Benefit of ‘little things’ to mental health highlighted

A new mental health initiative highlights the “little things” people can do in their daily life to maintain their mental equilibrium.

The #littlethings campaign from the HSE’s National Office for Suicide Prevention was created in partnership with more than 20 organisations active in the mental health area. It includes television and radio advertising as well as a strong online presence.

The campaign marks a move away from previous HSE campaigns by stressing that mental health issues are a concern for all of us, and not just those who have sought help when in distress.

Taoiseach tweet

Minister of State at the

Department of Health

Kathleen Lynch said this approach would normalise the way people approach mental health and live their lives each day.

Taoiseach Enda Kenny demonstrated his interest in the initiative by returning to Twitter on Sunday night to tweet about the #littlethings launch.

The little things at the centre of the initiative are defined as acts of “self-care” proven to help us feel better and get through tough times. Examples cited include keeping active, talking about problems, doing things with others and eating healthily. The importance of drinking less alcohol, sleeping well and looking out for others is also emphasised.

Online resource

A new online resource, yourmentalhealth.ie, has been created to provide information on mental health, including support services.

National Office for Suicide Prevention director Gerry Raleigh described the initiative as "a campaign of hope that speaks to each of us directly as to the preventive measures we can take to help us navigate the choppy waters of life's experience".

Cavan Gaelic footballer Alan O'Mara, whose voice features on one of the advertisements, spoke yesterday of his positive experiences that followed when he spoke publicly last year about his battle with depression.