A new initiative has been launched by the HSE ahead of exam season, aimed at helping young people through difficult times.
Mind Monsters also aims to give adolescents and young people support on how to take care of their mental health, focussing on things known to cause stress and anxiety for young people.
The campaign highlights the benefits of taking study breaks, sleeping, sharing problems with trusted people and spending less time on electronic devices, and the impact it can have on your mental health.
Young people will be able to find personalised support options through a search tool on YourMentalHealth.ie, with a wealth of information also being supplied to schools across the country and capital.
Speaking about the campaign, Jim Daly, the Minister of State for Mental Health and Older People, said: “I am delighted that the HSE has launched this campaign for young people.
“It is very timely, considering that many are now preparing for or taking part in exams at school or at third level.
“Stress is a normal part of life and it affects us all, but at this time of year there can be a lot of pressure, particularly around exams.
“YourMentalHealth.ie is a great resource for young people who are experiencing anxiety and offers much needed information on where to go for support.
“I think that providing online supports for young people is a good way to ensure that any young person in need of help and advice can access it when and where they need it.”
Jim Ryan, HSE assistant national director for Mental Health Operations, said: “Developing this campaign was a great opportunity to collaborate with partner organisations as well as young people themselves on how best to address some of the issues they are facing today, such as exams or relationship difficulties.
“One of the best ways to deal with difficult emotions is to talk about them, but this isn’t always easy to do.
“We now have new content on YourMentalHealth.ie that was developed by and for young people.
“By providing information on these topics we wanted to empower young people to be able to tackle issues themselves and take proactive steps to mind their mental health.
“YourMentalHealth.ie also signposts a range of available supports and services. This campaign forms part of our efforts to deliver on our commitments under Connecting for Life, Ireland’s national strategy to reduce suicide,” he said.
