Mental Health Services in Ireland - Where to get help

As I'm writing this blog from Ireland I thought I would summarise some of the services available for those who suffer from a mental health problem in Ireland.

Please note, if you have not been diagnosed with a mental illness but feel you need to find help your family doctor is usually the first person to approach in relation to mental health concerns. Your GP can then decide if they can treat you themselves or they may refer you to members of a mental health team. In an emergency situation when your GP is not available you may access the mental health services through your local mental health unit or hospital.

• AWARE - a voluntary organisation that aims to provide support group meetings for people with depression and manic depression and their families. They also run a helpline (Lo-Call: 1890 303 302) which is a non-judgmental listening service

• Schizophrenia Ireland - a national organisation dedicated to advocating for the rights and needs of those affected by schizophrenia and related illnesses and to promoting and providing best quality services for the people it serves. There are support groups for sufferers and their families around the country which meet on a monthly basis to discuss issues around schizophrenia and provide information and support for all. Helpline: 1890 621 631 (Mon-Fri 9-4, local call charge)

• Bodywhys - provides help, support and understanding for people with eating disorders, their families and friends through a helpline (Lo-call: 1890 200 444 ) and regular support groups.

• Out and About (OANDA) - national organisation for sufferers of agoraphobia. Ph. 01 - 833 8252

• GROW - an organisation which helps people who have suffered, or are suffering, from mental health problems. Its principal strength is the support members give to each other from their own experiences with mental health (network of more than 145 support groups throughout the country)