Media Central to Societal Mental Health Attitudes

When it comes to mental health, “communication is the only way” to overcome the darkness which has taken the lives of so many, Katie Byrne of The Irish Independent highlighted at the recent UCC Journalism Society’s conference.Following a panel discussion on political and gender bias within media, the event’s second discussion focused on the role of the media in increasing Ireland’s awareness of mental health. Panel chair Daniel Waugh highlighted that while 55% of Irish people will suffer, either directly or indirectly, from problems involving mental health, “we don’t have the language to speak about our problems.”

" The stigma that Irish people associate with mental health and counselling needs to be eradicated."

Waugh’s point was further echoed by Alan O’Mara of SpunOut, who spoke of his personal battle with depression and his decision to go public with his story. O’Mara told the audience to not be afraid to seek help, before highlighting that if Ireland’s support system for those mental health problems is to improve, the stigma that Irish people associate with mental health and counselling needs to be eradicated.The event also saw Elma Walsh, mother of Donal Walsh of the Live Life foundation give a harrowing account of how your mental health can affect others.As a mother she recounted the grief her family went through after Donal’s passing but also her pride at the young teenager’s attitude to life and campaign against suicide. She noted how important awareness of mental health issues is and how the Live Life campaign has helped so many people, old and young, in their struggles. Walsh told the audience that we all need to think of the consequences of our actions because “everyone’s life is both important and unique,” and even if we feel alone, we never truly are.