With the present circumstances of increased unemployment, uncertainty about our futures, stress, increases in the rate of suicidal behaviours and many other challenges, the notion of protecting and enhancing our mental health seems important and appropriate at this time. Recognising this the Nursing & Health Studies Department at St Angela’s College in partnership with the Mental Health Promotion Officer, HSE, , Mr Mike Rainsford, have developed a short programme of study on how to protect your own mental health or that of others.  This programme is offered to any member of the public or health care professional.

According to a recent report by the Department of Health and Children (2009), mental health is fundamental to good health and quality of life. It contributes to the functioning of individuals, families, communities and societies. ‘There is no health without mental health’ clearly conveys this positive sense of mental health. 

Mr Tom O’ Grady, Mental Health Nurse Lecturer at St Angela’s College, believes that people, when considering their overall health, often exclude or are unsure of how to care for their mental health. They may not be aware that there are many things they can do to reduce the effects of stress or enhance their coping ability so that life’s challenges are dealt with in as mentally healthy a way as possible.  

Mr Rainsford acknowledges that people are not inclined to discuss mental health as freely as other aspects of their overall health. He adds that this short programme facilitates more open discussion on this topic, which he says is the first step in reducing any perceived stigma. The importance of mental health promotion is acknowledged, not only for people who may have mental health difficulties, but also in schools, the workplace, in the home or in primary care services. Also, mental health promotion is important for all age groups from young children to the elderly.

This programme complements other modules and programmes linked to emotional health and communication at the college . The Post Graduate Diploma in Nursing (Community Mental Health) helps mental health nurses, who wish to work in a community setting to consider the skills and knowledge required for this challenging role. The college deliver the ASIST (suicide prevention) workshop to all undergraduate nursing students to ensure that they are in a position to support someone they meet either in their workplace or at a personal level who may be considering suicide. 

St Angela’s College is conscious of the part that mental health plays in the overall health of all of us and are striving to deliver programmes that will assist families and communities in the region look after theirs.