Mental health training for local groups

The course was delivered by Rosemary Daly, Senior Health Promotion Officer (Workplaces), and Nuala Quinn, Protect Life Co-ordinator, with the Trust’s Promoting Wellbeing Team.

“This two day course develops an understanding of the most common mental health problems that can affect anyone,” explained Rosemary.

“The training can help caregivers deal with many situations such as understanding mental health and mental illness, self-help strategies and details of the many sources of help and support.

“Most of the mental health services in our area are provided in the community by health and social care staff in partnership with voluntary and community groups with a focus on support and recovery.

“Our aim is to support people with mental health problems to remain independent and reduce the need for their hospital admission.”

Nuala added that sometimes people can feel overwhelmed and in distress.

“It is important to be able to ask for support to help you through these times when you feel overwhelmed stressed.

“ We recommend five tips to help people be mindful of their mental health.

“These are to connect, be active, take notice, keep learning and to give.”

Advice being offered includes connecting with people, keeping active, keep learning and trying new things and do something special for someone else or volunteer your time, which can be incredibly rewarding.

“Connect with the people around you, with family, friends, colleagues and neighbours,” advised the Trust. “Think of these relationships as the cornerstones of your life and invest time in developing them.

“Building these connections will support and enrich you every day.”

If you are in distress or despair, or concerned about someone you know, call Lifeline free on 0808 808 8000.

Lifeline is a 24 hour helpline that can put the caller in touch with support services.

The Protect Life Resource Service is available in the Southern Trust for those who wish to access to information. Mental Health First Aid training is organised regularly for community and voluntary groups.

For further information and details of other training and support, contact Action Mental Health on 028 3839 2314 or PIPS Newry and Mourne on 028 3026 6195.