2020 - 2021
IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT
Disability and Mental Health Community Inclusion Mental health impacts of COVID-19 The COVID-19 pandemic is a global health emergency, the scale, speed and nature of which is beyond anything most of us have experienced in our lifetimes. The mental health burden associated with this pandemic is also likely to surpass anything we have previously experienced. Lockdowns, physical distancing, protective mandatory measures combined with fear of contracting the virus, permanent and temporary job losses, relationship struggles, loneliness, boredom, and lifestyle changes (e.g. working from home, home schooling) have had an enormous impact on the psychosocial and economic well-being of the general population. Adapting to lifestyle changes has been particularly difficult for people with mental health conditions. Isolation, stress and financial strain are associated with adverse mental health outcomes.
Forest Bathing
A&B Participants of the Forest Bathing course in the Island Wood Newmarket which was led by Kerry Walker of the Nature Hub.
Looking for outdoor activities given the covid restrictions, the equality working group came across the work of the Nature Hub, and its founder Kerry Walker, who is a trained Forest Bathing Therapist. Forest Bathing, also known as “Shinrin-Yoku,” refers to the practice of spending time in nature for the purpose of enhancing health, wellness, and happiness. The practice follows the general principle that it is beneficial to spend time bathing in the atmosphere of the forest. The Japanese words translate into English as “Forest Bathing.” Forest Bathing walks are gentle guided walks that enhance wellbeing through sensory connection in nature. There is a strong evidence base supporting these walks. Forest Bathing or Shinrin-Yoku walks have been shown to reduce stress, lower blood pressure, improve mood, boost the immune system and improve sleep. In May, Duhallow’s first forest bathing walk was held in the Island Woods. Participants were encouraged to slow down and connect with their senses through various different invitations. Afterwards there was a tea gathering amongst the bluebells. The event proved extremely popular with further workshops planned in the future.
IRD Duhallow’s Towards Occupation Programme IRD Duhallow is in a unique position through its strong links and “connectedness” with communities to provide leadership and promote mental health and emotional wellbeing utilising an integrated approach. The Towards Occupation Programme is a free, confidential community based training initiative designed to support those who are unemployed as a result of mental ill Barry Clarke, TO participant reviewing his health to develop the skills and Personal Action Plan as part of IRD Duhallow’s Job Centre with Development confidence to move into Officer Stephanie Moynihan. employment, education, training, voluntary work or other directions.
IRD Duhallow’s Emotional Support & Counselling Service
TO Participants enjoying their activity session as part of the 8 week course “Promoting Resilience through the COVID-19 pandemic”
The part-time modular and flexible programme is delivered in the James O’Keeffe Institute, Newmarket and includes training opportunities in the areas of: Life Skills, Career Guidance, Craft Skills – Sewing and Upholstery, Horticulture and Cookery. The programme helps participants identify and develop their employment and educational goals in a positive and supportive environment. The programme includes skills training, employment planning, support and follow-up services. The recovery oriented programme encourages participants to adopt a healthier lifestyle and to widen their social networks. The person centered approach aims to provide each participant with the tools to set personal goals, learn coping skills and become more employable.
Counsellor Aoife Douglas and ICHAS Masters student Declan Sheehan who provide “Walk and Talk” counselling sessions as part of IRD Duhallow’s Emotional Support Service
This confidential, non-judgemental voluntary service was set up in April 2014 to offer an Emotional Support & Counselling service in the community for those who cannot afford to pay. The service currently has five voluntary Counsellors/Psychotherapists (made up of student and preaccredited therapists) who offer one-to-one emotional support & Counselling/Psychotherapy to anyone over the age of 18 affected by mental ill health. To date the service has provided one-to-one counselling to approximately 70 individuals within the community. The number of combined client hours (sessions) is in excess of 1000 hours. In addition emotional support and information about alternative supports is being provided to those who cannot attend the service for reasons such as age, need, suitability and availability. The service has been adapted to offer the service by alternative means (other than traditional inperson sessions) in order to ensure a safe environment for clients and therapists to receive and provide the Towards Occupation participants receiving their service throughout the certificate of achievement for successfully completing pandemic.
Brian Casey and Denis Keane attending a weekly session of the Towards Occupation Programme having had a long break during the Covid 19 restrictions.
an 8 week Wellbeing Training Course
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