World Mental Health Day a vital reminder to check in on loved ones
By Denise Charlton
Introduction
World Mental Health Day has never been more important. This year’s theme: Mental Health for All, Greater Investment, Greater Access reminds us that this is an area where so much more work and progress is required.
The context in which we are marking the day in the midst of the Covid-19 Pandemic is also an urgent reminder to us all to take time to check in on each other. By doing so we can ensure that members of our families, our neighbours and other loved ones are okay and do not feel isolated, alone or depressed as we deal with extra restrictions.
Today we should all recommit to maintain these contacts, to drop a direct message, to send a text or to pick up the phone. When restrictions allow a friendly chat over a back wall, a wave through the window or when safe to do so a cup of tea could make all the difference, and really brighten someone’s day.
The frontline agencies we support at The Community Foundation for Ireland are reporting that people of all ages, genders and financial status are struggling with difficulties. Many genuinely fear that as the crisis evolves they will be forgotten or fall off the radar, this could lead to increased anxiety, isolation and depression.
We may think of these issues as impacting on older people, those in more rural areas or people living with disabilities. But the reality is health and wellbeing is an issue for all age groups.
It is true that school and college maybe back, but they are far from normal. Social interacting with friends is severely restricted. If your journey to school involves crossing from one county to another there is the prospect of enhanced Garda checkpoints. Something few would have thought children heading to classes would have to encounter.
RESPONDING TO URGENT NEED
At The Community Foundation for Ireland we have been listening to those working on the ground. We have been very fortunate in our ability to link donors and funding with organisations so that lifeline services can respond.
Already this year we have provided almost 100 grants in the area of Mental Health with a cash total now heading towards €500,000.
There are some great groups and it is right on this special day that we reflect on their commitment, passion and work.
The Limerick Mental Health Association is developing online classes, group meetings and phone calls to stay in touch. Our support is allowing the provision of tablets and video equipment to make this possible.
Autism Support Louth and Meath is being supported to allow its youth clubs to continue online. With our help the clubs have moved to Zoom with leaders also making regular phone calls, texts and sending whatsapp messages. This is keeping young people connected and prevents feelings of abandonment.
CARMHA recognises that not everyone is comfortable with technology. It is providing phone based services including peer support mentoring.
There are many more examples of organisations which we are proud to be supporting.
CONCLUSION
For almost 20-years The Community Foundation for Ireland, its donors and grantees have worked tirelessly towards our mission of equality for all in thriving communities. Achieving such a goal must include everyone. No-one must be left behind, no-one isolated and no-one forgotten.
This means supporting people through difficult periods of their lives. Checking in to ensure they are okay. It also means supporting frontline groups and those who campaign for better investment and services.
On this World Mental Health Day if you would like to play your part please visit the Giving Section of our website or contact us to talk about how you can support mental health. Thank you and take care.