There are people to talk to in Limerick and the Mid-West over the Christmas holidays

CHRISTMAS can be a dark and challenging time for some, but there will be supports available over the holidays for those who need a non-judgemental listening ear. 

While for many, Christmas is a time for connecting, family and celebration - for others it can trigger stress, financial concerns, loneliness and emotional strain. 

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If you or someone you know is in crisis or needs someone to talk to, help is at hand. A range of phone lines - many free and open 24/7 - as well as online mental health resources, are available throughout the Christmas period. A full list of mental health supports is available at www.yourmentalhealth.ie.

Solace Café is an out-of-hours, friendly, and supportive community-based adult crisis prevention and crisis support service, operating in the evenings and on weekends in a café style, non-clinical safe environment.

It offers social, peer and crisis support and recovery-based services. Regular opening hours are Thursday - Sunday 6pm to midnight. The cafe will be closed on Christmas Day, St Stephen's Day and New Years Day. 

Solace Café is suitable for people in distress, or those feeling isolated, anxious, or overwhelmed. Anyone at immediate risk of harm or requiring urgent medical help should call 999/112 or go to their nearest emergency department.

To book a one-hour appointment at Solace Café, phone 061 446786, email solacecafe@limerickmentalhealth.ie or text (085) 2612025. 

HSE Mid-West are encouraging people to take moments over the holidays to mind their mental health. 

They are advising people to phone or text someone to check in, treat people with kindness and be kind to yourself. 

They also advise people to try something they used to enjoy, take notice of their surroundings using all five senses

The HSE is also highlighting Balancing Stress, a free online programme developed by psychologists and mental health professionals. The programme offers short video sessions - around 35 minutes each - that can be accessed any time.

Using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and positive psychology, the programme helps people to understand stress, manage worry and anxiety, cope with low mood, support relationships, and build resilience. It also includes practical breathing and relaxation techniques.

The programme is available at www.hse.ie/balancingstress and may be useful to dip into during the holiday period.

Mick Collins, resource officer, Office for Suicide Prevention, HSE Mid-West mental health services said: “Christmas can be a joyful time, but it can also be challenging for many. If you or someone you know is struggling, please remember that help is always available. Whether you reach out to a helpline or are taking some smaller Winter wellness steps to look after your mental health, support is available. Please don’t be alone - help is at hand.”

For more information on mental health supports and tips for staying well, visit www.yourmentalhealth.ie or phone 1800 111 888.

Some key phone numbers to keep at hand include:

·         Shannondoc out-of-hours GP service (0818 123 500, 6pm–8am, Monday – Friday; 24 hours on weekends and public holidays)

·         Samaritans provide 24/7 emotional support to anyone in emotional distress, struggling to cope or at risk of suicide (116 123)

·         ISPCC Childline, 24/7 free helpline for children up to 18 years old

(1800 66 66 66 and live chat at www.childline.ie)

·         50808 is a free 24/7 text service providing everything from a calming chat to immediate support (text YMH to 50808 to begin)