The HSE in Cork and Kerry has urged people to remember that free mental health supports are available for anyone struggling this holiday season.

Martin Ryan, resource officer for suicide prevention said help is there in many forms at all times, even over the holidays.

“This might be a challenging time and might bring up difficult emotions,” he said.

“We want to remind people that there is always someone available to talk to you, and you don’t have to feel alone.”

Many of these free services are open 24 hours a day, he added, with people on the other end of the phone ready to listen. “It takes strength to pick up the phone and ask for help, but remember that there is support available.”

He also advised people to pay extra attention to mental health at this time of year.

People can help themselves by eating healthy foods, taking exercise, and spending time with others as well, as cutting back on alcohol and making the effort to do fun activities.

“Our routines can be disrupted at this time of year, but it’s important to maintain a balance,” he advised.

“Things like good sleep and diet are the foundation of good mental health and wellbeing. In the midst of the busy season, remember to take some time to do something for you. Take half an hour, go for a walk, play a game, read a book, whatever you really enjoy. And 10 minutes of exercise, even a gentle walk, can make a big difference.”

HSE South West acknowledged the holidays can bring extra stresses and challenges ranging from emotional, financial, or personal, as well as loneliness for many.

It urged people to consider contacting these support services this winter, especially anyone feeling overwhelmed or in distress.

Meanwhile, the HSE also said that more 22,500 people have now signed up to the My Mental Health Plan can be accessed for free on the HSE website by anyone aged over 18.

Mental health contacts

The Samaritans on 116 123 — samaritans.ie
Pieta House on 1800 247 247 or text HELP to 51444 — see pieta.ie
Childline on 1800 666 666 — see childline.ie
Spunout.ie’s Text About It service is available by texting ‘hello’ to 50808.
Anyone in mental health distress should contact their GP during surgery hours, or for Cork and Kerry, the SouthDoc out-of-hours service on 0818 355 999. If someone is in immediate risk, contact the emergency services on 999 or 112.
HSE website yourmentalhealth.ie has tips and can signpost you to various supports.