The HSE, Mayo Council Council and The Movement Gym, are working in partnership to bring the messages of protection, resilience and support for mental wellness to local communities in Mayo.
The partnership is keen to increase efforts to normalise the conversation around mental health in Mayo and in this regard, has partnered to promote the HSE #littlethings campaign, by displaying evidence based information posters in the new Lough Lannagh swimming pool and gym.
The #littlethings campaign highlights that we all experience difficult times in our lives, and that when we do, there are some evidence-based little things that can make a big difference to how we feel.
This new partnership provides a highly visible and exciting way to encourage and normalise discussion around mental health and fitness. By placing that discussion in a familiar leisure and exercise environment the aim is that people will be more receptive to the messages and stories about mental health. Building personal as well as community resilience and empowering people to reach out for support when needed, is an important protective factor for mental health.
Charlie Meehan, Head of Service for Mental Health, said: "We are very proud of the partnership and commitment from the Mayo County Council, The Movement Gym and from across the mental health sector, upon which this campaign was founded.
"Our aim is simple – we want people to learn about the evidence-based little things that can make a big difference to our mental health. We all experience difficult times in our lives, and when we do, these simple, proven steps will really help to get us back on an even keel and protect our wellbeing. And if we need them, there are also supports and services we can use if we need to, and all are listed on our new www.yourmentalhealth.ie website."
Speaking at the launch, Andy Moran director of the Movement Gym added: "The Movement Gym has always played a role in promoting health and wellbeing amongst its members. We have a duty of care to our members and we want to provide them with practical support to help them to be better able to look after their mental health. I welcome this partnership with the HSE in promoting health and wellbeing among our members. There is strength in numbers and together we can reach more people to change attitudes and behaviour towards mental health."
Peter Hynes, Mayo County Council chief executive said: "The #littlethings campaign helps to highlight the importance of protecting our mental health. We are delighted to be taking part in the development and rollout of this campaign and are proud of the partnership and commitment that has gone into the creation of this campaign in the new developed swimming pool and gym in Lough Lannagh. We fully support this effort to help promote positive mental health."
