secondary school next September.

For more information visit the website www.mentalhealthireland.ie and check out Mental Health Matters under Projects and Activities.

Athlone Community College – hosted a non- uniform day on the theme “Being Yourself” and shared the funds with Athlone and Mullingar MHAs. Funds have been used to print the www.aisling.ie. Ten Tips for Positive Mental Health leaflet was distributed to each student in the Athlone Community College.

Athlone, and Longford MHA's volunteers, friends and family members are all busy getting ready to “leg” it out in the Women’s Mini Marathon as a fun and fundraising activity for ongoing development of their programme.

North Eastern RegionMHI Development Officer: Mr. Sean McKiernan

Bailieborough MHA

The 11th annual Bailieborough Mental Health Association Essay Project for East Cavan Primary Schools took place recently. The prizes were presented at the Bailie Hotel in Bailieborough on Friday night, 20th April 2012 to a packed house of parents, students, teachers, local volunteers and other members of the local community.

There were over 100 essays. Charlie Parker of Ballybay Mental Health Association and the National Public Speaking Project judged the essays and gave a speech at the function which was also attended by the Chairman of the HSE Dublin and North East Forum, Professor and Cllr. Bill Tormey.

There were 1st, 2nd and 3rd prizes in each school, and an overall winner of the perpetual trophy, a unique hand crafted iron sundial. The title of the essay was “Friendship is cool!”

The school winners were Megan Wilson from the Model School, Ballieborough, Grace Clarke of Killinkere NS, Aoibhin McPhillips from Shercock NS, Fatima Mahi from St Annes Bailieborough, Dale Andrew Thompson of East Knockbride NS, Aaron Robertson of St Josephs NS, Kingscourt and Ben Gormley of Ballinamony NS. Ben won the overall prize.

Cathaoirleach of Cavan County Council and MHI Development Officer Seán McKiernan had the honour of presenting the perpetual trophy to Ben, a student of his own former National School.

Chairman of BMHA Winston Turner and hard working Secretary Audrey Rogers at the prize

giving ceremony.

Ben Gormley being presented as Overall Winner with the BMHA perpetual trophy by MHI Devel-opment Officer Seán McKiernan, also pictured are Chairman of BMHA Winston Turner, and HSE Dublin North East Chairman Prof. Bill Tormey.

Monaghan MHA

Deep Impact! - Monaghan Mental Health Seminar for Mental Health Week 2011Keeping your head above water in difficult times was the theme for Monaghan MHA's building resilience together event.

The Westenra Hotel was the venue for a seminar organised by Monaghan Mental Health Association (MMHA) on the impact of the Recession on Families.

Entitled “Deep Impact!” the seminar saw a range of quality speakers delivering interesting, practical and informative presentations on the issues facing parents, young people and children due to the recession and suggestions on coping strategies in the face of financial difficulties and other pressures.

Speakers included Dr Paul Gaffney who spoke on "Keeping your head above water:

How can psychology help us in 2011?"

Dr. Paul Gaffney is a Senior Clinical Psychologist with the HSE National High Support and Special Care Service, based at Rath Na Nog, Castleblayney, Co. Monaghan. He is a tutor in the School of Psychology, Trinity College Dublin and a Consultant Tutor with the Association for Psychological Therapies in Ireland and the UK.

Mr Michael Mc Ginn is a senior and very experienced Mental Health Nurse and a former Development Officer for Mental Health Ireland in the North Eastern Area. He spoke on “Coping in difficult times”.

Also present were MABS, the Money Advice and Budgeting Service. It is a free and confidential service for people with debt and money management problems.

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With regular clinics in Monaghan town the service is there for anyone who needs it and is a first port of call for many people who are worried about their finances. Monaghan Mental Health Association were delighted with the turnout for this free event, another part of their busy programme of events throughout the year.

Beech Hill Innovation Wins Out at Monaghan Mental Health Art Awards 2012Stunning and Diverse Art Work from Schools in Prestigious New Art Project.

Beech Hill College students were top of the town during March 2012 when they were crowned winners of the newly revamped Monaghan Mental Health Art Project with their video offering. Schools from across the county were invited to participate in the awards and the spoils were divided between schools from Monaghan Town and Clones.

The project, which was aimed at groups or classes up to and including transition year encouraged the creation of a piece of art or sculpture using materials of the artists’ choice. Substantial prizes were on offer including a perpetual trophy and €500 first prize which was scooped on the night by Beech Hill. Largy College and St Macartans College were runners up with Colaiste Oiriall and St Louis Girls Secondary School sharing fourth place.

The purpose of the project was to boost awareness of positive mental health and the role of art or sculpture in interpreting and promoting positive mental health messages. MMHA secretary, Emer Brennan explained that the Committee had decided to revamp the project by focussing more on groups or classes working together.

“The beautiful perpetual trophy was sponsored by the Knights of Columbanus and was presented by their representatives Enda Galligan and Colm Donnelly. We appreciate their support of the project,” she explained.

“The idea was that the students will focus on positive mental health messages and promote them through their collaborative art work. We were also conscious of the input of the teachers and art departments

of the schools and the importance of art in mental health so we decided that the rewards should go to the schools. Our objective is to build on this project annually. We are delighted with the high standard of art submitted from the participating schools. The amount of thought and hard work that went into each piece was clear and impressive. We did not envy our judge, artist Joan Mallon, in her task of selecting the award winners,” she said.

The Beech Hill project was praised for its innovation and for being very thought provoking. Runners up Largy College was considered an excellent group effort with considerable thought, skill and work evident, while St Macartan’s entry was praised for its direct impact and bright positive colours. St Louis Girls School project was a selection of stunning and colourful drawings and Colaiste Oiriall submitted a number of innovative group projects. All entrants supplied a word document or PowerPoint presentation explaining their ideas and how they had worked on their projects.

Support from the schools, teachers and students for the project is greatly appreciated and Monaghan MHA hope to display the impressive art work to the public shortly.

Members of Carrickmacross MHA pictured with local MHI Development Officer, Sean McKiernan at their recent meeting to make final plans for their very successful Annual South Monaghan Primary School Essay Project entitled "What makes me happy".

Pictured front left to right are Mae Cumiskey, Chair and Kitt McBride. Back left to right Marion Marron, Secretary, Sean McKiernan MHI DO and Cllr. Teresa Carolan.

Kells MHA

Kells MHA and the wider community of the North Meath town feel a great sense of loss at the recent death of Marie Cooney (née Tully) of Rockfield, Athboy Road. A trained psychiatric nurse, Marie

was noted for her great empathy, kindness and compassion in her profession, which was not just confined to the work place and indeed many years later she would still enquire about and enjoy catching up with those who had been in her care in times gone by.

Her retirement did not see her becoming any less busy and she devoted great energy to the Kells Mental Health Association, of which she was Chairperson. Many of my predecessors as MHI Development Officer in the North East enquired about her regularly, and she never forget them either - Michael McGinn, John McGuire, and indeed Finola Colgan of the Midlands who once had responsibility for Kells also.

Marie had a great love of home life; Rockfield was a castle to her and her husband Tommy, whom she provided a sterling caring role to since his stroke about 15 years ago. Indeed her nursing care ensured a recovery and quality of life for Tommy for many years that doctors did not anticipate. Rockfield was an on open house for her many nieces, nephews, and her 3 grand children; James, Alan and Neil, all of whom she enjoyed seeing. It was also a great home for friends to call to and I never left without a sandwich or piece of cake and a cup of tea, the price for which was to give a full briefing on the state of the country!

Marie's many fine character traits are carried forward in herself and Tommy's children, Vincent - a psychiatric nurse in London and Julie, who works as a mother and Priest's housekeeper. We shall not see her like again. Let us not be sad that Marie has died, let us be joyful that she lived.

Sincere sympathy to her husband Tommy, children Julie and Vincent, brothers Christy, Paddy and Philip and their children also. We should also remember at this time Patti Manning, Kells MHA Treasurer, whose sister passed away recently also.

Marie loved her annual holiday abroad, and the photo with this tribute shows her in Lanzorote on such a trip.20

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North Western RegionMHI Development Officers:Mr. Bill Vaughan (Donegal)Ms. Rachel Reilly (Sligo/ Leitrim)

Letterkenny MHA

Creativity in Tough Economic TimesLetterkenny Mental Health Association supports positive mental health initiatives in Cara House Family Resource Centre. Since the recession hit there has been an increase in the numbers of people coming along to find something to occupy them, to provide an interest and social interaction. It is sad to see so many people who have worked all their lives in this position.

In February the Centre held an Open Day which was very successful. It provided a chance for people who had never been before to come along and not feel threatened. Since then many more people have just dropped in. Though word of mouth is often the best method of attraction, the Mental Health and Addiction Services also advise people about the drop in room and lunches that are provided for €5. Over time, this has led to a very active group of people coming together, on an almost daily basis, offering peer support and encouragement. For some it has become a second family.

There are a variety of courses that suit all ages and abilities including walking groups, arts and crafts, dancing and computer skills. We have been very lucky to have the support of Bill Vaughan, our Development Officer. He has organised groups of men at the local Skittle Alley and more recently has facilitated Listening Skills courses for people coming to Cara House.

Some of our members having a cuppa on our open day.

Some of our management committee on the open day.

Some children from our afterschool club.

Get Together Inishowen ClubAn active social group of Mental Health Ireland, is the Get Together Inishowen club supported by Worklink HSE North West. Those within the club are from a widespread area of Inishowen, who continue to benefit from the social meetings that are held on a regular monthly basis.

Activities of the group vary throughout the year, including fundraising events such as a local boot sale which has just taken place. A day out at the Balmoral show in Belfast this year is a trip that has been much looked forward to. Also coming up within the community is a talk given by Bill Vaughan on mental health, members attending this are planning to make a good social night of the rest of the evening by making their own three course meal as well as their own entertainment.

Recently members enjoyed a night out at the Millennium Theatre in Derry, to see Grease the Musical which included the

appearance of the much loved Mary Byrne. Dinner at the Encore Brasserie within the theatre was served by waiters in costume and the delicious and plentiful food, gave setting to plenty of chat and laughter. The show was a great success, well performed and enjoyed by everyone. The evening gave a chance to make new, or renew friendships, enjoy the warmth of a large group and feel sociably comfortable and as always, with the social events of the GTI club, it gave a lift to the spirits and a day to remember.

Ballyshannon / Bundoran MHA

The group have been meeting monthly and were delighted to be chosen as one of the recipients of a financial contribution from the Mayor’s Ball which was held in Dorrian’s Hotel in Ballyshannon last December.

The group organised an evening of Positive Mental Health in March because it was felt that the community could benefit from hearing of how to manage the pressures of modern day living and get an idea of some of the services within the local community.

There was a good attendance for the evening and the talks covered a wide variety of topics related to positive mental health, including:

Jigsaw - a youth focused mental health initiative which has recently been set up in Co Donegal. This initiative aims to help improve mental health services in the county for people aged between 12 and 25.

Donegal Town Walking Group – the co-ordinator of the walking group spoke about how it was formed and how often they walk, as well as the benefits that participants say they get from being involved in the group. The photos he showed of various walking trips really captured the joy and contentment of all the participants.

NIAMH - the Northern Ireland Association for Mental Health, is the longest established mental health organisation in Northern Ireland. Someone from NIAMH spoke about what they do in Northern Ireland to help people with mental health difficulties.

Two local people each gave a personal account of having to deal with suicide within their family and battling an

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addiction. These two people were particularly brave to be able to stand up and share something so personal. Listening to their stories really showed just how uncertain life can be on one hand, but how maintaining our mental health can help us get through extremely tough times.

Ballyshannon / Bundoran MHA recently attended the open day of the Solas Programme in Falcarragh, Co Donegal. Solas (Gaelic for "light" also reminiscent of the English word "solace") is a Health Service Executive project designed to engage people who have been involved with the mental health system in outdoor activities. The basis of the program is walking, talking and listening. Based in An Sean Bhearic (The Old Barracks) here in Falcarragh, Co. Donegal, the opportunities for walking are wonderfully varied and attractive. The aim is to restore confidence, break isolation and create a caring listening atmosphere, leading to enhanced life skills. The group were very impressed with the Solas programme and would be keen to see a similar facility in the Ballyshannon / Bundoran area.

Danielle Lyster and Bill Vaughan enjoying the Mayor’s Ball in Ballyshannon back in December.

Open Day at Solas Programme in Falcarragh, Co. Donegal.

Breffni MHA

Breffni Mental Health Association continued to promote positive mental health in our local Leitrim area with various outings, meals and social events during 2011/2012. Some of the more popular and personalised social outings were trips to the local “Classic Cinema Club” for a small group of film fans and a lunch at the beautiful Lough Rynn Castle for those who enjoy the finer things in life! We also held our annual Barbeque in August for the residents of Ashbrooke House in Mohill. Our springtime lunch for the day centre clients in Drumsna and our other social visits were enjoyed by all throughout the year.

Breffni Mental Health Association continued to promote and support the Public Speaking Project in 2012; hosting the first round of the regionals where Lough Allen College met some very tough competition from Mohill Community College. No doubt this round proved to be an excellent preparation for the eventual All Ireland Winners, Lough Allen College during subsequent rounds and the final in Trinity College at the end of March. We were proud to be associated with such impressive young people; they have really taken the time to learn and communicate the importance of community, spirituality and mindfulness in maintaining our mental health. In May we held an evening to honour these students and their teachers.

Sligo MHA

Sligo Mental Health Association decided four years ago to look at the possibility of setting up a befriending programme. After carrying out some research they discovered that a pilot programme was already up and running for people with disabilities. This programme was coming to an end so rather than the programme being disbanded Sligo Mental Health Association took over the running of this programme.

This is a unique programme in so far as we are combining both mental health and learning disability in the various social activities. This project is proving to be very effective for all involved as research has shown that support and social interaction are vital for people recovering from mental health problems. This befriending programme allows people

to come together for positive supportive relationships and reduce the isolation often experienced with mental health issues.

Our programme started off initially with a meal out once a month where we could have up to 30 people attending. This is very popular as it allows them a chance to choose a restaurant of their choice that is popular with both the younger and older clientele. It also gives them the chance to meet up with friends that may have moved on to another centre, have a meal and a chat and catch up on all the happenings and generally support each other.

Due to the success of our initial monthly outings, this year we decided to expand the programme introduced the “Knappaghbeg/Mental Health Befriending Programme”. This programme runs every Wednesday night in the Knappaghbeg Social Club, Strandhill Rd., Sligo. A wide variety of activities take place e.g.

• Sports and Games• Line Dancing• Disco• Flower Arranging• Dining Out• DVD night• Bowling in the Community• Arts and Crafts and much more

We encourage people to come along meet your friends for a chat and a cuppa, relax and chill out and enjoy a social evening.

Befriending is all about spending time together, giving individuals attention, support and encouragement and above all having fun.

We certainly would encourage other branches to get involved in some form of a befriending programme as we thoroughly enjoy our weekly get together and rewards are immeasurable.

A big thank you to all the volunteers who come along.

A night out at the local bowling alley.

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Some members enjoying one of the many activi-ties that takes place each week.

Be Well Balloon ProjectOne hundred helium balloons helped deliver messages about mental health to the population of Sligo during World Mental Health Week. Sligo MHA marked the beginning of WMHW 2011 by placing these balloons around Sligo town and county. 100 people from a variety of different groups were asked to think on something (person, place or thing) they felt greatly supported and enhanced their mental wellbeing and to paint it onto a helium balloon. Groups included participants from VEC courses, primary and secondary school students, Clubhouse members and users of the Mental Health Services, all of which contributed greatly to the campaign and came up with an interesting range of ideas.

Rachel Reilly, Sligo MHI Development Officer and Ciara Banks, Volunteer of Sligo MHA.

South Eastern RegionMHI Development Officer: Ms. Linda Thorpe

Wexford MHA

Public Speaking: St. Mary’s CBS, Enniscorthy were National Finalists in MHI’s Public Speaking Project. It was a very interesting, educational and exciting journey for the boys. Throughout the project the team succeeded in creating great awareness round positive mental health.

The team consisted of Dylan Groake, Martin Breen, Ross Walsh and Liam Balfe pictured here with their tutor Mr. Jim McGovern.

Tutor Jim Mc Govern is a wonderful supporter year after year of this project. Well done to all concerned. Wexford MHA actively supported the team at all stages of the project, from the local rounds to the final in Trinity College. Wexford MHA is very proactive in the running of this project at local level.

• Wexford MHA held Church gate Collec-tion on the weekend of Feb 11/12th, it was once again very successful. As it is a countywide collection a great number of volunteers were involved.

• A-sy-lum a place of safety or protection – An exhibition of artwork by service us-ers and staff of Wexford Mental Health Services held in Newtownbary House, Bunclody, Co. Wexford and supported by Wexford Co. Co. through the Arts Ability programme in KTAC & the R.T. Unit in St. Senan’s Hospital. A wonderful exhibi-tion which was run by Wexford MHA in co-operation with Wexford MHS. Hundreds of people visited the exhibi-tion over a 9 day period. It was a very successful and empowering event.

• St. Patrick’s Pitch & Putt Club is a hub of activity every Monday morning when 10 – 12 service users participate in the game. This initiative is actively support-ed by Wexford MHA and is co-ordinated by the duo of Pat Murphy and Francis Murphy KTAC.

• Wexford and Waterford Mental Health Services are networking through their respective Activity Units. A Pool Tourna-ment between the two counties and an exchange workshop is taking place in mid May. This initiative is supported by HSE and the local MHA’s.

• Linda Thorpe, D.O. Southeast met with Nessa Childers, MEP on her recent visit to Enniscothy, where she met with local community groups.

Launch of ‘The Gallant Boys and Girls of Glynn - Barntown’John Wickham and Jim McGovern, Co. Authors of ‘The Gallant Boys and Girls of Glynn - Barntown’ one of the oldest G.A.A. clubs in the country. Both John and Jim have a long association with Mental Health Ireland through the National Public Speaking Project. Once again in 2010 – 2011, Jim has brought the C.B.S. Secondary School, Enniscorthy to the National Semi final of the project. Enniscorthy CBS participated in this year’s final also. They won the project outright in 1989.

Photos shows left to right John Wickham, Christy Cooney (President of the G.A.A. who launched the book), Jim McGovern and Joe Casey (Board Member Mental Health Ireland).

Mental Health Ireland acknowledges the important role of The G.A.A. in Mental Health Promotion throughout the country.

Waterford MHA

• Members of WMHA were actively involved in the facilitation of MHI Public Speaking Project.

Kilkenny MHA

• KMHA held their annual Dinner Dance in the Springhill Hotel. Almost 90 service users, families and staff were in attendance. The evening was a great success and enjoyed by all, as the Rock-ies entertained the crowd. Bernie Lynch and Christina Hickey were the chief organisers – well done.

• KMHA members were actively involved in the running MHI Public Speaking Project.

• Link-Up launched the Directory of Services at the Town Hall on Valentines Evening Feb 14th. The event was hosted by Mayor of Kilkenny David Fitzgerald. The event was extremely well supported by service users, voluntary organisations and the HSE. Over 100 people were in attendance. The speakers were Dr. Kelly; Regional Clinical Director Carlow, Kilk-enny and South Tipperary, Milly Ryan;

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Consumer Panel, Anne Barrett; Senior Social Worker HSE and Damien Godkin; NSUE, it was chaired by NSEU. Linda Thorpe, D.O. as chairperson of Link-Up addressed the meeting on behalf of the voluntary organisations.

Valentines night - Launch of Directory of services in Kilkenny by Mayor David Fitzgerald and Linda Thorpe MHI DO and Chairperson of Link up.

South Tipperary MHA

• MembersofS.T.MHAwereactivelyinvolvedintheMHIPublic Speaking Projectbothatlocalandregionallevel.

• CluainTraininggoesGREEN.WhenpeopledineattherestaurantinCluainTrainingCentretheyareunawarethatthevegetablestheyareconsuminghavebeenactuallygrownbytheclients,intheirnewlyacquiredallotments.Thishorticultureinitiativeisahugesuccess.Ithascreatedanatmosphereofwellbe-ingandenjoymentwhilestillfulfill-ingthecommitmentsoftrainingandactivation.Theallotmentshavebeendesignedinsuchawaythattheyareaccessibleforall,usingraisedbedsandcustomisedpathways.SogreatistheirenthusiasmthattheyhavedecidedtoentersomeoftheirproduceintheClon-melGardenShowinJuly.

West Tipperary MHA

• MembersofWestTipperaryMHAwereactivelyengagedintherunningofthePublic Speaking ProjectintheTipper-aryAreawhichcreatedhugeawarenessespeciallyforyoungpeople.

• WestTipperaryMHAarrangedsafeTalk

programmewiththeRegionalSuicideResourceOfficerforthecommunity.Thisinitiativewaswellattendedandverysuccessful.

• ADateForYourDiary:TipperaryCente-naryFestivalisbeingheldovera10dayperiodinJuly.WestTipperaryMHAarebeingactiveparticipantsinthefestivalandhavearrangedaStreetBuskingEventonSaturday7thofJuly.

West Waterford MHA

• Members of West Waterford MHA were actively engaged in the running of Public Speaking Project in the Waterford Area.

• West Waterford MHA is about to go TECHNICAL, with the development of an interactive Website designed to sign-post services. It is under development by the Association and will be rolled out shortly and will be officially launched for WMHW 2012.

Carlow MHA

• Carlow MHA have been very active in positive mental health promotion.

• In January they ran a very successful series of Radio Ads promoting positive mental health, on KCLR which reached a wide audience and created awareness.

• Carlow Mental Health Association brightened up Carlow this St Patrick’s Day with their rainbow themed walk-ing float in the parade in Carlow town. Members promoted the groups logo by wearing rainbow coloured wigs and bright clothes. The group marched with a rainbow banner and large smiles, as one of the members put it ‘we want to brighten up mental health and make people more open to talking about it this year. The group passed out 6 differ-ent types of stickers to the crowds with positive messages about minding your mental health as well as contact details for Carlow Mental Health Association.

Members of Carlow MHA, Brightening up the local St. Patrick's Day Parade.

Sample of beer mats designed by Carlow MHA.

• If you were to visit a pub on the day you would see the beer mats that the group designed the messages printed on the beer mats were ‘Laugh out loud each day’ and ‘allow yourself to be imperfect’ from the Building Resilience campaign. These were produced in the hope that people may think differently this St Patrick’s Day. These beer mats also had contact details for Carlow Mental Health Association. The Group wanted to think outside the box and feel that this was a great success.

• Suicide Awareness Campaign. Carlow Mental Health Association commenced their Suicide Awareness Campaign for 2012 in March with the first of 6 Safe Talk courses, these courses are aimed at youth and sports leaders across County Carlow.

• Book Mark Competition. Education begins with the young and continues for life, and one of our annual projects is a bookmark competition for children in primary schools. The aim this year, as in other years, was to educate children on the importance of having a healthy mind as well as physical well-being in order to develop a holistic outlook on health. Children from schools through-out Carlow competed in a bookmark design competition to highlight ‘talk-ing about feelings’, ‘thinking happy thoughts’ and ‘having fun’. All designs were of an exceptionally high standard, with the overall winner being Colm Bor-derick, Bishop Foley School, Carlow Town. On the 1st March 2500 book marks were distributed to the participating schools across Co. Carlow for World Book Day. This allowed the issue of positive men-tal health be brought into the classroom twice in the academic year. Once in the designing of the book marks and an second time in the distribution of the printed bookmarks.

(Please pull out and keep for future reference)

Information for Local MHA Volunteers

The Charities Act 2009A master reference guide relating to the activities of local Mental Health Associations and Mental Health Ireland

The Charities Act 2009 was signed into law by President Mary McAleese on the 28th February 2009. The Act will only come into force when the Minister for Justice and Equality introduces Commencement Orders for the individual pro-visions and sections. The core elements of the Charities Act provides for a system of regula-tion of and registration of charities operating in Ireland with also the appointment of a Regula-tor to manage and oversee the operation of this system. However, with the election of a new Government in 2011 and the agreement with the European Commission, the European Central Bank and the IMF in relation to the financial management of this countries affairs, the current Government is committed to reducing public service numbers and increasing the efficiency of service delivery with the reduction of a number of State bodies of the elimination of duplication. The Minister for Justice and Equality under which the Charities Legislation, when brought into operation, has made known that the new Charities Legislation must be considered in this context. The position now in the Spring of 2012 is that the bringing into operation of the Charities Act 2009 has been deferred by virtue of the Government pursuing with the agreement of the Troika a more streamlined and cost effective public service.

The purpose of the Charities Act is to reform the law relating to charities in order to:

• Ensure greater accountability.

• Protect against abuse of charitable status and fraud.

• Enhance public trust and confidence in charities and increase transparency in the sector.

In the absence of the full operation of the Charities Act 2009, the current Minister for Justice and Equality – Mr. Alan Shatter, T.D. has encouraged the charity sector to sign up to the Charitable Fundraising Codes of Practice which has been promoted by an umbrella organisation of charities – the Irish Charities Tax Research Ltd. and supported by the Minster for Justice and Equality.

In the absence of the full operation of the Charities Act 2009 and until it will be brought into full operation, Mental Health Ireland is confident that its operational policy in regard to fundraising and general administration of the charity is of a high standard but will take cognisance of and examine the full elements of the Codes of Practice which is supported by the Irish Charities Tax Free Research organisation and the Minister for Justice and Equality. A brief outline of the main principles of the Code of Practice are set out beneath.

Code of PracticeThe principles and guidance set out are intended to be of practical use when organising fundraising. They offer donors and potential donors, clarity on what they may expect from the charity, its representatives (whether voluntary or paid) and its management.

These are general principles and given that each organisational context is different, those responsible in the organisation will be required to use their judgment and to consider how these principles are best applied within their organisation.

The Code of Practice offers a set of overarching principles and guidance about how fundraising should be approached and organised. It thereby complements and builds on the existing legal framework within which all charities operate.

Core PrinciplesRespectThe charity shall respect the rights, dignity and privacy of its supporters, clients and beneficiaries. It shall not put undue pressure on anyone to make a gift and where someone does not want to give or wishes to cease giving, that decision will be respected. The charity will not represent their clients or beneficiaries in a disrespectful way in their promotional activities, and where possible and appropriate, clients or beneficiaries will have an input into the charity’s promotional strategies. The charity will take care not to cause unreasonable nuisance or disruption in its fundraising efforts.

HonestyThe charity will always act in an honest manner and will be truthful in all its dealings. It will answer honestly all reasonable questions about its fundraising activities and fundraising costs and it will do so within a reasonable timeframe.

OpennessThe charity will make information about its purpose and its activities freely available. It will be transparent about who it is, the work it performs and how any support is used. The charity will be accountable and will provide a number of ways whereby those interested can contact the organisation and receive a reasonably timely response. The charity will have a procedure to address complaints, a copy of which will be available on request.

The Conduct of FundraisersFundraisers and fundraising charities commit themselves to the highest standards of good practice and to ensuring that all their fundraising activities are respectful, honest, open and legal.

Board/Trustee and Senior Management ResponsibilityThe ultimate responsibility for meeting the standards lies with the charity’s Board or Trustees and through them with the senior management of the charity. The Board/Trustees and Management are responsible for ensuring that their charity is able to and does fulfil its commitment to best practice in fundraising.

Honest CommunicationCommunication between the charity, the public and potential donors shall be governed by the clear guiding principles.

Financial AccountabilityFinancial accountability goes to the heart of transparency and is a dimension of fundraising and charity management that is understandably of great public interest. It is reasonable to expect that when charity regulation is in place the regular’s remit will focus considerably on financial accountability. Charities that are companies limited by guarantee must

comply with company law and some unincorporated charities voluntarily comply with those standards.

Monitoring and ComplianceTo be meaningful the Standards must be actively monitored and any cases of non-compliance addressed promptly and proportionally.

Summary of the Charities Act 2009The Charities Act 2009 was signed into law by President Mary McAleese on 28th February 2009. The Act will only come into force when the Minister for Justice and Equality introduces commencement orders for the individual provisions and sections. Why do we need a Charities Act?The purpose of the Charities Act is to reform the law relating to charities in order to:

• Ensure greater accountability.

• Protect against abuse of charitable status and fraud.

• Enhance public trust and confidence in charities and increase transparency in the sector.

Defining charitable purposeThe Act includes for the first time in primary legislation a definition of “charitable purpose” which is set out in section 3 as:

a) The prevention or relief of poverty or economic hardship;

b) The advancement of education;

c) The advancement of religion;

d) Any other purpose that is of benefit to the community.

The Act states that a purpose will not be a charitable purpose unless it is of public benefit. Public Benefit is specifically broken down in the Act to include:

• The advancement of community welfare, including the relief of those in need by reason of youth, age, ill-health or disability.

• The advancement of community development, including urban or rural regeneration.

• The promotion of civic responsibility or voluntary work.

• The promotion of health, including the prevention or relief of sickness, disease or human suffering.

• The advancement of conflict resolution or reconciliation.

• The promotion of religious or racial harmony and

harmonious community relations.

• the protection of the natural environment.

• the advancement of environmental sustainability.

• the advancement of the efficient and effective use of the property of charitable organisations.

• the prevention or relief of suffering of animals.

• the advancement of the arts, culture, heritage or sciences.

• The integration of those who are disadvantaged and the promotion of their full participation in society.

Trustee duties, responsibilities and liabilities are set out in the Act and the Act permits the purchase of trustee indemnity insurance by the charity

When will the Act come into law?A time table for the introduction of the Commencement Orders has not yet been published. However some sections of the Act have been commenced, namely:

• Section 2 of the Act which contains the definitions of certain terms used in the Act.

• Section 4 –.Orders and Regulations, which allows the Minister to make Regulations under the Act.

• Section 5, a technical section which provides that expenses incurred by the Minister in the administration of the Act shall be paid out of monies provided by the Oireachtas.

• Section 10, which sets out the possible penalties on conviction for a breach of section 99 (which relates to the sale of Mass cards).

• Section 90, which will grant power to the courts, in the event of proceedings against a charity Trustee , to grant relief to such trustees from personal liability for breach of trust, where it appears to the relevant court that the Trustee acted honestly and reasonably.

• Section 99 – Mass Cards, which makes it an offence for a Mass card to be sold in contravention of the provisions of section 99 of the Act.

Source: Harrington T. (2011) Accounting and Reporting by Charities in the Republic of Ireland. Chartered Accountants Irelandhttp://www.wheel.ie/sites/default/files/Charities_Act_2009_Factsheet.pdf

Establishment of New Institutions• Charities Regulatory Authority - The Act provides for the

establishment of the Charities Regulatory Authority (CRA) which will secure compliance by charities with their legal obligations and to encourage the better administration of charities.

• Register of charitable organisations - The CRA will also establish and maintain a register of charitable organisations. Organisations that are currently recognised as being charities by the Revenue Commissioners will be automatically included in the new register. This register will be accessible by the public.

• A Charity Appeals Tribunal - will be established to which organisations can appeal certain decisions that the Regulator may make in relation to them.

Charities that are companies limited by guarantee will continue to be bound by all the requirements of company law. The Revenue Commissioners will continue to deal with and grant tax exemption status to qualifying charities.

Reporting requirementsThe Act imposes annual reporting requirements on charities. When the Act comes into force, charities will be required to:

• Register with the Charity Regulator;

• Provide Annual Reports and Annual Financial Returns to the CRA;

• Obtain permits for all types of fundraising;

• Provide details of fundraising activities in the Annual Report;

• Follow agreed codes of practice for fundraising from the public.

Fundraising• Both cash and non-cash (i.e. direct debits standing orders

etc) charitable fundraising from the public will require permits from the Gardaí, and only registered charities will be able to conduct charitable fundraising.

• Sealed collection boxes will be the standard requirement for collections in public places and the boxes will have to be display the name and the charity number of the charity ( the Regulator has the discretion to make an exception to the sealed collection box rule to facilitate the making of change for token sellers).

• Charities that fundraise will be expected to comply with non-statutory Statement of Principles for Fundraising (available at www.ictr.ie), and will also be expected to comply with specific Codes of Good Practice for Fundraising when they are developed.

For more information on the Charities Act please see

The Wheel, 48 Fleet Street Dublin 2 Telephone(0) 1 454 8727 Facsimile (0) 1 454 8649 Email [email protected] www.wheel.ie

ICTR (Irish Charities Tax Reform) 85 Merrion Square South, Dublin 2 Phone: (0) 1 6769908 www.ictr.ie

Brian Howard CEO, MHI July 2012

Mental Health Ireland and Garda Vetting 1. Garda Vetting is a procedure through which An Garda is

asked, with a person’s permission, to confirm whether or not that individual has been charged with or convicted of a crime. Employers use the procedure to assess whether individuals’ convicted or charged with abuse or other crimes are offered positions of responsibility for work with children, young people or vulnerable adults.

2. Under the Data Protection Acts information about the commission or the alleged commission of an offence by a person falls within the definition of sensitive personal data. Currently, there is no comprehensive statutory basis which underpins the vetting process. The Office of the Data Protection Commissioner supports the current procedure for managing requests for vetting in this jurisdiction. The procedure is based on the consent of the person to the release of certain types of information held by An Garda Siochana in respect of that person.

3. The Garda Central Vetting Unit based in Thurles, Co. Tipperary is the single point of contact within An Garda Siochana to conduct Garda Vetting of individuals. The Garda Central Vetting Unit conducts Garda Vetting in respect of individuals who are applicants for positions; whether full-time, part-time, voluntary or student placement, within organisations; by virtue of which they may have unsupervised access to children and/or vulnerable adults.

4. Organisations wishing to conduct Garda Vetting in respect of applicants for positions within them must register with the Garda Central Vetting Unit. Registration has been completed in the case of Mental Health Ireland.

5. Following registration with the Garda Central Vetting Unit, the organisation must nominate a liaison person or persons to liaise with the Garda Central Vetting Unit on its behalf. These liaison personnel are known as Authorised Signatories. In the case of M.H.I., the Authorised Signatory is Brian Howard, C.E.O., M.H.I.

6. Authorised Signatories are responsible for the management of all Garda Vetting Applications submitted by their organisation to the Garda Central Vetting Unit and all resultant Garda Vetting Disclosures issued to their organisation by the Garda Central Vetting Unit.

7. The decision to engage in Garda Vetting of personnel as part of normal recruitment and selection practices is underpinned by the imperative to observe best practice in the protection of children and vulnerable adults, to whom personnel within a Registered Organisation may have unsupervised access by virtue of their position within the organisation or affiliated organisation to M.H.I.

8. Operational Overview The following is a brief overview of the established operating

procedures for Garda Vetting:

a) A standard Garda Vetting Application Form is supplied to an individual Vetting Subject by the Registered Organisation.

b) The Garda Vetting Application Form must be fully completed by the Vetting Subject in respect of their biographical and address details. In addition the Vetting Subject must give their written authorisation on the application form to An Garda Siochana to furnish to the Registered Organisation a statement that there are no

convictions recorded against them in the Republic of Ireland or elsewhere, or a statement of all convictions and/or prosecutions, successful or not, pending or completed, in the State or elsewhere as the case may be.

c) Garda Vetting will be conducted in respect of individuals over the age of 18 years, predicated on the written authorisation of the said individual. Garda Vetting will be conducted in respect of individuals between the ages of 16 years and 18 years, predicated on the written authorisation of the said individual and of a parent or guardian of the said individual. Garda Vetting will not be conducted in respect of individuals under the age of 16 years.

d) When the Vetting Subject completes a Garda Vetting Application Form, he/she should return it to the Registered Organisation for onwards transmission to the Garda Central Vetting Unit.

e) It is the responsibility of the Authorised Signatory in the Registered Organisation to ensure that the details provided in the application form in respect of the Vetting Subject are validated before the form is transmitted from the Registered Organisation to the Garda Central Vetting Unit for processing. In the case of local MHA’s, this validation will need to be undertaken at local level and the applicant’s form then forwarded to Brian Howard, C.E.O., Mental Health Ireland.

f) The Authorised Signatory in the Registered Organisation transmits the Garda Vetting Application Form to the Garda Central Vetting Unit for processing.

g) When a Garda Vetting Application is processed at the Garda Central Vetting Unit the original application form and resultant Garda Vetting Disclosure are returned from the Garda Central Vetting Unit directly to the Authorised Signatory who submitted it and to no other person.

h) On receipt of a Garda Vetting Disclosure from the Garda Central Vetting Unit, it is the responsibility of the Authorised Signatory to ensure that the data contained therein are managed within the decision making process established in the Registered Organisation concerned. This decision making process will need to be underpinned by a clear policy on accepting or rejection applications for volunteering to be formulated by M.H.I.

9. Whattodonext? • Itisplannedtoholdaseriesofregionalconsultation

/informationmeetingsatregionallevelinlateSummer/earlyAutumntoclarifyanyissueswhichrepresentativesoflocalMentalHealthAssociationsrequireinformation.

• AlllocalM.H.A.’swillreceivepriornoticeofthesemeetingsanditishopedandindeedencouragedthatallM.H.A.’swillberepresentedattheinformationmeetings.

Brian Howard CEO, MHI July 2012

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Southern RegionMHI Development Officer: Mr. Dan O'Connor

Kerry MHA

Social Housing - Having signed off on the Joint House Management Agreements between the KMHA and the HSE South, 15 tenants took up residency at the new €2.8 million Community Housing Facility at Upper Lewis Road, Killarney on 15th December 2011. The facility is now named Cherryfield House.

Refurbishment works have been taking place over the past number of months on a Community Housing Project at Ardmoniel, Killorglin. The property was purchased at a cost of €240,000 and refurbishment works to the value of €96,000 are currently near completion stage. The current number of units of accommodation provided by the KMHA stands at 61 and this will increase to 65 on completion of the Killorglin Project.

The new look of Cherryfield House.

The roadside view of the new refurbishment of Cherryfield House.

The Association has completed an inspection of KMHA properties throughout the county and has identified a list of refurbishment works that need to be carried out together with obtaining costings on insulation works. When complete, the buildings will be up to the required acceptable standards in relation to insulation and accommodation.

Men’s Shed - A Men’s Shed Project has been established within the former Ross Products Sheltered Workshop building. The Association has allocated approximately half of the factory floor area for the project. Modification works were completed in mid March and the facility is operational since March 20th. A Men's Shed is a dedicated, friendly and welcoming meeting place where men come together and undertake a variety of mutually agreed activities. Men's Shed are open to all men regardless of age, background or ability. It is a place where you can share your skills and knowledge with others, learn new skills and develop your old skills. The men have ownership of the projects and decide their own programme of events. The project, which is under the umbrella of the KMHA, has a significant positive mental health aspect to it where men have an opportunity to socially interact, integrate with others, talk, develop new skills and be occupied. The project also provides an opportunity for former attendees of Ross Products to participate in the variety of activities that are taking place there.

Advocacy - The continued efforts of the Kenmare branch members over the past few years, in their advocating for a Mental Health Day Care Centre in Kenmare may have a positive outcome. Construction work on a new Community Hospital for Kenmare has commenced and it is believed that the development includes the provision of a Mental Health Day Care Centre.

Western RegionMHI Development Officers: Ms. Nicola Morley - Kilmartin (Galway) Ms. Myra Walshe (Mayo/Roscommon)

Clifden MHA

Clifden Mental Health Service received the overall NSUE award for 2011. This is a wonderful achievement as it is a testament to the great work being carried out in the service as evaluated by the service users. One of the staff members who is also a member of the MHA said “In these testing economic times it is wonderful to be acknowledged for the work that we are doing”.

The Clifden MHA continues to be active in fundraising events e.g. coffee mornings, church gate collections, street collections. This year Michael Dolan will be running the Dublin City Marathon in October in aid of the Clifden Mental Health Association. A fundraising drive will be carried out between now and October ably supported by novel fundraising ideas from local members.

Ballinasloe MHA

Dr. Ada English Memorial Prize – Schools CompetitionBallinasloe in partnership with Mountbellew MHA and Ballinasloe Library launched the first year of their new initiative ‘The Dr. Ada English Memorial Prize’. The initiative aims to raise awareness of positive mental health among 2nd years in post primary schools in Ballinasloe and Mountbellew.

There were over 40 entries to the competition and the standard was very high. There were prizes for the top four entries as well as a perpetual trophy for the winning school. These were presented by Senator Lorraine Higgins at an awards ceremony in Ballinasloe Library. Senator Higgins gave a speech on the day about the importance of mental health and young people.

About Dr. Ada EnglishDoctor, politician, feminist pioneer, and one of the first female psychiatrists in the country, Ada English was among the leading revolutionaries of the 20th Century. Over a career span of 38 years she sat in the Dáil, established herself as a leading pioneer in psychiatric treatment and eventually rose to the position of R.M.S. at St. Brigid's Hospital Ballinasloe, two years before her death in 1944. She is buried at Creagh Cemetery, Ballinasloe.

Craft Your Wellness Exhibition / Community Arts Project / TrialogueLast year with the assistance of Kieran Coyne from RAPID Ballinasloe Mental Health Association secured grant funding from Galway Rural Development (GRD) to promote positive mental health projects within the community. In November 2011 to celebrate ‘Year of the Craft’ Mayor of Ballinasloe, Michael Kelly opened a Craft Your Wellness Exhibition in the Carlton Shearwater Hotel to inform the citizens of Ballinasloe what is available to them within the community and present pastimes or hobbies which could enhance their quality of life by getting involved

and staying well. Mr. Brian Howard, CEO of MHI was also present at the opening of the Exhibition.

Senator Michael Mullins launched our Community Arts Project. A wide and diverse range of groups and organisations were invited to produce artworks in conjunction with local artists to portray positive images of mental health and wellbeing. These images are currently on display around the town and at the Railway Station. The collection was also made available in a 2012 calendar. During a brief visit to the event, Junior Health Minister, Kathleen Lynch was pleased to receive one of the artworks entitled wellbeing from the Ballinasloe Mental Health Association. Senator Lorraine Higgins and the Mayor of Galway County, Michael Maher were also in attendance.

Mrs. Jackie Eastwood, Senator Lorraine Higgins, Mr. Brian Howard and Mrs. Valerie Swanwick at the Craft your Wellness Exhibition.

Ballinasloe MHA presents artwork to Minister Kathleen Lynch in Leinster House.

To demonstrate the inclusiveness of the projects we also worked closely with the National Schools in a Crib Making Project which was facilitated by the Creagh Training Centre. Additionally, we provided craft sessions and materials for Ballinasloe Social Services.

Creagh National School attending Crib Project Workshop.

To acknowledge World Mental Health Week on Monday 10th October 2011 we held a Trialogue in Hayden’s Hotel. Trialogue is a facilitated circle of conversation that offers people a unique opportunity to freely and safely share their own experiences and stories or ask questions about mental health. This open approach also offers people the opportunity to observe and listen to gain insight into the lived personal experience of others. The Trialogue is aimed at people working in mental health, people who have mental health difficulties, their carers, relatives or friends and anyone who cares about positive mental health.

Finally to conclude a busy year we organised An Advent Evening with Classical Guitarist John Feeley in St. Johns Church in December 2011.

Trip to Spain!Ballinasloe MHA supported a service user’s trip to Spain this year. In April, a group of 29 service users and support staff from the Galway Mental Health Services went on holiday to the coastal town of Benidorm in Spain. The group enjoyed the Spanish weather and culture and visited some of the local sights. Everyone enjoyed the holiday and lots of new friendships were made.

Members of the group that went to Spain.

In Memory - Ballinasloe Mental Health Association is mourning the loss of long serving member and friend Nancy Cooke. Nancy sadly lost her battle with illness in April. During her many years with the Association Nancy held a number of posts including Secretary and Chairperson. She was always very supportive of the Association’s activities and was instrumental in the erection of a memorial cross in Creagh Cemetery, Ballinasloe, for deceased patients of the local St Brigid’s Hospital. The Association extends its sincere sympathy to Nancy’s husband Cecil and her sons, John and Ivor, daughter Valerie and their families.

Mountbellew MHA

Public Talk for the Community of MountbellewMountbellew MHA was delighted to host a Public talk by Mr. John Lonergan, Former Governor of Mountjoy Prison in Mountbellew Pastoral Centre, Mountbellew, Co. Galway. The theme of the talk will be “Parenting, The Challenges and Rewards “. The event was very well attended with many travelling from the neighbouring towns and villages. The event was thoroughly enjoyed by all.

Galway MHA

Annual Open Garden Event – A sanctuary in a wondrous setting!Once again, Lorna McMahon’s prize winning garden at Ardcarraig, Oranswell, Bushypark, Galway, was opened to the public in on three consecutive Sundays in May in aid of Galway Mental Health Association. This frequently televised garden has raised much needed funds for the Association for more than twenty five years and this year was no exception.

Ardcarraig is an informal garden, set in 5 acres of bluebell woodland, bog, and granite outcrops. A small stream feeds a number of water gardens. There are Japanese style sections, a formal herb garden, in a disused tennis court and a sunken Mediterranean garden. Plants from the Australasian, South African and European continents all thrive in a natural setting and are surrounded by native indigenous hedgerows. There are large collections of Himalayan Primulas, Hostas, and Dwarf Conifers, all of which enjoy the wet climate of the West of Ireland. The garden is written up in a number of books on Irish Gardens and has been televised several times.

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Lorna McMahon's Garden in Ardcarraig.

Galway MHA HousingThey say ‘a mans home is his castle’ - The volunteers at Galway MHA endeavour to make their housing nothing more than just that for anyone who resides there. In recent months, one of the Association’s houses on the West side of the city under went a make over. All parties came on board in the planning stages to ensure all aspects were covered. The residents & staff worked together to create a bright & modern style house. The work was carried out by our ever trusting group of workmen – who without fail completed the job on time & to a very high standard.

The newly refurbished kitchen.

Fingers crossed that the sun will shine all summer in Galway so that the residents at the Galway MHA house in Roscam can enjoy a few BBQs in their newly landscaped garden.

The newly landscaped garden.

Tuam MHA

Tuam and District MHA mark 25 years in existenceTDMHA marked their 25th Anniversary supporting the Tuam community

in October 2011 by officially opening their Information Office at the local Community Centre. This office manned by a community employee administrator and volunteers provides support and information on all aspects of mental health maintenance and provides directions to support services in the district. Since it’s opening in March 2011 it has been an obvious focal point in the town centre supporting various campaigns promoting positive mental health. Some initiatives have included the funding of an Art Therapy series of classes; the completion of classes on disability support and marking the World Suicide Awareness Day with a thoughtful and sensitive memorial event. More recently, the centre has been busy highlighting the 16 days of action raising awareness about domestic gender based violence. An extension to the Information Centre now provides our organisation with a meeting venue and a facility for other groups to use for training or self-help meetings.

TDMHA working with schools to promote positive mental healthThere has been continuing support for local schools also through the sponsorship of a Poster competition on the theme “What makes me Happy”. A vibrant selection of artwork across the range of art, poetry and photography went on display in the Presentation College in October depicting the many routes to maintaining a happy and healthy lifestyle, TDMHA were happy to sponsor the prize giving to the winning students. The annual local rounds of the National Public Speaking Project for senior students was held in the Corralea Court Hotel on Tuesday, 22nd of November. Presentation College qualified for the County Finals.

TDMHA continue to support local employmentTDMHA are the main sponsoring organisation for one of the largest Community Employment Schemes in the County. A total of almost 40 people are employed locally and deployed in support of the local psychiatric care services and many other local voluntary organisations and provide many visible maintenance and development projects within the community. This expanded C.E. scheme has been a win/win project for TDMHA and the local voluntary network since it commenced in 2007. Recent Budget 2011 changes to community employment funding will have a potentially damaging effect on the future viability of many schemes including this one. The materials

and training fund grants have been reduced pending scheme review by over 60%. This runs contrary to policies supporting job initiatives and on her recent visit to open Toghermore Health Campus, Junior Minister of Health, Kathleen Lynch was lobbied by TDMHA to extend the scope of community employment schemes as a route to providing greater employment opportunities for participants. We hope that the potential ongoing added value of C.E. schemes to local communities is not lost in this dramatic cut.

TDMHA thank all who have been a support to our organisation in the past year and appreciate the ongoing goodwill that allows us to continue our support of the community.

TDMHA continue to support Community based initiativesTDMHA have funded the production of a community directory of services by Tuam Family Services. This is considered to be an invaluable resource for local families in need of information on the various support services that exist in the community. The booklet has been in a draft form for many months and following collaboration with RAPID, improvements in content and layout have now brought it to a final print stage and it will be distributed very soon.

Mayo MHA

Continue the development of the Formalised Befriending Project for the County. The new project is based on the Waterford model. Volunteers have attended a training programme and are currently befriending people with mental health problems identified by the HSE. A Management Committee was set up to oversee the project and one of the MHA volunteers is the co-ordinator.

Roscommon MHA

Seminar: Climbing Out of Depression in These Challenging Times. The DO and the local Association organised the seminar on November 17th last. The event was held in the Abbey Hotel and attracted over 200 members of the public. There was massive publicity of the event in the local media. The seminar was organised by all three Associations in the county. The speakers included:

• Carol Hunt, freelance journalist and Columnist with the Sunday Independ-ent. Carol took a personal holistic approach to good mental health to help us cope better and become hap-pier in ourselves particularly useful in times of recession. She addressed two topics; (1) Knowing the difference: The importance of being able to differenti-ate between “The proper sorrows of the soul” and clinical depression. (2) Know thyself: How she coped with se-rious depression by integrating drugs, introspection, counselling, exercise, education and forgiveness to treat the mind, body and spirit.

• Shane Martin is a psychologist dedicated to teaching people how to be healthier and happier. His Mood Watchers Course has been delivered at community venues throughout the country. He spoke with hope and humour in his presentation and had words of wisdom and inspiration for people finding life challenging at the moment. He stated that he passion-ately believed in everyone’s ability to embrace a better quality of life and he outlined ways in which we can har-ness our strengths to cope better.

The Seminar was chaired by well known Shannonside Radio broadcaster, Mary Clare Grealy. The questions and answers session was chaired by Mary Clare and included the Chairman of Castlerea MHA and local GP Dr Greg Kelly. There was a lively exchange during this session. Some members of the audience spoke of their own struggles. The DO, spoke about the great work of all the Associations, in the county. She also invited members of the public to support the local Associations becoming volunteers. Three people signed up as volunteers on the night. The event was covered by the local media and featured two pages on the local paper. The D organised a telephone link in with one of the speakers and Shannonside radio. The DO was interviewed on local radio.

Pictured in the Abbey Hotel at a seminar on the theme of ‘Climbing out of Depression’ were back row: Mary Reilly, Castlerea Mental Health Association; Cllr Michael Creaton, Ballaghader-reen Mental Health Association; Rachel Dunphy, Teresa Duignan, Castlerea Mental Health As-sociation; Mary Claire Grealy, guest chairperson; Mamie Creighton, Ballaghaderreen; Maureen Fagan, Sligo; Eithne Jarrett, Roscommon Mental Health Association; Catherine Kellegher, Roscom-mon Mental Health Association, and Thady Walsh, Roscommon Mental Health Association. Front row l-r: Dr. Greg Kelly, Castlerea Mental Health Association; Carol Hunt, Sunday Inde-pendent; Shane Martin, Moodwatchers; Myra Walsh, Roscommon Mental Health Association and Michael Finneran, Roscommon Mental Health Association.

Mid Western RegionMHI Development Officer: Position Vacant

West Limerick MHA

‘Working together to Prevent Suicide’ Organisers Mary Danaher and Elizabeth Cullinane of the Abbeyfeale & District Initiative wish to thank everyone that attended. Over a 100 people were present. The evening began with Nora Conway from Pieta House and Eimer O’ Neill from Console, lighting two candles in remembrance of those that had lost their lives to suicide. We’d like to take this opportunity to thank all speakers on the night, Mr. Dan Neville, T.D. and President of the Irish Association of Suicidology (IAS) who stated how years ago people met as a community through parish activities and how this level of community involvement has been lost in recent times.

For that reason we’re asking everyone that has a few hours to spare to make yourselves available to your community. Let’s help ourselves. Let’s be proactive find and out how many activities are in your area that you can help out with especially if you are not currently working because of redundancy, unemployment or the family have grown up or even gone away. Let’s lend a hand, revitalise our communities, break the isolation and loneliness in ourselves as well as others.

Dr. John Connolly, Consultant Psychiatrist, Mayo spoke about the warning signs as well as dispelling many myths regarding suicide for example “talking about suicide will only make the situation worse”, so what are we afraid of ?.

International research states talking about suicide provides an opportunity for those in crisis to discuss how they feel, thus reach out and gain appropriate help and support. Dermot Troy of the Limerick Samaritans Branch discussed their service, when it started along with how far they have come with the excellent help of volunteer’s. They still operate a telephone service alongside more modern forms such as email and text support not least face to face support in their drop-in service. We would like to thank Chairperson, Bernie Carroll, Resource Officer for Suicide Prevention with the HSE who noted that we can all break down the walls of denial and stigma by going back to our communities and sharing our new found wisdom and being supportive. A number of questions were asked on the night from the floor, the evening came to a close with tea and coffee.

A number of organisations had information stands where people were able to mingle. Organisations that supported the event were; Accord, Aware, Bodywhys, Console, Grow, HSE, IAS, Limerick Social Services, MABS, Mental Health Ireland, Pieta House, Samaritans and Suicide or Survive. We wish to acknowledge support from Abbeyfeale & District Search & Rescue, Local Counsellors, An Garda Siochana, Local Bereavement Groups, Irish Red Cross and local clergy.

A special thank-you to the Devon Inn Hotel for the use of their premises, Abbeyfeale & District Initiative, ESB and Limerick Social Services for their financial support.

Mary Danaher--Abbeyfeale & District Initiative, Dan Neville T.D and Co founder, President and Director of Irish association of Suicidology. Bernie Carroll --Resource Officer for Suicide Prevention HSE west. Dr. John Connelly---Psychiatrist and founding member and secretary of the Irish As-sociation of Suicidology.32

Youth Organisations and Third Level Colleges CampaignThe ‘Building Resilience’ Campaign for young people is aimed at third level students, local youth groups and their staff and youth leaders. The aim of the campaign will be to raise awareness about the importance of resilience and to highlight ways of strengthening it throughout one’s life.

Examples of target areas for the Youth Organisations and Third Level Colleges Campaign:

• Students and Youth Groups

• Staff and Youth Leaders

Examples of possible activities:

Third Level Organisations• Link with the Student Services and

Students’ Union Welfare Officers.

• Organise an information session with the Psychology Department on resilience.

• Link with the clubs and societies to promote the campaign theme ‘sign up, link in, get involved’.

• Promote the supports in the college for students and have information on resilience in the student health centre.

• Film society may organise a film that reflects the theme of the campaign.

• Organise a debate on what builds and what knocks resilience.

• Promote the ‘Ten Tips to Build Your Resilience’ factsheet - adapting them for target group.

• Link with the library to display and promote their bibliotherapy resources.

Youth Groups• Organise an information session on

resilience followed by a discussion on how the group can respond and develop their own and collective resilience.

• Suggest the group take on activities around World Mental Health Day that emphasise resilience.

• Ask youth organisations to promote the

‘sign up, link in, get involved’ campaign theme among staff and young people.

• Promote the ‘Ten Tips to Build Your Resilience’ factsheet - adapting them for target group.

• Ask youth groups to link with other youth groups during the week as part of the collective community resilience for young people initiative.

Building Resilience: Individual CampaignThe Building Resilience Campaign for individuals involves raising awareness of the need for all of us to look after our mental health and wellbeing. People are experiencing more personal stress than ever before in the present climate, whether it’s job losses, negative equity, increased workloads or personal issues. We are living in uncertain times which causes us to experience more pressure and stress whether we are aware of it or not. Each individual has the capacity to develop resilience, it is a personal journey. We do not all react the same to stressful events or challenges. Resilience is not a trait that people either have or do not have. It involves behaviours, thoughts and actions that can be learned and developed in everyone.

Building Resilience - Sign up, Link in, Get involved CampaignMental Health Ireland, the local Mental Health Associations and Development Officer Team will be running an ongoing campaign around World Mental Health Day to encourage individuals to:

Sign up for a course, learn a new skill, or take up some activity.

Link in with family and friends for social support and seek help early if you are experiencing mental or physical health difficulties.

Get involved in volunteering, find a cause you are passionate about or just practice random acts of kindness.

Activities• We will use the national and local

media, do radio interviews, write articles for local and national newspapers and get well known personalities who usually write about health issues to concentrate on promoting resilience during the week.

• We will run a poster campaign and distribute information leaflets on how to build and maintain resilience. We will target people who are recently unemployed, young parents, students, youth organisations and the general public.

• We will take part in our annual outdoor activities such as walks and fun events, all which build resilience and improve overall wellbeing.

• We will also be promoting annual activities run by Mental Health Associations as ways of building resilience. During the choral events, we will be encouraging people to join a choir or group or to just sit and listen to music.

'Building Resilience' Together Campaign

33

34

'Building Resilience' Information LeafletBelow is an extract from MHI's information leaflet supporting the Building Resilience Together Campaign which is available at www.mentalhealthireland.ie or contact Mental Health Ireland at 01-2841166 or email [email protected].

WHY BUILD YOUR RESILIENCE?

Developing a greater level of resilience doesn’t

stop difficult or stressful things from happening,

but it can reduce the impact these events

have on our lives and the time taken to recover

from them. Being resilient does not mean

ignoring your emotions or feelings, but rather

experiencing grief, sadness, disappointment or

anger whilst maintaining perspective and

continuing on with life with a sense of hope.

We all experience challenges and

disappointments at some point in our lives.

Most of us will encounter relationship

problems, health issues, financial stresses,

work worries, or bereavement.

Even wealth can’t protect us from trauma

and tragedy — but resilience does. More

importantly, resilience is not a trait that

people either have or do not have. It involves

behaviours, thoughts, and actions that can

be learned and developed in anyone.

Building Resilience is developing individual

strengths and abilities to “bounce back” from

challenges and setbacks that life presents us

with. It involves being able to adapt to

changes, drawing on both our own strengths

and the available social resources to assist us

during times of stress.

MENTAL HEALTH IRELAND

Mensana House

6 Adelaide Street

Dun Laoghaire

Co. Dublin

Tel: 01-2841166

Email: [email protected]

www.mentalhealthireland.ie

Find us on Facebook

www.facebook.com/Mental.Health.Ireland

“Our greatest glory is not in never falling,

but in rising every time we fall.”

-Confucius

Information Source:

Mental Health Association NSW Inc.

www.mentalhealth.asn.au

LINK INSIGN UP GET INVOLVED LINK INSIGN UP GET INVOLVED

“The strongest oak of the forest is not the one that is protected from the storm and hidden from the

sun. It’s the one that stands in the open where it is compelled to struggle for its existence against the

winds and rains and the scorching sun.”Napoleon Hill (1883-1970)

BUILDING RESILIENCETEN TIPS TO BUILD YOUR RESILIENCE

1. Have the courage to be imperfect.

Try to aim for “not bad at all” or “really quite

good” instead of “perfect”.

2. Take time for yourself.

Allow yourself time to do things

that you enjoy. If you create

boundaries around your time,

and stick to them, others will

respect them.

3. Sign up for that course, join that club.

Getting involved in community activities can

create skills and boost your physical and

mental wellbeing.

4. Be active every day in as

many ways as you can. Being

physically healthy is an important

foundation for your resilience.

See www.getirelandactive.ie

5. Spend time with

people who make you

feel good. Having

supportive relationships

is a key factor in

resilience. Good friendships are as important as

romantic and family relationships.

TEN TIPS TO BUILD YOUR RESILIENCE

6. Laugh out loud each day.

Laughing reduces stress levels,

so look for opportunities to

introduce some humour into

your day.

7. Get your ZZzz’s.

You will feel more resilient and able to handle

the stresses of the day when you’ve had a good

night’s sleep. Go to bed earlier and learn some

tips on how to improve the quality of your sleep.

8. It’s all about team work! Tackle difficult

tasks first, learn to ask for help and accept all

offers.

9. Remember, this too shall pass.

Keep things in perspective. Avoid being overly

negative about things. Try and focus on the

things you can control.

10. Talk out your troubles.

If you let friends and family know

when times are tough, they may

be able to provide a range of

support. This could include

listening, advice or providing

practical support. Sometimes

you may need to talk to a professional.

LINK INSIGN UP GET INVOLVED

LINK IN...Seeking help early canprevent an issue from gettingworse and help you bounce back toyour life more quickly. You mightfind it useful to connect with othernetworks in your area, such assupport groups or family and friends.

SIGN UP... For a courseMaintaining an interest is consideredone of the foundations of ourwellbeing. Learning can be formalor informal.

GET INVOLVED...Volunteering is an excellent way toget more involved with and help outyour local community, It increases social connectedness,quality of life and wellbeing. Thisis especially true for older people.


1. Have the courage to be imperfect.

Try to aim for “not bad at all” or “really quite

good” instead of “perfect”.

2. Take time for yourself.

Allow yourself time to do things

that you enjoy. If you create

boundaries around your time,

and stick to them, others will

respect them.

3. Sign up for that course, join that club.

Getting involved in community activities can

create skills and boost your physical and

mental wellbeing.

4. Be active every day in as

many ways as you can. Being

physically healthy is an important

foundation for your resilience.

See www.getirelandactive.ie

5. Spend time with

people who make you

feel good. Having

supportive relationships

is a key factor in

resilience. Good friendships are as important as

romantic and family relationships.


6. Laugh out loud each day.

Laughing reduces stress levels,

so look for opportunities to

introduce some humour into

your day.

7. Get your ZZzz’s.

You will feel more resilient and able to handle

the stresses of the day when you’ve had a good

night’s sleep. Go to bed earlier and learn some

tips on how to improve the quality of your sleep.

8. It’s all about team work! Tackle difficult

tasks first, learn to ask for help and accept all

offers.

9. Remember, this too shall pass.

Keep things in perspective. Avoid being overly

negative about things. Try and focus on the

things you can control.

10. Talk out your troubles.

If you let friends and family know

when times are tough, they may

be able to provide a range of

support. This could include

listening, advice or providing

practical support. Sometimes

you may need to talk to a professional.

LINK INSIGN UP GET INVOLVED

LINK IN...Seeking help early canprevent an issue from gettingworse and help you bounce back toyour life more quickly. You mightfind it useful to connect with othernetworks in your area, such assupport groups or family and friends.

SIGN UP... For a courseMaintaining an interest is consideredone of the foundations of ourwellbeing. Learning can be formalor informal.

GET INVOLVED...Volunteering is an excellent way toget more involved with and help outyour local community, It increases social connectedness,quality of life and wellbeing. Thisis especially true for older people.

Please contact Mental Health Ireland or your local MHI Development Officer for further information:Mental Health Ireland, Mensana House, 6 Adelaide Street, Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin. Tel: 01-284 11 66 - Fax: 01-284 17 36 | Email: [email protected] | www.mentalhealthireland.ie

Very Important Reminder Notice for all Mental Health Associations and Volunteers Please submit information on events and activities for World Mental Health Week which you will be scheduling for October 2012. Contact your local Development Officer or Treasa Hanniffy at [email protected] with the details.

World Mental Health Week 2012SignUp

LinkIn

GetInvolved

Singing for your mental healthAssociation of Irish Choirs: enhancing life through choral music.

Introduction90% of people involved in singing report that ‘singing positively affects quality of life’, ‘singing makes mood more positive’ and ‘singing is relaxing and helps deal with stress’. (Cliff et al 2008)

Existing Research StudiesAn increasing number of studies and reports on the benefits of group singing have shown that singers report a range of associated social, psychological and health benefits.

Participating in group singing activities has been shown to encourage team building, development of leadership skills and active citizenship. Singing in a group can reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness, has been shown to increase the

production of endorphins and adrenaline, heightening feelings of well-being, gives the participant a physical workout and is an enjoyable way to meet new people and make music together.

Anaverageof95%ofsingersreportthat‘singingpositivelyaffectsqualityoflife’

Anaverageof91%ofsingersreportthat‘singingmakesmymoodmorepositive’

Anaverageof85%ofsingersreportthat‘singingisrelaxingandhelpsdealwithstress’

Choral Singing, Wellbeing and Health: Summary of Findings from a Cross National Survey (2008)

Research has also assessed the impact of singing on physiological variables assumed to have wellbeing and health implications. Several studies have tested levels of immunoglobulin; a sample of saliva is taken from participants before and after singing and reported significant

increases, pointing to enhanced immune system activity (e.g. Becj et al 2000; Kuhn 2002, Kreutz, Bongard, Rohrmann, Grebe, Bastian and Hodapp, 2004).

Houston, McKee, Carroll and Marsh (1998) report improvements in levels of anxiety and depression in nursing home residents following a four week programme of singing and Cohen, Perlstein, Chapline, Kelly, Firth and Simmens (2006) found improvements in both mental and physical health in a group of elderly people participating in community choir for one year.

Since 2008, the Association of Irish Choirs (AOIC), has become involved in a number of initiatives designed to encourage greater participation in singing nationally, in particular to promote the positive benefits of choral singing for people’s physical and mental health. Founded in 1980, The Association of Irish Choirs /Cumann Náisiúnta na gCór is a national resource organisation, funded by the Arts Council, to support and promote excellence in choral music on the island of Ireland. The Association fulfils its function as a national resource organisation by providing information and advice to choirs and conductors and by presenting a range of programmes and activities designed to respond to the needs of Association members, the wider choral community and the public.

AOIC’s most successful initiative to date, in the area of arts and health, has been as organiser of Ireland’s National Choral Singing Week to coincide with World Mental Health Day in association with Mental Health Ireland. National Choral Singing Week activities take place in a number of contexts including day centres, hospitals, schools, shopping centres, workplaces and in 2010, even members of the Dáil and Séanad participated.

AOIC’s role in National Choral Singing Week is as:

• initiator (where we encourage choirs to think about ways in which they can get involved).

• facilitator (where we put choirs in touch with each other and ease access to health /public settings).

• and finally, as promoter (on our website, our monthly newsflash and in local and national press).

National Choral Singing Project

35

“MHI is delighted to join with our project partners, the HSE and the Soroptimist on the rollout of this innovative community based Mental Health Awareness Project. The project fits well with our theme for 2012 / 2013 “Building Resilience Together” which promotes the ethos of community awareness of mental health and societal issues for the benefit of all”.

For further details contact your local MHI Development Officer or MHI at 01 2841166 or [email protected] for the attention of Treasa Hanniffy.

Soroptimist National Project 2011 - 2013Suicide Prevention and Positive Mental Health

L-R: Barbara Harrison, National President Soroptimist International ROI, Minister Kathleen Lynch and Sarah McCormack, President Soroptimist Mullingar and District.

Every two years Soroptimist International Republic of Ireland select a national project for their community work. Their new national project for 2011/2013 is Positive Mental Health and Suicide Prevention. The selection of this project came from a very successful local project on Positive Mental Health and Suicide Prevention run by Soroptimist International Mullingar and District. Building on this success, the Soroptimists approached the HSE and Mental Health Ireland (MHI) with their proposal and a partnership project was launched in November 2011.

All three parties will work together on this community project – creating awareness and information sharing. This is not a fundraising project but rather one of interaction with the community to bring about awareness on mental health. The objectives of the project are for the Soroptimists:

• To assist with the provision of appropriate information to the community.

• To assist with the work for the removal of stigma associated with mental health.

• To assist with the work to build a more suicide alert commnity.

Soroptimists will: • WorkjointlywiththeirlocalMentalHealthDevelopment

Officers,MentalHealthAssociationsandHSEResourceOfficersforSuicidePrevention.

• Hostinformativesocialgatherings/eventsthatwillcreateanenvironmenttoassisttheHSEandMHIsharingvaluableinformationwiththepubliconhowpeopleshouldlookaftertheirmentalhealthandnotfeelashamedorstigmatisedfromhavingamentalhealthissue.

• OrganiseeventsofdifferenttypestocreateawarenessofWorld Suicide Prevention Day 10th September and World Mental Health Day 10th October.

• EncouragethepublictoattendStressManagement,SafeT.A.L.K.andA.S.I.S.T.coursesintheirarea.

Soroptimist International (SI) is a worldwide vibrant dynamic organisation of professional and business women who work to improve the lives of women and girls in local communities and throughout the world. They work to improve the lives and status of women and girls through education, empowerment or enabling opportunities. There are over 90,000 Soroptimists in 3,000 clubs in 124 countries. All of the 20 Clubs in the Republic of Ireland will be involved in the project. There are over 500 Soroptimists in these clubs. The clubs are located in Athlone, Ballina, Ballinasloe, Bandon, Bray, Castlebar, Clonmel, Cork, Drogheda, Dublin, Dungarvin, Ennis, Killarney, Limerick, Mullingar, Naas/Newbridge, North Kildare, Sligo, Tralee and Wexford. Meetings have started between the Development Officers, Resource Officers and some of the Soroptimist Clubs. Every club's effort, big or small will help this much needed work.

This has the potential to be a very successful project. The Soroptimists who have many contacts within the community, great organisation skills and whose key goal is to improves people’s lives through education and empowerment is now joining up with the professionals from the HSE and MHI. Together this strong partnership will encourage the community to focus on their mental health and understand that there should be no stigma attached to mental health. President Barbara Harrison of Soroptimist International Republic of Ireland is fully supportive of this project. Sarah McCormack, SI Mullingar & District is the Soroptimist Co-ordinator of this national project and can be contacted at 086 2552720. If you want to be involved or do something in your community with the Soroptimists please contact Sarah or your local Soroptimist Club. Every area and club can be creative and develop new ideas and new events on how to get our community to learn more and focus on their mental health.

36

MHI Projects and ActivitiesA National Project Promoting Positive Mental Health and Suicide Awareness.

R E P U B L I C O F I R E L A N D

37

Leitrim Students Win 2011-2012 National Public Speaking Title

Students from Lough Allen College, Drumkeerin, Co. Leitrim won this year’s National Public Speaking Project. The final was held in the Edmund Burke Theatre, Trinity College, Dublin on Saturday 31st March.

The judging panel praised all the students for their clear understanding of the subject, which was demonstrated by the concise content in their contributions and on their understanding of the topic. The topic chosen for this year’s final was:

Personal Integrity, Community Care, Mindfulness of the Spirit – The Keys to Our Well-Being.The team were supported by their families and friends and their teacher who assisted them throughout the project, Ms. Rachel Shannon. Their prize is a 3 day trip to Brussels and the much coveted National Perpetual Trophy.

Commenting on the value of the event, Brian Howard, CEO of MHI, said: “By encouraging young people to research mental health issues, both nationally and in their own localities, we are developing more informed attitudes and helping to eradicate negative stigmas surrounding mental illness. The event is also playing a very important role in creating awareness among young people in the vital importance of developing positive mental health strategies at personal and community levels.”

To date, the project has delivered some very positive results, including an

improvement in self-confidence among the students involved, a heightened awareness of mental health issues, increased career motivation and, most importantly, a sense of pride and achievement among all those involved.

Crucially, the project has engaged thousands of students to think more deeply about the issue of mental health problems, and has encouraged school and community participation in a subject that affects so many young people and their families living in Ireland.

In September we will launch the 32nd year of the Public Speaking Project. We would ask all volunteers, local MHAs and schools to continue to support this fantastic project. It is as important now as it has ever been.

Mental Health Ireland wishes to thank all the schools, teachers and students who have entered this year’s project. We are delighted with the interest in the project again this year and we trust that all involved will find it a rewarding experience. We understand it takes a huge commitment to undertake such projects and MHI commend you for this and your support for Mental Health Ireland in building awareness of positive mental health. Good luck and best wishes to all the teams!

Thanks also to all involved with the organisation of the project locally and all who have volunteered their time to act as Adjudicators and Master of Ceremonies.

Student’s perspective of their experience of Mental Health Ireland’s National Public Speaking Project 2012.

Shannon O’Grady I feel this experience has given me a massive confidence boost. I now have the ability to get up and speak in front of crowds of people, before this experience I was always nervous about anything I done, but now that I am confident, I have no problem.

Participating in this project requires a lot of work and dedication but since we are now the All Ireland Champs, it just shows you that if you are 100% dedicated to reaching your goal you can achieve anything in life. I am now more aware of the mental health problems facing Ireland today and I pay closer attention to people when they do talk to me about their problems. Before commencing this project I knew very little about the extent of mental health conditions in Ireland. I found it overwhelming the number of people experiencing depression at one time, the rising suicide deaths per year and the increasing numbers of people suffering from eating disorders.

Mental Health Ireland do tremendous work and they should be highly praised for the outstanding help they give the people of Ireland. I would encourage any teenager to come on board and join the project as it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity and the benefits are never ending. When you cross that finish line

Winners: Loughallen, Drumkeerin, Co. Leitrim. L-R: Brian Howard, (CEO of MHI)), Shannon O’Grady, Kate Byrne, Michael Clancy, Suzie McGovern (Sub) and Ms. Rachel Shannon (Tutor).

Finalists: Ursuline Secondary School, Thulers, Co. Tipperary. L-R; Brian Howard (CEO of MHI)), Aine Blake, Ruth Atkins, Lisa Fogarty, Lauren Moore (sub) and Ms. Mae Quinn (Tutor).

Finalists: St. Mary’s CBS, Enniscorthy, Wexford.L-R; Brian Howard (CEO of MHI), Dylan Croake, Martin Breen, Liam Balfe (sub), Ross Walsh and Jim McGovern (Tutor).

National Public Speaking Project 2012 - 2013

In September this year we will launch the 32nd Public Speaking Project. We would ask all volunteers, local MHAs and schools to continue your support for this fantastic project. Mr. Brian Howard, CEO, MHI says of the project “It is as important now as it has ever been. Crucially, the project has engaged hundreds of students to think more deeply about the issue of mental health problems,

and has encouraged school and community participation in a subject that affects so many young people living in Ireland”.

An information pack containing all the information needed to enter a team will be distributed to all Post-Primary Schools and Colleges during the first two weeks of September. All local MHA

Secretaries will be sent the Information Pack and details of the project will also be available on the Mental Health Ireland website, www.mentalhealthireland.ie. For more information please contact MHI at 01 2841166 or email us at [email protected].

Adjudicator Training Workshop

Mental Health Ireland is planning to hold Adjudicator Training Workshop before commencement of the 2012 - 2013 Public Speaking Project. This will be held on 19th September in Clarion Hotel, Liffey Valley, Dublin 22. This workshop will be open to volunteers interested in becoming an adjudicator as well as existing

adjudicators on the panel. For more details, please contact Elaine Corcoran at [email protected] or Treasa Hanniffy at [email protected] or call MHI at 01-2841166.

38

and become the All Ireland Champion you’ll know what I mean J

Thank you Mental Health Ireland.

Kate Byrne I would like to thank Mental Health for giving me the opportunity to participate in their Public Speaking Project. Not only did it enhance my confidence and public speaking skills but it also educated me on the importance of positive mental health. Before the programme, I really wasn’t aware of the severity of mental health problems in Ireland or the services available to deal with them, but now it’s all I can talk about.

I hope that many more students will benefit the way my team and I have from participating in the project. It was great to win the All-Ireland but it was even better to know that we are doing our bit to remove the stigma attached to Mental Illness.

Keep up the good work!

MichaelClancyFrom participating in the Mental Health Ireland Public Speaking Project I’ve learned many things that will stay with me throughout my life.

In terms of public speaking, I’ve developed a lot more confidence when speaking in front of a crowd.

In relation to mental health, I now know how important everyday situations are. It’s not just problems such as death or breakdown in a relationship or families that cause poor mental health but the decisions and problems we meet every day and how we deal with them. This competition has taught me that mental wellness is not only mentally related. Physical health is essential in order to have positive mental health. I now understand that your surroundings such as your friends, family, school or home have a major effect on your mental health but in the end it depends on the person, how they view the problem in hand, how they choose to deal with it and the attitude they have towards overcoming it.

This project has encouraged over 400 students to research mental health and complete at least one speech in this year alone. I can’t speak on behalf of all the schools that participated in the project, but every student in our school has heard each of our speeches on several occasions and from speaking to them, they have learned so much from just listing to the speeches. The same goes for our families and everyone who has heard the speeches and given us feedback. The project, in my eyes, has helped so many people, young and old understand mental health and its importance.

Thank you Mental Health Ireland.

Suzie McGovern I found that participating in public speaking in relation to mental health was very beneficial as it gave me a deeper understanding of the issues facing people in Ireland today. I learned that people with mental problems should not be looked down upon but given the support to help them regain positive mental health.

I’ve also learned not to judge people or to see them as weak when they show their emotions, as this is positive rather than negative because people should be able to express themselves and ask for help if necessary without being labelled.

I believe society needs to change its attitude towards people with mental health issues, be more open and put additional structures in place to provide more support to those suffering, often in silence within our society.

Thank you.

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National Photographic Project 2011-2012Cavan Student Wins National Photographic Project 2011-2012Ms. Lauren O’Rourke, a student from Loreto College, Co. Cavan was announced the winner of our National Photographic Project at Trinity College, Dublin, on Saturday, March 31st. The theme of the Project was Positive Mental Health. Lauren attended the final and was accompanied by her teacher Ms. Brona Molloy.

Lauren’s photograph was chosen from entries received from second-level students from all over Ireland. Sarah was awarded a trophy and a cheque for €250. Ms. Brona Molloy, Lauren's art teacher also received a trophy.

Lauren’s photograph shows several candles a light arranged in the shape of a smiley face. The caption on it reads “When you’re in a dark place, your smile is a light”. The judges loved Lauren’s photograph. The message in it is very simple; a smile is a light even in a dark place and is good for your mental health and well being. “When you’re in a dark place, your smile is a light” by Lauren O’Rourke.

The 2012 - 2013 National Photographic Project will be launched in September. Details of the project will be sent to all Post-Primary Schools and Colleges around the country and to Development Officers and local MHA Secretaries. Local MHAs are encouraged to ensure that all local second level schools are aware of this project.

The overall winner’s artwork will receive a €250 cheque and a trophy. Remember Positive Mental Health is the theme for the project and entries must portray a positive mental health message.

Details of the project will be available on www.mentalhealthireland.ie.

If you are interested in participating, please contact your local MHI Development Officer for details or Mental Health Ireland at Mensana House at [email protected].

National Photographic Project 2012-2013

Design a Cover Art Project 2012-2013

The 2012/2013 Design a Cover Art Project will be launched in September and details of the project will be circulated to all Post-Primary Schools and Colleges. The Information Pack will also be sent to local MHA Secretaries who are encouraged to create awareness of the project amongst the second level schools in your area. Students who submit an entry will be in with a chance to see their artwork reproduced on the cover of MHI’s calendar and will also receive a €250 cheque and a trophy. Remember Positive Mental Health is the theme for the project and entries must portray a positive mental health message.

Kilkenny student wins National Art Project 2011-2012

"You’re Stronger than you feel, Wiser than you think, and Braver than you believe!" by Grace O’ Mahony.

Ms. Grace O’ Mahony, a student from Loreto Secondary School, Co. Kilkenny was declared the winner of Mental Health Ireland’s National Design a Cover Art Project.

Grace was presented with her award of a cheque for €250 and a trophy. She was accompanied by her teacher, Ms. Anita Fitzgerald on the day.

Grace’s design, which was chosen from over one thousand entries received from second-level students from all over Ireland. It will be used by Mental Health Ireland on the cover of Health Ireland’s

Calendar for 2013.

Grace’s picture is finished in pencil which was simple but very eye catching. It is a picture of a hand supporting another hand in the centre of the image. The caption surrounds the border of the picture and reads “Your Stronger than You Feel, Wiser than You Think and Braver than You Feel”.

The judges loved Grace’s picture as it depicts Positive Mental Health in a very simple and effective way with a strong and clear message.

Design a Cover Art Project 2011-2012

Mental Health Matters Facilitator Training

The Mental Health Matters (MHM) Facilitator Training was originally developed by Mental Health Ireland (MHI) to assist Post-Primary School teachers with the delivery of the Mental Health Matters Resource Pack. The MHM Resource Pack, developed by MHI, is a mental health education and promotion programme which was introduced to all Post-Primary Schools nationwide in 2001. The programme is designed to be realistic and help people identify and access relevant support so they can respond in appropriate ways to emerging mental health difficulties in their lives. The programme aims to trigger discussions and role play on issues such as substance misuse as well as bullying, relationship difficulties and family conflict. The programme also addresses the issue of stigma and aims to reduce stigma associated with mental health by encouraging participants to talk openly about their emotions and mental health difficulties. The Resource Pack has been in existence now for 11 years and is still very popular with teachers.

Due to increased demand from other sectors, in 2011, Mental Health Ireland made the MHM Facilitator Training available to individuals working in many fora outside the school setting such as, organisations working on behalf of the HSE, community groups, youth groups and the voluntary sector. The training course is free of charge to voluntary organisations and all participants receive a Mental Health Matters Resource Pack upon completion.

This year so far, a number of Mental Health Matters Facililtator Training courses have been organised around the country, including: Dublin, Donegal, Sligo, Mayo, Laois, Tipperary Roscommon and Waterford. Feedback from participants has been very positive and plans are in place for further training courses during the year. A training course specifically for Post-Primary School teachers is on the 18th December 2012, in Clarion Hotel, Liffey Valley.

There will also be training for Mental Health Matters for Non-Teachers on the 18th September. For further details of the Mental Health Matters Programme and to find out about MHM Facilitator Training available in your area, please contact Mental Health Ireland at training @mentalhealthireland.ie or call 01-2841166 or

your local Development Officer.

MHI wishes to thank all the trainers and those who have completed the MHM Facilitator Training. We welcome feedback from participants on how you have used the MHM Resource Pack in your work. Comments can be sent to [email protected], for the attention of Treasa Hanniffy.

MHI Workshops Available to Local MHA's

The following is a breakdown of workshops which are available to Volunteers/local MHA's to run in your locality:Looking after your Mental Health

• Mental Health Matters Facilitator Training for NON-TEACHERS

• Understanding Mental Health • Introduction to Health

Promotion and Mental Health Promotion

• Building Resilience Together • Stress Management • Caring for the Carer

Mental Health and Specific Population Groups

• Mental Health and Young People

• Mental Health and Older Adults

• Coping with Unemployment • Men’s Health - Interactive

Workshop

Understanding Mental Illness

• Introduction to Mood Disorders

• Coping with Mental Illness in the Family

• Substance Misuse and Mental Health

• Introduction to Suicide and Self-Harm Awareness Workshop

• ASIST and safeTALK Programmes

Other Issues in Mental Health

• Understanding Stigma, Discrimination and Mental Illness (including information on Accessing the Mental Health Services & Advocacy and Mental Health)

• The Recovery Model • Social Housing • Mental Health Matters

Facilitator Training for TEACHERS

As mental health problems are increasing, it is now more important than ever for people to be introduced to the concept of positive mental health and ways to maintain mental wellbeing and MHI continues to deliver programmes/projects for people to inform them.

If you are interested in any of the above courses, please contact your local MHI Development Officer for details or Mental Health Ireland at Mensana House on 01-2841166 or [email protected].

Ted Tierney,Deputy CEO, MHI.40

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Activity MattersBy Peter Kavanagh, Information Officer, Active Retirement Ireland.

Retirement is just a word, not a sentence. That’s a sentiment expressed to me at a meeting of one of Active Retirement Ireland’s 540 local groups last year. I was in conversation with a gentle-man who had recently retired and had found the process tough.

It’s a common experience. Many people can struggle to replace the social aspect of their working lives in retirement. For a lot of people, especially older men, the lack of a work/life balance in their working years can lead to loneliness and isolation in later life. At an arbitrary date in the calendar, older people can go from employed to retired; from the life and soul of the workplace to alone and ignored.

For many, the answer is to stay in work for longer. Irish people have traditionally retired later than many of their European counterparts and an increasing amount of older people are working beyond the current retirement age. Across Europe, older people’s organisations are lobbying governments for an end to mandatory retirement ages, allowing older people to choose the age at which they retire themselves.

This, however, is only a stopgap measure to prevent the onset of isolation and, potentially, depression in later life. The only way for those who are at risk of loneliness and marginalisation to future-proof their retirement is to remain as active as possible for as long as possible.

Active Ageing is the term used to describe remaining active in retirement, but it often has connotations of marathon runners or competitors at the World Senior Games. If that’s your style, we doff our collective caps, but at Active Retirement Ireland there’s so much more than physical activity.

Active Retirement Associations enjoy a wide range of activities, ranging from social activities and classes to leisure activities and short breaks, all of which are aimed at reducing the risk of isolation and loneliness among older people in Ireland.

Key among all the activities ARAs enjoy is the social connectedness they foster among their members. The volunteers who organise the local activities create an a la carte menu of activities based on the needs of local older people and on the facilities at hand. This helps people maintain a sense of pride in their locale, just as Lions Clubs, Tidy Towns Committees, GAA Clubs and other local groups do.

Isolation and loneliness in retirement can lead to depression and can be a huge risk factor in older people’s mental health. The best way to stay socially connected is to get active and get involved.

Mental Health Education & Promotion

Active Retirement IrelandActive Retirement Ireland is the national representative body for 539 Active Retirement Associations throughout Ireland, with a total membership of over 22,500 people. Founded in 1978 and currently organised into eight regional councils, the movement’s principal aim is to help retired men and women, usually over the age of 50, lead a full happy and healthy retirement by offering organised opportunities for a wide range of activities, including holidays, outings and socials; creative and learning programmes; indoor and outdoor sports; and community work. For more information checkout our website at www.activeirl.ie or call 01-8733836.

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The Benefits of Woodland Recreation on your Mental Health

A “Woodlands for Health” programme is being developed by Mental Health Ireland in collaboration with Coillte Outdoors – The Recreation Division of The Irish Forestry Board.

Coillte Outdoors has developed a valuable resource with a network of 11 Forest Parks and 150 walking trails throughout Ireland.

Coillte is in a unique position to adapt a programme to help improve the physical and mental health of the general population through encouraging greater use of the outdoors to promote better health and wellbeing. Woodlands can help to improve an individual’s and group’s physical and mental health by offering a place for:

• Exercise such as walking, cycling and running which makes you feel fitter, more energetic and lively.

• Peace and tranquillity which are natures natural stress relievers. A calming environment gives us time to reflect, relax. Our stress levels can be reduced, our mood is enhanced and we become more positive in our outlook.

• Raising our spirits through new experiences of sights, sounds and smell.

• Social interactions which reduce isolation helping us to meet new people and make us feel part of our wider Community.

Pilot Project A pilot project is currently being developed with the HSE/Wicklow Mental Health Services.

Bill Murphy, Head of Recreation at Coillte, Charlie Burke, Project Manager, Coillte and Dr. Justin Brophy, Clinical Director at Newcastle Hospital are very keen to drive

and implement a programme similar to the “Branching Out” project which has been developed and successfully applied by Forestry Commission Scotland and the NHS.

The HSE manage Newcastle Hospital in Greystones which provides residential care and medical treatment for psychiatric patients. When patients return to their homes they receive a Care Plan which is prepared by their Care Team. It is proposed that the “Woodlands For Health” programme would form part of their recovery.

The project will involve the referral of patients (Service Users) by the HSE Wicklow Mental Health Service. The purpose of the project is to develop a programme to enable persons enduring mental-ill health to achieve a better health outcome.

The project will involve a partnership between Coillte, HSE/Wicklow Mental Health Services, Wicklow Mental Health Association and local service users to investigate and evaluate the potential of using the woodlands in East Wicklow to improve the physical and mental health of persons managing and enduring mental-ill health.

For more information on this project please contact Treasa Hanniffy at [email protected] or Charlie Burke at [email protected]

Branching Out ProjectBranching Out is a partnership project led by Forestry Commission Scotland which offers woodland activities on referral for health service users. The project originated in the NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde area and has expanded across Central Scotland.

“Branching Out” uses woodlands as a recovery setting for people experiencing mental-ill health.

The service consists of approximately 3 hours of activities each week in a woodland setting. Clients work together in small groups of up to fifteen for a twelve week period. The course includes elements of bush craft, nature conservation, environmental art, green exercise and relaxation.

Each “Branching Out” group is led by two rangers and supported by healthcare staff from the referring service.

The course content was devised by consultation with the Scottish Countryside Ranger Association, healthcare organisations (e.g. NHS Health Scotland and the Scottish Association for Mental Health) and with references to other similar courses in Australia and Canada.

The pilot Branching Out training programme ran in May 2011 with trainees from Forestry Commission Scotland, Greenspace Trust, Clyde Regional Park and East Renfrewshire Council. Following feedback from the pilot, the course was re-drafted slightly with help from the NHS Health Scotland Learning and Development Team.

Coillte Healthy Woodland WalksCoillte Outdoors is holding “Healthy Woodland Walks” at Avondale Forest Park in Rathdrum, Co. Wicklow on the 1st Sunday of each month

The walks present people with a chance to get outdoors in a natural green environment and meet people. Many of us know that being more active outdoors is good for our physical health – but getting outdoors and into nature can improve mental health too. Walking is a fantastic way to boost your energy levels, improve self-esteem and meet new friends

Please visit www.coillteoutdoors.ie where you can find details of these events and other events and recreation sites in your area.

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Carlow Mental Health Association plan its way into 2012 by Joanne Donohue, Carlow Mental Health Association.

If you are planning for a year, sow rice; if you are planning for a decade, plant trees; if you are planning for a lifetime, educate people

- Chinese Proverb

Carlow Mental Health Association is reaping the benefits of forward planning this year with our calendar of activities.

2011 brought with it many changes for the Association with the amalgamation of the group with Carlow Suicide Awareness Network. With joint forces the group ran a wide variety of events in Carlow to promote positive mental health and mental health services. It was a lot of work with most of it falling on the latter half of the year.

To manage the work more efficiently and for the impact to be more effective for 2012 we have organised a calendar of events. This was developed following a planning session during one of our Committee meetings. Members spoke about what worked the previous year, what we wanted to keep and some new ideas. This was then compiled and reviewed at the next meeting.

Planning is key, particularly for a voluntary organisation likes ours. We only meet monthly, which means that work has to happen outside of our meetings. By having a clear plan for the year we can ensure we have activities running throughout that year, that the activities happen throughout the county and that we have plenty of time to plan and organise these events. Of course there is flexibility to add to the calendar but this will only happen if it doesn’t clash with an organised activity.

To ensure all work is completed we have formed sub groups of the Mental Health Association. Members, with a particular interest, or energy around an event come together to organise that event. This allows the work to be distributed more evenly between members but it also means that people can work on the elements of the calendar that has particular interest to them.

In 2012 we have already organised a walking float for the St Patricks Day Parade, handing out stickers that we have printed with positive messages, as well as printing beer mats that were distributed in the bars on St Patricks Day.

Linda Thorpe, MHI Development Officer and Irene Ryan, Chairperson of Carlow MHA.

6 Safe Talk training sessions have been secured for Carlow to be run by our Regional Suicide Resource Office. These will be run in different towns within the county. We are organising an event to mark World Suicide Prevention Day in September and a week of events for Mensana Fest to mark World Mental Health Day. We also participate in the Mental Health Irelands book mark competition. We regularly update your webpage, we are on Facebook and we are currently designing a Carlow Mental Health Association leaflet.

Our aim is to promote positive mental health and to link people to, and support the existing mental health and suicide services in Carlow. I believe that by working together and planning to do this we will achieve our aim for 2012.

Carlow Mental Health AssociationCalendar of Events 2012

January February March

Radio Advertisements KCLR Parish Newsletter Advertisements

1st World Book Day 17th St Patrick's Day Parade

26th Safe Talk - Bagenalstown

April May June

23rd Safe Talk - Borris, Carlow 26th Safe Talk - Askea, Carlow

10th Safe Talk - Borris, Carlow 18th Safe Talk - Askea, Carlow

July August September

2nd Safe Talk - Askea, Carlow 7-10th Carlow Suicide Awareness Project

October November December

8-14th Mensana Fest

Ongoing Work

Facebook – updated weekly Wedsite – updated as needed Sports Programmes Advertisements

Let's Share - Volunteers & MHA's Sharing Information

Dalkey Troy Social Club, The Story So Far…

The Dalkey Troy Social Club was founded in 1999 by Gordon and Eileen Young, who ran the club for 11 years with Paddy Ruderford, Theresa Lynch and Gerry Duffy. It was called the Troy Centre after Ms. Kathleen Troy, who was very active in community affairs in Dun Laoghaire/Rathdown, and who was dedicated to helping people with mental illness in the community.

Eileen and Gordon ran and managed the club for 11 years under the Dublin Clubhouse Alliance Ltd. Due to a lack of funding, they had to step down from managing the club in order the keep the club up and running, they transferred management of the club to the Dun Laoghaire Mental Health Association in 2010.

The running of the club was then assumed by the service users themselves, who also sit on the Board of Dun Laoghaire Mental Health Association.. The club is managed and run by the following service users: Mr. Declan Kavanagh, Mr. Anthony Doyle, Mr. Ed. McGeogh and Mr. Alan Dodd. They are assisted by three carers.

An attendance record is maintained and this shows just under 400 people have attended the Dalkey Social Club since it was founded.

Almost all of the attendees of the Club suffer from a serious mental illness, including Schizophrenia and Bipolar. Many have suffered a psychosis.

As a result of their illness, many of the clients suffer from a lack of motivation, poor social skills, lack of confidence and isolation. Isolation can exacerbate a persons’ illness.

The aim of the club is to break this potentially viscous cycle. We do this by offering a social outlet on Friday evenings from 6pm – 9pm in Dalkey Village in Dublin in an alcohol-free environment.

With the advent of care in the community, this has led to mentally ill people no longer been located in hospitals for years on end – The Dalkey Troy Club offers more participation in society.

At the club, there is a meet & greet for every member by Mr. Ed. McGeogh. There is unlimited filter coffee, tea, fruit and snacks for the night, and fresh handmade sandwiches.

There are sofas and a homely atmosphere where people sit and chat about how the week has gone. At 7.30, we run the Pool competition called “Killers”, with a small prize for the winner. We then at 8pm run a table-tennis competition. These are great fun and they help people mix and make new friends, as well as improving their social skills and motivation.

The competitive element is proving very beneficial with everyone really enjoying the sports and finding their self-esteem improving.

We then wrap things up at around 9pm, and some of the members might go for a social drink in the pub afterwards. The trip out to Dalkey on the Dart is ideal for members with all the benefits of one of the nicest villages in Dublin, giving something to look forward to at the end of the week.

In 2011, it was decided to run a holiday weekend to Glencree. Service Users performed a work weekend in exchange for the accommodation. We hope to run two trips to Glencree this year. The accommodation is right in the heart of nature proving very relaxing to the attendees.

An attendance record has been maintained and since Dun Laoghaire MHA have been running the Club, attendance has improved reaching a peak of 45 people at the Christmas party, for which a DJ was hired.

Objective: Dun Laoghaire MHA is determined to keep the club up and running as we are convinced as to the vital benfits of the club.

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My name is Derek Finglas. I come to the Troy Social Club every Friday night for over a year now. I look forward to Friday night as you can let yourself go and feel part of the group and people will like you for being yourself. I find everyone very friendly and I also like myself. I want to thank everyone there for giving me a great night as I used to sit in and watch television and feel quite bored as it was the weekend. Now I think Friday is the best day of the week.

Thank you everybody, Derek

My name is Theresa Lynch. I am the Treasurer of Dun Laoghaire MHA. I am a carer in the Dalkey Troy Social Club. I first started 8 years ago and I have seen a lot of people come and go. When they first start a lot of them are not that well, after a few weeks you can see them come out of themselves and gain a lot of belief in themselves. It makes me feel good to be part of it. They are a great bunch of people and I admire every one of them.

Cheers, Theresa

My name is Simon Hughes. I have been coming to the Friday club for five years. I used to stay in a lot and not do much at the weekends. I started going to the club on the advice of a friend I met in Venegas House Day Centre in Dun Laoghaire. I find it gets me out of the house and gives me an interest which I didn’t have before. I socialise and play games at it and its great craic. I look forward to my Friday nights now as the people there are great.

Simon Hughes

My name is Anthony Doyle. The Troy Club means a lot to me because when I started going to the club I was not well and had no confidence. But I got involved in running the club and helping out. I have being involved in the club now for 8 years and my confidence has come back. I now sit on the committee of Dun Laoghaire MHA and love helping my fellow suffers.

Anthony Doyle

My name is Declan Kavanagh, I suffer from mental illness. I attend the Troy Social Club every Friday night. I first started 8 years ago and I find that it has changed my whole social life. I used to have no friends and life was very boring and lonely for me at the weekends. I now organise a pool competition at the club and we have a great bit of fun and craic. I now have met a lot of people and made a lot of friends. I look forward to my Friday night it has given me great confidence to go out beyond the club and meet people.

Declan Kavanagh

I love the club very much. I think it is a wonderful good thing. I love meeting everybody and have a good time especially the pool and table atennis. I love the computers. I come on the DART and can’t wait till I get there to meet everybody, the people are all very friendly and there is plenty to do. I always get there for 6 o’clock, the opening time as early as I can. I would just like to say what a great night!

John Rothanan

Glencree was a wonderful experience. I was group leader and I was worried would the clients have a good time up there, would it rain, would they be bored after an hour. Anyway we got up there at 7pm Friday and everyone arrived. We then cooked dinner for 17 people. I have to say it was the best curry I ever cooked and everyone felt the same and all the plates were cleared. We then had a quiz and sang songs up till midnight.

Next day we went on a walk in the rain, my worst fear, but it did not matter as it was back to nature and it felt great, I don’t have the words to explain it.

The day went past quite quickly and it was midnight again and our group leader reflected on the day, we all agreed it has been a great success.

Anyway we cooked breakfast on the Sunday and about 3 people had said to me this has been the best weekend I ever had and people are still saying it.

And to their gratitude they all chipped in and bought me a present and thanked me very much.

Thank you everybody, Declan Kavanagh.

Dalkey Troy Social Club, Glencree Trip

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Announcements

Myra WalsheRetirementMHI would like to acknowledge the excellent work of Myra Walshe as a MHI Development Officer in the Western region covering Mayo and Roscommon areas.

Myra was extremely popular with volunteers and a valued colleague.

Myra will be greatly missed by all concerned and we wish her all the best in her retirement.

We are delighted that Myra intends to continue her valued work as a volunteer with MHI.

Anna OgarekNew PasturesAnna joined Mental Health Ireland in 2008 to join the staff in Mental Health Ireland in an administrative role. Anna applied herself to all her duties in a very diligent and enthusiastic way which was appreciated by her colleagues in Mental Health Ireland.

Anna assisted in several key MHI project's and activities including website management and development, administration duties, contributor to Mental Health Matters programme review and Mental Health Ireland Information and Communication Review subgroup.

Anna regrettably departed from Mental Health Ireland to take up a permanent position in the Dublin area. All her colleagues wish her well in the future both personally and professionally.

Treasa HanniffyNew Administration OfficerWe welcome Treasa who joined Mental Health Ireland earlier this year and has settled very well into her new Administration Officer position.

Treasa has had an interest in the past in mental heath and certainly hit the ground running in relation to many of her tasks when she first joined Mental Health Ireland.

With recent increases in sick leave of a number of staff in Mental Health Ireland, Treasa has coped admirably with the increased workload this has caused and is proving to be a valuable asset for Mental Health Ireland.

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In one paragraph how would you describe yourself?I am an energetic person and find myself involved in many different projects in the community. I enjoy working with others with similar motivations and look at barriers as opportunities for change. Having returned to university later in life to study a social science degree and later a PhD in mental health and social policy I realise the value and privilege that education has given me, in giving back to the community at development level. The power of people never ceases to amaze me. I truly believe that people with motivation; setting goals and working with others, can really make a difference. Being a person who sees life as ‘the glass half full’ I embrace new challenges and view life as a vast conclave of opportunities. Working as a teacher has enriched my life. My teaching philosophy is influenced by William Butler Yeats quote “education is not the filling of the pail but the lightening of a fire”.

How would your friends describe you? To others I am a multi-tasker, always busy. I’m a good friend who values true friendship. My work is not 9-5, which I realise that to some of my friends and even my family, is a bit strange. My mother often asks “why don’t you just finish the PhD and get a real job”.

But I find the work that I do is very rewarding and good fun also. Of course I’m not always working, I love the glass of red wine or two, glasses of course, and having a laugh.

Recently I took up hill walking, if you count Mount Brandon a hill! Well the phrase ‘are we there yet’ springs to mind when I recall a cold February weekend when my friend and I were faced with a mixture of snow, sunshine and gale-force winds on our ascent up Mount Brandon. My initial enthusiasm was followed by the sheer pain of the climb coupled with the frustration of my lack of fitness. With my friend bounding ahead, it was as if she was on Duracell and I was on Aldi batteries! Everyone said that getting to the top of the mountain would be one of those life defining moments. Yes it was that, not in the way you would expect though. Of course being an amateur hill walker I didn’t bring the right gear, and as I stood at the top of the hill?? wondering how many fingers I would be left with following severe frost bite, my friend handed me her gloves. Yes it was life defining, reminding me that the most important things in life are not at the top of a mountain or even climbing to get there, they are already in your life... you just need to be mindful of them.

What are your passions in life? I will never forget the first time I taught a tutorial class in UCC, very nervous of course, usual stuff that we all experience, all those wonderful negative thoughts that love to yank at our self confidence. The strange thing was when I started, it felt as if I had been doing it all my life, it was just right and I haven’t looked back. I now run courses in adult education throughout Kerry, for UCC. It goes to show that a person cannot dictate their destiny but can steer it in a certain direction.

I am really passionate about my work having met and worked with many fantastic, energetic, inspirational people. My teaching experience and community work are coming together recently in the development of new training programme ‘Peer Support’ for people who experience mental health difficulties. The team on the project are an example of how well the statutory and voluntary sectors can work together when people have similar motivations and aspirations for progress and change.

I can’t talk about my passions in life without giving the family a mention, more Modern Family than Brady Bunch. My children are now grown up but we still enjoy going on holidays together and days out together. We have recently discovered Wii dance which is great fun.

Why did you get involved in your local Mental Health Association?I got involved in my local Mental Health Association by chance. While sitting in a hospital waiting area I spotted a photo on the back page of Mensana News. It was a picture of a neighbour of mine who was attending a mental health function at one of the group homes in Tralee. I met her days later and she invited me to attend a MHA meeting. That was in 2004 and I have been involved with them since that date.

Getting to know you…Brenda Healy, Tralee MHA

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Have you any ideas on how to recruit and retain volunteers for local MHAs?I believe that it is important to encourage people who have used or use mental health services to participate more in MHA activities at committee level. MHA’s have an excellent opportunity to enrich and enhance people’s lives through community participation. MHA’s can also learn from people who have used the services. MHI are developing their website and now include a Volunteer Zone that provides a forum for shared learning between MHA’s across the country.

There are a lot of new ideas around the country in developing Peer Resources for service users. MHAs are playing an important role in supporting such resources...so click on and join in the conversation!!

Last book you read?The most recent book I read was Eat, Pray, Love, by Elizabeth Gilbert. A good friend gave it to me. I have to admit I’m not a great person for reading novels testimony to the four books I have at my bedside with bookmarks half way through in all of them.

Most of my reading material has an academic perspective. My PhD takes a historical lens into constructions of madness in Ireland from a pre-modern to a modern timeframe. In order to understand the present we need to grasp the past. Karl Marx once wrote “Men make their own history, but they do not make it just as they please; they do not make it under circumstances chosen by themselves, but under circumstances directly encountered, given and transmitted from the past”.

What was the last restaurant you ate in and would you return? My husband and I love Kenmare. We stay at a local guesthouse Davitts which has excellent food and hospitality. Kenmare reminds me a little of Tralee of many years ago, when the pace was slower and walking at night was safe. I must admit though that I am spoiled when it comes to cooking which is something I avoid if at all possible. Fortunately my husband loves to cook; he also grows his own vegetables and fruit.

What is the best piece of advice you have ever received? My friend who now lives in Australia once said to me that I always bounce back, regardless of what life throws at me. Having reflected on what she said many times in my life I realise that being resilient is a resource. It was a simple thing to say at the time but it stuck with me over the years. When life events and relationships get me down I think of her insight and it perks me up. Yes looking back I do see myself with good wellness tools.

And the worst?Perms are the way to go... fortunately it was the 80’s and we all followed the crowd. You wouldn’t leave the house without a back comb and shoulder pads. Now in 2012 I think I’ve moved on...thank God we didn’t have Facebook back then!

What advice would you offer on how to deal with the stress of living in Ireland today?I do believe in the power of positive thought. To me worry is a waste of energy, disempowering us and replacing good energy with anxiety and sometimes even depression. It is important to learn to live in the now, we can’t change the past and have limited control over the future.

It is very easy to get caught up in societal expectations and consumerist values. If we have learned anything from the recent economic downturn it is that we should focus on the important things in life. When we give that some thought and reflection we find that our priorities are not of a material nature. They are much more simple things like having a chat with the neighbour, sharing a joke at the dinner table, hill walking if you prepare well.

What car do you drive? I drive a Volkswagen Passat, dark green, turbo boost engine....gorgeous car. I drive a lot so I feel I deserve a stylish car. I love to listen to Newstalk on the radio while driving, Moncrief is great, he covers everything from farmers journal to ‘man pretends to be his dead mother’.

You win 2 million in the lottery next week, what would you do? If I won the lottery I would become a social entrepreneur. Yes Dragons Den for social projects.

The editorial team in Mensana House is looking for Volunteers to be interviewed for our next edition of "Getting to know you" in Mensana News.

Please contact us if you are interested at [email protected] or call 01 284 1166.

Ted Tierney, Editor.

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Sudoku Puzzle

Sudoku Solution

Crossword Puzzle

Across1. Metallic element (4)3. Fruit (5)8. Insular (9)9. Bend (5)10. Female relative (4)14. Portent (4)15. System of reasoning (5)18. With identity concealed (9)20. Proverb (5)21. Jealousy (4)

Down1. Nothing (4)2. Roman counterpart of Greek Poseidon

(7)4. Step (4)5. Garland (3)6. Courageous (5)7. Arboreal mammal (5)11. Imaginary creature (7)12. Poisonous (5)13. Subject (5)16. Highly excited (4)17. Diminutive (4)19. Type of fish (3)

Crossword Solution

If you are looking for more crosswords and sudoku please check out www.puzzlechoice.com

Mind GymHow to play: The numbers 1 through 9 will appear once only in each row, column, and 3x3 zone. There are 9 such zones in each Sudoku grid. There is only one correct solution to each Sudoku. Good luck!

Subscription Application FormI wish to become a subscriber to Mensana News and to have my name placed on your mailing list to receive the magazine plus other MHI publications.

I enclose a cheque/postal order for €7.00 made payable to MHI. Alternatively, you can access Mensana News and other applications on our website.

Name: _________________________________________________________ (Please print)

Address: _________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

Email: _________________________________________________________

Date: _________________________

#

Mensana NewsProduction Team

Ted Tierney Deputy CEO

Treasa HanniffyAdministrative Officer

Lisa ManleyAdministrative Officer

Further information is available on our website; www.mentalhealthireland.ie MHI reserves the right to edit submitted materials/information.

Mental Health IrelandMensana House, 6 Adelaide Street, Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin Tel: 01-2841166 Fax: 01-2841736

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.mentalhealthireland.ie

Mensana News is published by Mental Health Ireland. MHI is a national voluntary organisation which aims to promote positive mental health and to actively support persons with a mental illness, their families and carers by identifying their needs and advocating their rights. Mental Health Ireland is made up of a network of 104 local Mental Health Associations (MHAs) throughout the country who are affiliated to and share the same aims and objectives as the national body. Mental Health Ireland is affiliated to Mental Health Europe and the World Federation for Mental Health.

ContributionsMensana News is your communication with local MHAs and other Associations.

We want to hear about what you are doing and any exciting iniatives you are involved in.

Why not put pen to paper and let us know what you are doing in your area to promote mental health. Are you involved:

- in fund-raising?- trying to educate the public? - with young people? - helping to run and organise community residences?

If you are, don’t keep it to yourself - tell us about it.

Articles, photographs, comments and suggestions are all welcome.

Please forward by email to [email protected] or by post at the address above.

Calendar of Events Event: World Suicide Prevention Day Date: 10th September 2012Location: NationwideContact: Ted Tierney / Treasa Hanniffy

Event: World Mental Health Day Date: 10th October 2012Location: NationwideContact: Ted Tierney / Treasa Hanniffy

Very Important Reminder Notice for all Mental Health Associations and Volunteers Please submit information on events and activities for World Mental Health Week which you will be scheduling for October 2012. Contact your local Development Officer or Treasa Hanniffy at [email protected] with the details.

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Mensana News Summer 2012

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Transcript of Mensana News Summer 2012