IRD Duhallow To Run Addiction Awareness Event

By BRÍGHID-ÍDE WALSH IRD Duhallow Development Officer

Recognising these issues, IRD Duhallow Youth and Education Working Group has organised an Addiction and Mental Health Awareness Event to promote inclusivity and understanding within our communities and to offer preventative supports to young people. Whether you’re seeking resources for yourself or a loved one or simply want to educate yourself this event is for you. It is suitable for anyone aged over 16 years of age.

This event holds significant importance in fostering understanding, support, and resources and will provide a platform for open dialogue, destigmatisation, and education surrounding addiction and mental health issues. Addressing these topics openly breaks down barriers to seeking help, reduces isolation and ultimately aims to improve outcomes for those affected by addiction and mental ill health.

Essential preventative supports will be discussed and can equip individuals with the knowledge, skills, and resources they need to make informed choices and maintain their well-being. This proactive event will educate people about the risks associated with addiction and mental health challenges, empowering them to recognise warning signs, seek help when needed, and make healthier decisions.

On the night we will have a panel of expert speakers including addiction counsellors, people with lived experience of addiction and An Garda Síochana, who will discuss addiction and mental health topics with time for a Q&A and discussion also.

The event will take place on Tuesday 28th May at 7pm in the James O’Keeffe Institute, Newmarket. For more information please contact brighid-ide.walsh@irdduhallow.com or call 02960633.

Our panel of speakers:

Ciarán Carey

Ciarán Carey is an addiction counsellor and specialist with vast experience in the field of addiction and recovery. He himself is in recovery from alcohol for 14 years. Beyond his professional expertise, Ciarán’s background of playing intercounty hurling for Limerick and his experience managing both county and club teams offer valuable insights from within the sporting community. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain insights from Ciarán’s dual perspective as a psychotherapist and a former athlete.

Brenda Dennehy

Brenda Dennehy has a background as a TV producer, journalist, and podcast host, and brings a unique blend of professional expertise and personal experience to the discussion.

She recently shared her own battle with addiction and its nearfatal consequences. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain understanding and inspiration from Brenda’s courageous story.

Tony O’Reilly

Tony O Reilly is the co-author of ‘Tony10’, the bestselling and awardwinning book that tells the story of Tony’s compelling journey through gambling addiction and eventual recovery. With a deeply personal perspective, he offers invaluable insights into the challenges faced by individuals, families, and communities impacted by problem gambling and is now a counsellor and psychotherapist that specialises in gambling addiction. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain profound understanding and inspiration from Tony’s story of resilience and advocacy.