Positive Mental Health begins in the community

Speaking during a visit to Áras Folláin peer support centre in Nenagh on Friday, Liadh Ní Riada commended the staff and volunteers of the facility and stated that promoting positive mental health is vital for the whole community. The Sinn Féin MEP paid a visit to the centre alongside Councillor Seamus Morris, where they were briefed on the work of the centre by coordinator Margo O’Donnell-Roche.

“Áras Folláin provides a terrific service for the people of Nenagh and beyond. It is open 7 days a week and provides a space for people to meet, talk or just be themselves, in a safe, supportive and caring environment. One in four of use will have difficulties with our mental health at some stage in our lives, and most of us will struggle with depression, anxiety or distress. It is important to know that there are spaces available where you can go to get support, whether that is professional help or just a cup of tea and a friendly ear.

“Áras Folláin hosts a number of peer support groups, including the Mums on the Move group, where mothers can meet and chat in confidence and give each other the support that is so vital to staying positive and getting through difficult and challenging situations.

“One of the volunteer coordinators of the mothers’ group, Lisa Maria Costen, took part in a delegation on mental health and wellbeing that I hosten in Brussels earleir this month. Over forty people, representing organisations such as Aware, Pieta House and the Irish Advocacy Network met with European mental health experts and representatives of the EU Commission.

“Prevention is always better than cure, and promoting positive mental health, building resilience, and ensuring that people have strong and accessible supports is so important. Community is so important to these three objectives, and this centre shows exactly how they can be achieved. I am determined to play my part in facilitating the tremendous work being done all over the country to promote positive mental health, and have promised my support to Áras Folláin as the centre grows and continues to serve its community.”