Tipperary people encouraged to reach out as part of national mental health campaign

People in Tipperary are being encouraged to ask Hello, How Are You? later this year in an attempt to promote talking about mental health.

Mental Health Ireland have launched their fourth annual Hello, How Are You? campaign, highlighting the importance of staying connected and helping to tackle loneliness to create a sense of belonging and build relationships.

It also encourages early help-seeking through reliable information on mental health support services and signposting. 

There are many ways to slow down and genuinely engage with a family member, friend or even a stranger. You don’t need to be an expert to have a meaningful conversation.

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"By using the HELLO Steps you can feel supported in asking the question. Let’s make saying Hello and asking How Are You? an everyday question that keeps us connected," Mental Health Ireland said.

People can connect by saying hello, engaging with the person, listening to them, learning about them and what they might be saying, and give them time to talk and to explore options.

The Hello, How Are You? campaign kicks off on May 15, with events taking place in communities across the county, from coffee mornings to fundraising challenges, there will be lots of ways for communities, schools and workplaces to get involved.

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Claire Flynn, national campaign lead said: “Since the first national campaign in 2022, the impact of Hello, How Are You? continues to grow and every year we’re seeing more meaningful conversations and social connections being made across Ireland. We continue to develop free literature, resources and training to grow the reach of the campaign and support events, and to work collaboratively with other organisations who are connecting communities in creative and impactful ways.

"On May 15th, we’re looking forward to seeing all the different ways the nation says Hello, How Are You? whether it is holding an event, joining a parkrun, or simply boiling the kettle and sitting down with a friend. It all starts with a simple question ‘How Are You?’," she said.