Sunday 10th October marks World Mental Health Day 2021! The World Health Organisation recognises World Mental Health Day on this date every year. The overall objective of World Mental Health Day is to raise awareness of mental health issues around the world and to mobilize efforts in support of mental health. The day provides an opportunity for all stakeholders working on mental health issues to talk about their work, and what more needs to be done to make mental health care a reality for people worldwide. (WHO)

As we approach World Mental Health Day 2021, let’s take a look at some exciting events and programmes that you can get involved in to show your support and look after your own mental health too. Stay tuned to our social media channels on Sunday as we’re marking World Mental Health Day by climbing Slieve Donard! We’ll also be sharing advice from AWARE staff, volunteers and ambassadors on how to support others with mental illness.

What’s on this week?

Friday 8th October - 'Managing your mental health: moment by moment!'

This is an online session being delivered by life coach and AWARE Board Member, Helen McDonnell. This short informative session will give you tips on how to make small changes for your good mental health! Using a mix of mindfulness and Cognitive Behavioural Coaching, you will take away practical tools and an understanding that can make a real difference to your good mental health. The session takes place on zoom between 1pm- 2pm and is free with an optional donation to AWARE.

For more info and to register, click here.

To donate to AWARE, click here.

Saturday 9th October - AWARE Slieve Donard Trek

Join AWARE on Saturday 9th October 2021 and take on Slieve Donard to mark World Mental Health Day! Slieve Donard is the highest peak of the Mourne Mountains, a whopping 2789ft to be exact! The views from the summit are extraordinary and on a clear day, the Isle of Man, Wicklow, Donegal, Wales, and Scotland may be seen, as well as the long stretch of Newcastle Beach. The AWARE Slieve Donard Trek event is managed by LIFE mountain experts and guides who will be on hand to ensure this is a safe and enjoyable walk up Slieve Donard. Please remember to follow government guidelines on social distancing.

To find out more and to register, click here.

Sunday 10th October – World Mental Health Day - Cold Water Dip at Helen’s Bay

Our friends at Natural Resilience are getting people together this Sunday to celebrate World Mental Health Day with a dip in the sea at Helen’s Bay. Meet at the beach at 10am. All welcome!

Upcoming AWARE programmes

Why not mark World Mental Health Day by doing something for your own mental health? AWARE has a variety of online awareness programmes to give you the tools for better mental health!

Living Life to the Full

A 6-week online life skills programme that uses Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) techniques to teach participants skills for managing difficult emotions, stress and anxiety.

To see upcoming courses, click here.

Mood Matters for Adults

This is a 2-hour mental health awareness session open to anyone over 18 who wants to learn more about mental health and how to manage it.

To see upcoming courses, click here.