<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?>
<rss version="2.0"
	xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/"
	xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/"
	xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/"
	xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom"
	xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/"
	xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/"
	>

<channel>
	<title>ReachOut.com &#187; Help a friend</title>
	<atom:link href="http://ie.reachout.com/help-a-friend/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
	<link>http://ie.reachout.com</link>
	<description>Reach Out provides information on stress, anxiety, bullying, suicide, depression, bipolar and other issues that can affect your mental health and well-being.</description>
	<lastBuildDate>Wed, 19 Jun 2013 16:38:40 +0000</lastBuildDate>
	<language>en-US</language>
	<sy:updatePeriod>hourly</sy:updatePeriod>
	<sy:updateFrequency>1</sy:updateFrequency>
	<generator>http://wordpress.org/?v=3.5.1</generator>
		<item>
		<title>Father&#8217;s (Hallmark) Day 2013</title>
		<link>http://ie.reachout.com/2013/06/14/fathers-hallmark-day-2013/</link>
		<comments>http://ie.reachout.com/2013/06/14/fathers-hallmark-day-2013/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 14 Jun 2013 15:43:37 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Thomas</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Communication]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Family relationships]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://ie.reachout.com/?p=10338</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Father's Day could be the perfect Hallmark occasion, but even the happiest families have their problems and disagreements.]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong><a href="http://ie.reachout.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/abstred2sm.jpg"><img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-10339" alt="Abstract by Nicki Paulie" src="http://ie.reachout.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/abstred2sm-257x300.jpg" width="257" height="300" /></a>This Sunday is Father’s Day. A chance to express gratitude and thanks for all your dad has done. Or if your father is no-longer with you, then it might be a <a href="http://ie.reachout.com/inform-yourself/loss-and-grief/managing-special-occasions/">day of remembrance</a>.</strong></p>
<h2>Marking the occasion</h2>
<p>What we all do for Father’s Day will vary. Maybe you buy your old man dinner, or a token present. If you don’t live nearby you send thoughts in a card. Or, as in my case, you annually forget all about it, and so have to buy a belated, elaborate gift instead.</p>
<h2>Not always easy</h2>
<p>You could come from a family where there is pressure to acknowledge Father’s and Mother’s Days, or else your family turns its nose up at these ‘Hallmark holidays’.  Whatever situation you’re in, one thing we all have in common is that relationships with our parents and families are not always easy.</p>
<p>We’ve all seen Brady Bunch type dramas on TV that sometimes make us question our own family life. No matter how happy a family appears on the surface though, at some point everyone has disagreements. It’s worth remembering that all households have their own issues.</p>
<h2>Causes of conflict</h2>
<p>While all problems vary, often the root causes can be similar. <a href="http://ie.reachout.com/inform-yourself/family-and-friends/family-relationships/conflict-with-your-parents-or-guardians/">Conflict with parents or guardians</a> can stem from differences in the generations, or a feeling that they don’t understand you. Maybe there are boundary problems, or disagreements on the amount of freedom you each think you should be allowed.</p>
<p>Pressure to behave a certain way or live up to expectations (real or perceived) can cause stress too – especially around exam time as many of us have probably just experienced.</p>
<h2>How to deal with disputes</h2>
<p>Often just taking a breath and counting to 10 can calm a situation down, or help how you deal with it, at least in the short-term. <a href="http://ie.reachout.com/inform-yourself/family-and-friends/communication/tips-for-effective-communication/">Communicating effectively</a>, taking the time to talk things through at the right moment, and trying not to jump to conclusions can also help to ease tensions.</p>
<h2>Seeing the bigger picture</h2>
<p>It’s worth remembering that parents and guardians are people too. Despite appearances they’re probably not being antagonistic for the sake of it. They most likely have their own worries and burdens which might be affecting their behaviour with you. Simply agreeing to disagree could be a way of negotiating peace with your family.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://ie.reachout.com/2013/06/14/fathers-hallmark-day-2013/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Men&#8217;s Health Week 2013</title>
		<link>http://ie.reachout.com/2013/06/11/mens-health-week-2013/</link>
		<comments>http://ie.reachout.com/2013/06/11/mens-health-week-2013/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 11 Jun 2013 11:38:22 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Thomas</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Communication]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Family and friends]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Minding your mental health]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://ie.reachout.com/?p=10294</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[International men's health week is a good time to take up healthy habits and put words into actions.]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong><a href="http://ie.reachout.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/mhw2013postersmall.jpg"><img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-10286" alt="men's health week ireland" src="http://ie.reachout.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/mhw2013postersmall-212x300.jpg" width="212" height="300" /></a>This week is <a href="http://www.mhfi.org/mhw/mhw-2013.html">International Men’s Health Week</a>, landing at the same time as the release of Man of Steel, the new superman film.</strong></p>
<h2><strong>Action men</strong></h2>
<p>“Action Men: Turning Words into Action” could be a slogan for the superman movie, but is actually Ireland’s theme for men’s health week.</p>
<p>This couldn’t be more appropriate. Who doesn’t have a father, uncle or brother that doesn’t pay attention to aches and pains and refuses to ‘take action’ and get them checked out?</p>
<p>For that matter, who amongst us can say we don’t need more exercise, less junk-food and to keep an eye on the multiplying alcohol units each weekend? Thinking and saying we know how to lead healthier lives isn’t the same as leading them. This is as true for our mental well-being as it is for physical health.</p>
<h2>What would Clark Kent do?</h2>
<p>No matter what the weather it’s time to change those bad habits. Eat a few more vegetables and spend a bit more time outside. Hopefully we’ll get more of that unseasonal sunshine, but if we don’t, we should ask ourselves whether a little rain would stop Clark Kent?</p>
<p>Learning to ‘take action’ with your mental health by doing your best to <a href="http://ie.reachout.com/getting-help/minding-your-mental-health/">look after it</a>, is important. But, it&#8217;s also important to know how to get through <a title="Coping with a stressful event" href="http://ie.reachout.com/getting-help/minding-your-mental-health/coping-with-a-stressful-event/">a stressful period</a>, or even what to do when you&#8217;re just <a href="http://ie.reachout.com/inform-yourself/depression/feeling-crap/">feeling a bit crap</a>.</p>
<h2>Communicate</h2>
<p>Sometimes when going through a tough time, talking can be the action that&#8217;s needed. How we talk to someone can make a huge difference in dealing with problems. But opening up can be hard. Brush up on some <a href="http://ie.reachout.com/help-a-friend/communication/">effective communication tips.</a></p>
<p>Improving communications with ourselves is also a necessary part of any mission, or just the ups and downs of life. A bit of positive<a href="http://ie.reachout.com/getting-help/minding-your-mental-health/self-talk/"> self-talk</a>, giving negative comparisons a rest and not reducing everything to black and white can make everyday living easier.</p>
<h2>We’re not all men of steel</h2>
<p>It’s important to remember that while we might not all be superheroes, that doesn’t mean we don’t have the power to change our own destiny and put those words into action.</p>
<p>Men’s health week runs until Sunday, 16 June with <a href="http://www.mhfi.org/mhw/mhw-2013.html">events around the country</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://ie.reachout.com/2013/06/11/mens-health-week-2013/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Two-way conversation about mental health</title>
		<link>http://ie.reachout.com/2013/05/01/two-way-conversation-about-mental-health/</link>
		<comments>http://ie.reachout.com/2013/05/01/two-way-conversation-about-mental-health/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 01 May 2013 16:34:58 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Naoise</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Communication]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://ie.reachout.com/?p=10060</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Today marks the beginning of the Green Ribbon campaign to get Ireland talking about mental health. So let's get talking, but also, let's know how to listen.  ]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Today marks the beginning of the Green Ribbon campaign to get Ireland talking about mental health. Let’s get this conversation started, right? </strong></p>
<p><a href="http://ie.reachout.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/greenribbon.png"><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-10061" alt="Green Ribbon" src="http://ie.reachout.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/greenribbon.png" width="179" height="250" /></a>When I was 14 years-old my best friend told me, “If someone asks you ‘How’s it going?’ You’re supposed to say ‘Fine.’ not ‘Well not great actually, because…’ the way you do”.</p>
<p>It was meant to be a valuable social lesson in how to fit in. In a way, it was, as not everyone needs to know what’s going wrong and why at any given time.</p>
<p>A hundred ways to ask “How are you?” But, there’s only one way to answer; “Grand”. That’s us, that’s the Irish way apparently.</p>
<h2>Encouraging conversation</h2>
<p>With ReachOut.com, and campaigns like Green Ribbon, we try to encourage conversation, get a dialogue going about mental health. But by the same token, we need to make sure we know how and when to listen.</p>
<p>Most of us recognise that <a href="http://ie.reachout.com/getting-help/face-to-face-help/things-you-need-to-know/benefits-of-talking-to-someone/">talking about tough times</a> is important. Getting things out in the open can be the best thing for you. Don’t bottle things up. But, who you open up to and how you do it is equally as important.</p>
<h2>Who you talk to</h2>
<p>Talking doesn’t have to be about going to see a <a href="http://ie.reachout.com/getting-help/face-to-face-help/services-explained/counselling/">counsellor</a> or a <a href="http://ie.reachout.com/getting-help/face-to-face-help/services-explained/general-practice-family-doctors/">doctor</a>, though great if you can. It’s not an option for a lot of us. It can be expensive or there maybe none near you. You may have had a bad experience with one, or you just didn’t feel you could open up to them. It happens.</p>
<p>Family or friends can be just as helpful. So we can also be support for our friends and family. Therefore, how we are when someone opens up to us is very important.</p>
<h2>How to listen</h2>
<p>You could be the first person your friend or family member approach when going through something tough and so you need to be as understanding as possible. There are <a href="http://ie.reachout.com/help-a-friend/communication/how-to-listen/">useful ways to listen</a> to someone to make them feel heard and understood.</p>
<p>If someone tells you at three in the morning after a rake of drinks that they’ve been struggling a bit recently, you could be the first person they&#8217;ve told. Acknowledge it, but, maybe suggest talking about it again, when you’re able to take it in better and give them the time.</p>
<h2>Clear expression</h2>
<p>There are <a href="http://ie.reachout.com/help-a-friend/communication/tips-for-communicating-effectively-with-your-friend/">effective ways to communicate</a> that we all could do with knowing, to make sure we all express ourselves clearly. Remember, it can also be quite overwhelming when someone opens up to you for the first time, so make sure you look after yourself too.</p>
<p>My friend was right, even though it&#8217;s not really what she meant, but there can be a better time and place. Let’s get everyone talking about mental health and let’s be ready and know how to listen. </p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://ie.reachout.com/2013/05/01/two-way-conversation-about-mental-health/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>When tragedy strikes</title>
		<link>http://ie.reachout.com/2013/04/16/when-tragedy-strikes/</link>
		<comments>http://ie.reachout.com/2013/04/16/when-tragedy-strikes/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 16 Apr 2013 18:44:47 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Vicky</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Loss and grief]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://ie.reachout.com/?p=9965</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Tragedy comes in all different forms; sometimes it's close to home and sometimes, it's thousands of miles away, yet we still feel its impact. Vicky writes about the effect of the coverage of the Boston bombings.]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Tragedy comes in all different forms; sometimes it&#8217;s close to home and sometimes, it&#8217;s thousands of miles away, yet we still feel its impact. Vicky writes about the effect of the coverage of the Boston bombings.</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://ie.reachout.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/ssgcircle.jpg"><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-9969" alt="paved circle" src="http://ie.reachout.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/ssgcircle.jpg" width="280" height="242" /></a>The bomb explosions at the Boston Marathon on Monday shocked the world. Word began to spread around 7pm Irish time that an incident had occurred.</p>
<p>As details emerged of deaths and injuries, many Irish people scrambled to find out if their loved ones in the city were safe.</p>
<h2>Sharing the news</h2>
<p>But it wasn&#8217;t only those with a nearest and dearest in the city that felt despair and sorrow over the event. Twitter and Facebook exploded with information &#8211; some of which was extremely graphic &#8211; and shaky details on what had happened.</p>
<p>No matter who you are, from what walk of life, some of the footage of the carnage of the attacks has been harrowing and disturbing.  </p>
<h2>Graphic imagery</h2>
<p>Ethically, this information shouldn&#8217;t be so freely available. As a journalism student, part of my training was to learn how to deal with graphic and grotesque images of war and violence because the hard truth is, you&#8217;re going to be confronted with this in your job. But even with training, it doesn&#8217;t make it any less shocking when I click a link to a picture and see a detailed image of a victim&#8217;s damaged body.</p>
<p>The truth is, the world&#8217;s a scary place. There are lots of dangerous people in our shared societies. While we&#8217;re still not aware of who specifically carried out this attack, no explanation will provide solace for those, all of us, who have been touched by this tragedy.</p>
<h2>Feeling empathy</h2>
<p>Remember being affected by a story like this &#8211; or any sad news story for that matter &#8211; doesn&#8217;t make you strange, even if it doesn&#8217;t have a direct impact on your life. Part of our humanity is the ability to feel empathy and sympathy for those in difficult situations. I imagine if you ask most people their feelings on this story, they would reflect a similar view.</p>
<h2>Expressing your feelings</h2>
<p>It&#8217;s OK to talk about the effect that scary world events like this can have own your own feelings. There&#8217;s nothing &#8220;weak&#8221; or &#8220;soft&#8221; about expressing them or being horrified at some of the information being broadcast. They&#8217;re not feelings that should be bottled up. Allow yourself to feel, how you feel, when you&#8217;re feeling it.</p>
<p>While tragedy touches our lives in different ways, it&#8217;s something we all share.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://ie.reachout.com/2013/04/16/when-tragedy-strikes/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Learning to open up in the world of sport</title>
		<link>http://ie.reachout.com/2013/04/04/learning-to-open-up-in-the-world-of-sport/</link>
		<comments>http://ie.reachout.com/2013/04/04/learning-to-open-up-in-the-world-of-sport/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 04 Apr 2013 12:56:21 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Naoise</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Anxiety, panic and shyness]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Suicide and self-harm]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://ie.reachout.com/?p=9873</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Colm, an avid sports fan, is not only entertained but any kind of sport going, but encouraged by a new honesty about mental health, showing the human-side in the sporting world.]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Colm, an avid sports fan, is not only entertained but any kind of sport going, but encouraged by a new honesty about mental health, showing the human-side in the sporting world.</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://ie.reachout.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/footballskittles.jpg"><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-9878" alt="football skittles" src="http://ie.reachout.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/footballskittles.jpg" width="300" height="190" /></a>I think it’s fair to say that I am a bit of sports fanatic. I will watch any form of sport. I feel moved and involved by it and even begin to support and take sides. I am in awe of these exceptionally talented individuals who perform week-in week-out at the highest level.</p>
<p>Van Persie tapping in goals left right and center (not too much of late to be fair), the Killkenny hurler making the sport look like child’s play (as a cork person I find this very hard to admit), BOD making every last ditched tackle and definitely earning his place on a third lions tour, McIrory and Woods making every shot count at the masters this weekend or even Djokovic showing the world why he is the new Federar, I love all of them. There’s something about watching these amazing individuals that makes you forget they’re human.</p>
<h2>Shaking the football world</h2>
<p>Something happened just over a year and a half ago that rattled the football world; the tragic death of Gary Speed by <a title="When someone takes their own life" href="http://ie.reachout.com/inform-yourself/suicide-and-self-harm/when-someone-takes-their-own-life/">suicide</a>. This was completely unexpected and shocked fans and players alike. His death unearthed something that appeared to have a brooding in the sport for quite a long time; the need to finally open up about mental health issues.</p>
<p>Not isolated to soccer, the shift in the GAA’s attitude and openness towards mental health is becoming ever apparent. This was brought to the for-front primarily after All Ireland winning-senior footballer Noel O’Leary’s brother tragically took his own life.</p>
<h2>Relief in opening up</h2>
<p>Even ex-Munster and Ireland’s rugby player Alan Quilinan has openly admitted to having had difficulty dealing with <a title="What is depression?" href="http://ie.reachout.com/videos/help-a-friend/mental-health-difficulties/what-is-depression/">depression</a>. He has discussed the nervousness he felt at opening up about the topic, and how relieving it was to finally talk about it.</p>
<h2>Being human</h2>
<p>I think it’s exceptionally humanising to think that people with such incredible talent on the sporting field are also the very same people who can and do experience mental health problems. Perhaps what is even more impressive is how open these individuals have been about their experiences.</p>
<p>Even within the preying public eye some have openly admitted to experiencing severe anxiety, depression, issues with addiction and drug/alcohol dependency. As a young, typically-closed off, male I find it inspiring watching these individuals discuss some of the more sensitive topics in their lives that you’d never have imagined given their attitude on the pitch.</p>
<h2>Everyone has a story</h2>
<p>There are two take-home points for me from this. One very obvious one is the cliché “don’t judge a book by its cover”. Everyone has a story to tell and every story is as important and as unique as the next. The other (and to me the more important) is the sense of encouragement I am given watching these sports personalities discuss something that has been brushed under the carpet for years. Hopefully watching these inspiring individuals can help me, and others, to know that it’s ok to not be ok and equally to reach out when we need to.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://ie.reachout.com/2013/04/04/learning-to-open-up-in-the-world-of-sport/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>The perfect family</title>
		<link>http://ie.reachout.com/2013/01/25/the-perfect-family/</link>
		<comments>http://ie.reachout.com/2013/01/25/the-perfect-family/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 25 Jan 2013 17:09:46 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Naoise</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Alcohol, drugs and addiction]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Support from friends and family]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://ie.reachout.com/?p=9318</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Do you know any perfect families? Listen to our radio ads depicting the "perfect family".]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>You may have heard our ads on the on the radio recently. If you haven’t, have a listen to our <a href="http://ie.reachout.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/Reachout-Perfect-Family-mx-21.mp3">perfect family advertisement </a>.<br /></strong></p>
<p><a href="http://ie.reachout.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/clogs.jpg"><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-9332" alt="family clogs" src="http://ie.reachout.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/clogs.jpg" width="300" height="199" /></a>They’re a bit sarcastic but the point is clear. Nobody lives in the perfect family.</p>
<h2>Hugging it out</h2>
<p>In ReachOut.com’s “perfect family,” ad, two siblings cheerfully tell their parents about issues they’re struggling with. So dad suggests the family to hug it out. All fixed right?</p>
<h2>Not easy</h2>
<p>In real life the issues brought up in this ad are not so easy to talk about and just as difficult to hear.</p>
<h2>Tough times</h2>
<p>What it demonstrates is that everyone goes through tough times. No matter how perfect things look from the outside everyone has their own issues they struggle with and everyone needs a dig out from time-to-time.</p>
<h2>Talking about it</h2>
<p>It was pretty easy for the people in the ad, but telling someone you’re going through a tough time in real life can be hard. Whether you talk to a friend, family member or doctor asking for help can be scary. But it’s worth it!</p>
<h2>Don’t go it alone</h2>
<p>It’s important to remember your family and the people who care about you more than likely know that you’re not perfect and want to help you. Nobody should ever go through a tough time alone.</p>
<p>Read <a href="http://ie.reachout.com/inform-yourself/eating-disorders/">eating disorders</a> or <a href="http://ie.reachout.com/inform-yourself/alcohol-drugs-and-addiction/drugs/getting-help-for-drug-use/">getting help for drug use</a> for more information if you’ve been affected by the issues in the advertisement.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://ie.reachout.com/2013/01/25/the-perfect-family/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>World Suicide Prevention Day</title>
		<link>http://ie.reachout.com/2012/09/10/world-suicide-prevention-day-2/</link>
		<comments>http://ie.reachout.com/2012/09/10/world-suicide-prevention-day-2/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 10 Sep 2012 17:20:19 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>reachout</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Suicide and self-harm]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://ie.reachout.com/?p=8414</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[To truly help prevent suicide we all need to look out for each other. Suicide is everyone's business. ]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Today, 10 September is World Suicide Prevention Day. Though the day is about prevention, take a moment to remember those who have died by suicide.</strong></p>
<h2>Prevention</h2>
<p>Most people do know someone who has been <a href="http://ie.reachout.com/inform-yourself/suicide-and-self-harm/when-someone-takes-their-own-life/">affected by suicide</a> but, it’s safe to say that, nearly everyone knows someone who has had <a href="http://ie.reachout.com/inform-yourself/suicide-and-self-harm/wanting-to-take-your-own-life/">suicidal thoughts</a> at some stage.</p>
<p>But remember these thoughts are just thoughts, so knowing this and <a href="http://ie.reachout.com/inform-yourself/suicide-and-self-harm/wanting-to-take-your-own-life/">developing a &#8220;toolkit&#8221; of strategies</a>, are key to preventing suicide.</p>
<h2>Know the signs</h2>
<p>If we’re all aware of signs of feeling so low, in ourselves and in others, we can all look out for each other.</p>
<p>Changes in behaviour are something to note in those close to you. These could be like not being interested in things they used to enjoy or being sad all the time.</p>
<p>When a friend or family member starts to withdraw, not wanting to hang out with anyone or expresses feelings of worthlessness do your best to check-in with them. <a href="http://ie.reachout.com/help-a-friend/suicide-and-self-harm/if-your-friend-threatens-to-take-their-own-life/">If your friend threatens to take their own life</a>,  know the actions to take.</p>
<h2>All our business</h2>
<p>We are always encouraging people to talk about what’s bothering them to someone. Most of us know what a relief it is when we do. Remind yourself that friends care and we shouldn’t be afraid to ask each other if we’re OK.</p>
<p>If you’ve been affected by suicide recently you may want to read, <a href="http://ie.reachout.com/inform-yourself/suicide-and-self-harm/when-someone-takes-their-own-life/">when someone takes their own life</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://ie.reachout.com/2012/09/10/world-suicide-prevention-day-2/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Coronation Street highlights bullying</title>
		<link>http://ie.reachout.com/2012/07/20/coronation-street-highlights-bullying/</link>
		<comments>http://ie.reachout.com/2012/07/20/coronation-street-highlights-bullying/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 20 Jul 2012 11:54:11 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>reachout</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Bullying]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://ie.reachout.com/?p=8137</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[It's good to be reminded that bullying can happen anywhere, at any time and we're all responsible in preventing it. ]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong><a href="http://ie.reachout.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/faye.jpeg"><img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-8140" title="faye" src="http://ie.reachout.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/faye-300x208.jpg" alt="Faye for Coronation Street" width="300" height="208" /></a>Any fans of Corrie out there? Maybe even for some it’s a secret guilty pleasure.</strong></p>
<p>Recently in Coronation Street, a character Faye was being bullied by girls in school. One of the things they were taunting her about is the fact that she was adopted.</p>
<h2>Difference</h2>
<p>When you’re outside the situation this seems silly, however, to someone like Faye going through a vulnerable stage of life, it can be extremely damaging. As with Faye’s case bullying can often be because of a perceived difference.</p>
<p>Parents and teachers tell us continuously, but it’s worth remembering if someone is deliberately hurting other people’s feelings, it’s likely that it’s a result of their own insecurities. But it can be hard to see this or little consolation if you’re on the receiving end of it.</p>
<h2>Not a joke for all</h2>
<p>Some bullying behaviour can come from insensitivity rather than cruelty. What can be teasing for one person can be deeply upsetting to the person on the receiving end. If one person isn’t laughing it may not be a joke.</p>
<h2>Watching behaviour</h2>
<p>It’s always worth considering this by checking in with your own behaviour to make sure you’re not upsetting someone without realising it. If you do offend someone without having intended to, you can only apologise and make sure to avoid doing it again. We all need to make sure we know <a href="http://ie.reachout.com/inform-yourself/bullying-and-personal-safety/bullying/">what bullying is</a>. </p>
<h2>Tell someone</h2>
<p>If you’re aware of someone being bullied or are subject to it yourself, it’s vital to talk to someone before it develops further. Find someone in a position of responsibility and explain clearly what’s going on. While this takes a lot of bravery the behaviour cannot be allowed to continue for you or the person or people involved.</p>
<h2>Have some questions?</h2>
<p>Our current featured expert, <a href="http://ie.reachout.com/ask-the-expert/">Jennifer Ryan, is taking your questions</a> about bullying behaviours, if you are concerned for yourself or a friend or in fact unsure of your own behaviour.</p>
<p>We have no control how the story ends oup for Faye in Corrie, but in our own lives we can and should all do something about bullying.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://ie.reachout.com/2012/07/20/coronation-street-highlights-bullying/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Coffee, muffins, music and support ReachOut.com</title>
		<link>http://ie.reachout.com/2012/07/17/coffee-muffins-music-while-supporting-reachout-com/</link>
		<comments>http://ie.reachout.com/2012/07/17/coffee-muffins-music-while-supporting-reachout-com/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 17 Jul 2012 21:22:35 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>reachout</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Communication]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://ie.reachout.com/?p=8114</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Spin 1038 have set up a pop-up café at Dundrum Town Centre. All profits go to ReachOut.com, so pop in for a cuppa and a chat. ]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Over the next few weeks Spin 1038 are running a pop-up café where listeners can come and hang out at the Dundrum Town Centre.</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://ie.reachout.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Spin-Cafe-Logo-White1.jpg"><img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-8122" title="Spin Cafe Logo White" src="http://ie.reachout.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Spin-Cafe-Logo-White1-300x262.jpg" alt="spin cafe " width="300" height="262" /></a>The Spin Café will be selling tea, coffee and muffins with your favorite Spin 1038 DJs broadcasting live from the café. There’ll also be a playstation gaming area, daily prizes and competitions for concert tickets.</p>
<h2>Excitement!</h2>
<p>One of the best parts is that all profits from the café will be going to ReachOut.com. Yes, that’s us!</p>
<h2>Taking time out</h2>
<p>In our busy daily lives it’s all too easy to forget to take time out for ourselves. This is your opportunity to have some fun and take some guilt-free time out for your mental health.</p>
<p>Treat yourself to a coffee, a muffin or even just some well-deserved gaming time. Making the time to relax and do things you enjoy is definitely a habit worth forming and will help you deal with those tough times, if they come around.</p>
<h2>Bring your friends</h2>
<p>This is your excuse to call up your friends to catch-up over a coffee. A gossip over a cuppa gives you the chance to vent, release tension and get a different perspective.</p>
<p>It’s also a great opportunity to check in with your friends and make sure they’re feeling great too.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://ie.reachout.com/2012/07/17/coffee-muffins-music-while-supporting-reachout-com/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Supporting a loved one</title>
		<link>http://ie.reachout.com/2012/01/17/supporting-a-loved-one/</link>
		<comments>http://ie.reachout.com/2012/01/17/supporting-a-loved-one/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 17 Jan 2012 16:56:04 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>reachout</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Alcohol, drugs and addiction]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Depression]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Face to face help]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://ie.reachout.com/?p=6622</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Supporting a loved one who is going through a tough time can take it's toll. Check out this story written by a young woman about her brothers alcoholism and her own struggles with depression. ]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://ie.reachout.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/293684_katrine1.jpg"><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-6624" title="293684_katrine" src="http://ie.reachout.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/293684_katrine1.jpg" alt="sad girl" width="300" height="224" /></a><strong>When someone close to us is going through a tough time it can be hard to deal with. Supporting them can be stressful and can lead to overwhelming emotions of our own. </strong></p>
<p>It&#8217;s only natural to want to support our loved ones but it&#8217;s also important to look after ourselves. After all, if we don&#8217;t make sure we&#8217;re OK then we won&#8217;t be able to support others.</p>
<h2>Alcohol problems</h2>
<p>Recently a young woman shared her <a href="http://ie.reachout.com/real-stories/inform-yourself/depression/my-brothers-alcohol-problems-made-me-depressed/">story</a> with us of the realisation of her brother&#8217;s alcoholism. She explains how dealing with her brother&#8217;s problems on top of her own feelings and the stress of exams led to her <a href="http://ie.reachout.com/real-stories/inform-yourself/depression/my-brothers-alcohol-problems-made-me-depressed/">depression and of how she got help</a>.</p>
<h2>Helpful links</h2>
<p>If you&#8217;re <a href="http://ie.reachout.com/help-a-friend/alcohol-drugs-and-addiction/worried-about-someones-drug-use/">worried about someone&#8217;s drug or alcohol use </a>or how to support them or would like more information on <a href="http://ie.reachout.com/inform-yourself/depression/depression/">depression </a>then check out these articles. There&#8217;s loads of great tips for dealing with <a href="http://ie.reachout.com/inform-yourself/anxiety-panic-and-shyness/stress/">stress</a>, <a href="http://ie.reachout.com/inform-yourself/money-work-and-study/exams/managing-exam-stress/">managing exam stress</a> and <a href="http://ie.reachout.com/getting-help/">information about how to find support</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://ie.reachout.com/2012/01/17/supporting-a-loved-one/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Holiday survival guide</title>
		<link>http://ie.reachout.com/2011/12/23/holiday-survival-guide/</link>
		<comments>http://ie.reachout.com/2011/12/23/holiday-survival-guide/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 23 Dec 2011 11:33:18 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>reachout</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Communication]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://ie.reachout.com/?p=6427</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[No matter how much you love your family being enclosed in a small space with them for an extended period of time can lead to tension. ]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong><a href="http://ie.reachout.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/217464_holiday_warmth.jpg"><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-6429" title="217464_holiday_warmth" src="http://ie.reachout.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/217464_holiday_warmth.jpg" alt="Christmas tree decorations" width="300" height="225" /></a>Christmas is a time of turkey, tinsel and goodwill to all&#8230;&#8230;well&#8230;..most anyway. But no matter how much you love your family being enclosed in a small space with them for an extended period of time can lead to tension. </strong></p>
<h2>Stressed out parents</h2>
<p>Stress can be contagious. If mum&#8217;s running around like a headless chicken and insisting of making a martyr out of herself and dad&#8217;s grumpy old man act is stressing you out there are a few things you can do.</p>
<p>Parents can feel a lot of pressure to make things perfect for Christmas. Try to help your folks out by chopping some veggies, wrapping presents, setting the table or collecting people form the train station. If it&#8217;s all a bit much take some time out by yourself, listen to some music or go for a walk. Sometimes a little bit of space can do everyone good. Read more about <a href="http://ie.reachout.com/inform-yourself/anxiety-panic-and-shyness/stress/">dealing with stress</a>.</p>
<h2>Missing someone at Christmas</h2>
<p>Christmas is a time full of traditions, memories and family. This can be hard for families who have lost someone or have a family member who can&#8217;t be there. <a href="http://ie.reachout.com/inform-yourself/loss-and-grief/managing-special-occasions-2/">This article</a> has heaps of tips for coping with the feelings that can come when your missing someone at Christmas time.</p>
<h2>The family inquisition</h2>
<p>It was bound to happen it&#8217;s Christmas after all. Some nosey relative is questioning you in front of the whole family about every insecurity you’ve ever had. What are you doing with your life? Are you seeing anybody nice? Do you have a job yet?</p>
<p>Aunty Agnes actually may not be as evil as she appears at first. Remember there is a huge generation gap and things are really different to when she was your age. It may just be possible that they are not trying to embarrass you on purpose so use the opportunity to get to know them better. You never know you both may learn something.</p>
<p>If there&#8217;s a risk of something you really don&#8217;t feel comfortable talking about coming up, discuss this with some family members you trust beforehand. Try to come up with an action plan to change the subject.</p>
<p>Remember it&#8217;s your life, don&#8217;t let what other people think make you feel bad about who you are or where your at.</p>
<h2>
<p>Fighting over the remote? Again?</h2>
<p>So you get on great with your siblings usually but being forced to spend time with them in your child-hood-home makes you revert to your five- year-old self. This is actually pretty normal, try to remember that your family members are probably feeling the same way so try to cut them some slack. If cabin fever begins to set in, get some space by going for a walk, reading a book or meeting up with some friends.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://ie.reachout.com/2011/12/23/holiday-survival-guide/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Getting through the silly season</title>
		<link>http://ie.reachout.com/2011/12/15/getting-through-the-silly-season/</link>
		<comments>http://ie.reachout.com/2011/12/15/getting-through-the-silly-season/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 15 Dec 2011 16:24:12 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>reachout</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Alcohol, drugs and addiction]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Minding your mental health]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://ie.reachout.com/?p=6383</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Whether your organising the party or just turning up in your reindeer costume this guide has loads of handy tips for getting the best out of the festive season.]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://ie.reachout.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/661731_mistletoe1.jpg"><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-6386" title="661731_mistletoe" src="http://ie.reachout.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/661731_mistletoe1.jpg" alt="mistletoe" width="300" height="199" /></a>So you have your elf costume and your christmas jumper but is there anything else you should be considering before you head out the door?</p>
<h2>Party time</h2>
<p>There are loads of parties going on whether it&#8217;s with work, friends or family.</p>
<h2>The downside</h2>
<p>By the end of the season the late nights and drinking can take it&#8217;s toll. Feeling overtired and hungover is not a great recipe for Christmas spirit. Hangovers associated with Christmas parties are not inevitable. There are a few simple things that you can do to make sure you have a fun festive season without the fatigue.</p>
<h2>Christmas survival guide</h2>
<p><a title="Drinkaware.ie" href="http://www.drinkaware.ie/">Drinkaware.ie</a> in conjunction with <a title="Hot Press" href="http://www.hotpress.com/">Hot Press</a> have come up with an easy to follow <a title="Christmas survival guide" href="http://www.drinkaware.ie/index.php?sid=13&amp;pid=157">Christmas survival guide</a>.</p>
<h2>Sore head?</h2>
<p>If after following these tips you still end up with a bit of a hangover check out drinkaware.ie&#8217;s  <a title="tips and busted myths about dealing with a hang over" href="http://www.drinkaware.co.uk/tips-and-tools/dealing-with-a-hangover">tips and busted myths about dealing with a hangover</a>.</p>
<h2>Look out for one and other</h2>
<p>The most important thing is to look out for your friends. Make sure you don&#8217;t leave anyone on their own, especially if they have been drinking. You can also check out <a title="helping a friend who has drunk to much" href="http://ie.reachout.com/help-a-friend/alcohol-drugs-and-addiction/helping-a-drunk-friend/">helping a friend who has drunk too much</a>. By looking out for your mates you can ensure that everyone has a happy and safe festive season.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://ie.reachout.com/2011/12/15/getting-through-the-silly-season/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>When private troubles become public concern</title>
		<link>http://ie.reachout.com/2011/11/29/when-private-troubles-become-public-concern/</link>
		<comments>http://ie.reachout.com/2011/11/29/when-private-troubles-become-public-concern/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 29 Nov 2011 11:23:37 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>reachout</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Loss and grief]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[grief]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[suicide]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://ie.reachout.com/?p=6257</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The tragic loss of a public figure, like Gary Speed, by suicide can provide us with an opportunity to become more aware of the need to look after each other. ]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://ie.reachout.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/birds_flying.jpg"><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-6262" title="birds_flying" src="http://ie.reachout.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/birds_flying.jpg" alt="birds flying " width="230" height="160" /></a>Watching the face of Michael Owen on Match of the Day the other night, reading quotes from Robbie Savage and others who had been close to Gary Speed, it seemed a sadly typical scenario was playing out.</p>
<h2>Sense of disbelief</h2>
<p>The big difference, though, is that it’s being played out in the full glare of the media. The sense of bewilderment and shock, of disbelief that a life could be lost in such a brutal way when “he had so much going for him” sadly resonates with so many tragic tales of suicide among young men in Ireland.</p>
<p>From what we have heard from the many colleagues that were speaking with Gary Speed in the days shortly before his death it would seem that everything was ok.</p>
<h2>Warning signs</h2>
<p>Many “experts” would have us believe that suicide warning signs are always there. That we should be watching out for them. But how can we? Life is so unpredictable and so is suicide.</p>
<p>Sure, maybe there are always warning signs. But, so often the distress felt by people thinking about suicide is so deeply internalised that none of us ever get to glimpse it until it’s too late. We can learn about those signs but we also need to recognise our limitations too.</p>
<h2>Conversation</h2>
<p>When someone so well known takes their own life, private tragedy is transformed into public concern. This becomes a catalyst for another national conversation on suicide. Here is an opportunity for us to recognise the vulnerability in each and every one of us.</p>
<h2>Time to reflect</h2>
<p>It’s also an opportunity to become more aware of the need to look after each other, be good to each other and be there for each other. Of course it’s also a time to reflect on the terribly sad reality of a young widow and two young children who have lost their father. When responding or reacting to a tragedy like this, loved ones left behind are the people that matter the most.</p>
<h2>Shared humanity</h2>
<p>Let’s not dwell or speculate on the many possible reasons as to “why?”. Instead, let’s acknowledge our shared humanity and environment in which so many of us experience terrible alienation. We can only move forward in that spirit of sharing and the sense of togetherness it can bring.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://ie.reachout.com/2011/11/29/when-private-troubles-become-public-concern/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Remembering by candlelight</title>
		<link>http://ie.reachout.com/2011/11/15/remembering-by-candlelight/</link>
		<comments>http://ie.reachout.com/2011/11/15/remembering-by-candlelight/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 15 Nov 2011 16:03:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>reachout</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Loss and grief]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Suicide and self-harm]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://ie.reachout.com/?p=6131</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Rachel Breslin, the Welfare Officer in UCD writes here about the Please Talk Candlelit vigil they held in UCD last week. Candlelit vigils are taking place across Irish college campuses throughout November.]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong><a href="http://ie.reachout.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/pleasetalk.jpg"><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-6139" title="pleasetalk" src="http://ie.reachout.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/pleasetalk.jpg" alt="Please talk candle light vigil " width="245" height="145" /></a>Rachel Breslin, the Welfare Officer in UCD writes here about the Please Talk Candlelit vigil they held in UCD last week. Candlelit vigils are taking place across Irish college campuses throughout November. </strong></p>
<p>So what’s Please Talk you say? Well, it is a service based in colleges around the country that encourage young people to talk about things that are bothering them. There is also a website, <a href="http://www.pleasetalk.ie ">pleasetalk.ie</a> with a list of the colleges’ support services that are there for you when times are tough.</p>
<h2>Vigil</h2>
<p>Every year we organise a candlelit vigil to remember those young people who have died by suicide. The event could be in any format we liked (as long as there were candles involved!) so it was cool to start with a blank canvass.</p>
<h2>Pausing to think</h2>
<p>The chair of the Please Talk committee here and I picked a central location, just outside our main library at 6 pm because it would be dark then and it’s a good time of day for pausing and thinking. We decided to go with a large Please Talk logo in candles on the ground as well as students holding their own candles to symbolise their own loss.</p>
<h2>Remembrance</h2>
<p>We drew the logo in chalk on the ground and placed candles along the lines. As soon as the first candle was lit something happened. The exuberant mood of the volunteers seemed to shift. We were all suddenly struck by the beauty and touching symbolism of this candle, blowing frailly in the wind. Everyone naturally associates candles with remembrance and I think the poignancy of the event really sunk in.</p>
<h2>Gathering around</h2>
<p>People began to notice the beautiful candles and started crowding around. It was truly remarkable to see small groups huddled around, talking about the candles, the event and their own loss. Some people even stood still in silent thought and blessed themselves before moving on. The striking candles were effective in acting as a trigger for people to talk about mental health, and that is exactly what we set out to do.</p>
<h2>Talking is a sign of strength</h2>
<p>At 6 pm the crowd hushed and Evan and I addressed everyone, welcoming them to the event. We read out some poignant poems and held a minute’s silence to pause and remember those whom we have lost.</p>
<p>It felt like in those few moments when over 600 small candles were lit on a cold, rainy November day to remember loved ones that UCD became a community. People huddled together holding candles and talked openly about friends and family members who have gone. The mood was appropriately somber but undoubtedly one of determination to support eachother through difficult times. That night students from all over UCD came together and practised what we preached; “talking is a sign of strength, not of weakness”.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://ie.reachout.com/2011/11/15/remembering-by-candlelight/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>2</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Thanks!</title>
		<link>http://ie.reachout.com/2011/07/21/thanks/</link>
		<comments>http://ie.reachout.com/2011/07/21/thanks/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 21 Jul 2011 11:47:17 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>reachout</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Communication]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://ie.reachout.com/?p=4982</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Thanks to your help, ReachOut.com has launched its first research report on youth mental health and the internet.]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://ie.reachout.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/Learning-to-reach-out-image.jpg"><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-4987" title="Learning to reach out image" src="http://ie.reachout.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/Learning-to-reach-out-image.jpg" alt="Cover of Learning to reach out report" width="166" height="166" /></a>Exciting news! You might remember back in 2010, we ran a survey on ReachOut.com asking you about mental health issues and what you do to get information and support if you needed it.</p>
<p>Loads of people got back to us on it, and thanks to you and our research team, ReachOut.com has just published a new report about young people, mental health and the Internet.</p>
<p>The report is about how people aged 16-25 understand mental health, who they talk to and how online places like ReachOut.com can help when people are going through tough times.  If you&#8217;re interested, you can read the report <a href="http://www.inspireireland.ie/learning-to-reachout/">here.</a></p>
<p>We hope it&#8217;s going to help us, and everyone, provide people with the support they need when things are tough.  So we wanted to thank everyone who took the time to fill out the survey, and everyone who comes to ReachOut.com.</p>
<p>If you ever have any comments, ideas or issues you&#8217;d like covered, let us know. Whether you&#8217;re going through a tough time, or you want to help a friend, we want to give you the information and support you need to get through it.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://ie.reachout.com/2011/07/21/thanks/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>It&#8217;s our birthday today!</title>
		<link>http://ie.reachout.com/2010/11/05/its-our-birthday-today/</link>
		<comments>http://ie.reachout.com/2010/11/05/its-our-birthday-today/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 05 Nov 2010 15:47:50 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>reachout</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Communication]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[birthday]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://reachout.fusio.net/?p=3031</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[We launched ReachOut.com last year on 5 November and our main objective was, and remains to be, to help young people get through tough times.]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Happy Birthday to us, happy birthday to us &#8230;We are one year old today! And you wouldn’t know it, in fact we were just discussing here that this last year has been akin to a dog year, when you look at all we’ve done.</p>
<h2>Objective</h2>
<p>We launched ReachOut.com last year on 5 November and our main objective was, and remains to be, to help young people get through tough times.</p>
<h2>Sharing information</h2>
<p>We’ve been doing this by creating a ReachOut community of over 2,000 members, providing a platform for people to share their experiences and hosting a place to get trustworthy information on mental health issues either for yourself or someone you know</p>
<h2>At the beginning</h2>
<p>ReachOut’s roots belong in Australia and last November, the Australian rugby team popped in to see how an organisation that was founded in Australia was kicking off (there was no sporting pun intended there, honestly) in Ireland.</p>
<h2>Just because things look perfect…</h2>
<p>In January we launched our first ad campaign with online, radio and posters across the country highlighting the message that just because things might look perfect on the outside, it doesn’t mean they are. Thanks to fantastic support from our partners we were able to get this message out to thousands of people across Ireland while promoting ReachOut.com.</p>
<h2>Comedy</h2>
<p>In June we hosted a comedy night with Declan Rooney, Joe Rooney, Pat McDonnell and Cian Hallinan. The night was a whole lot of laughs, while raising valuable funds for our work. In fact, keep an eye out for Pat McDonnell as you’ll see him on ReachOut.com again very soon.</p>
<p>Comedians Dermot Whelan and Jason Byrne have also given ReachOut.com very personal and helpful tips on looking after your mental health.</p>
<h2>Festivals</h2>
<p>If you were at Oxegen this year you may have clapped eyes on some extra special wellies and tents, all designed by the ReachOut team. We managed to spray painted 216 wellies and 40 tents in the rain. It is obligatory to rain at Oxegen, granted, but this was quite an achievement. Thanks to Laura Whitmore, our home-grown MTV presenter, for launching this.</p>
<p>At Kings of Concrete 7,500 hoops were dunked/basketballs were thrown and went through baskets (y’see not so comfortable with sporting terms) to win special edition Maser-tagged t-shirts. Yep, 7,500!</p>
<h2>The aim of ReachOut.com</h2>
<p>While we’d like to take this opportunity to say a BIG THANK YOU to all of you who have gotten involved, it’s important to note that it’s not all fun and games. As mentioned we want to help you get through times so we’d like to know if you think we’re doing a good job? Are we going about it the right way? Have we helped in any way?</p>
<p>This is a service for you and we’d very much like to hear your thoughts to help us improve ReachOut.com either by commenting here or mail us at <a href="mailto:info@inspireireland.com">info@inspireireland.com</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://ie.reachout.com/2010/11/05/its-our-birthday-today/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Network Event 2010</title>
		<link>http://ie.reachout.com/2010/09/01/network-event-2010/</link>
		<comments>http://ie.reachout.com/2010/09/01/network-event-2010/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 01 Sep 2010 17:31:31 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>reachout</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Help a friend]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[YAN]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://reachout.fusio.net/?p=3121</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[How we spent our first ReachOut.com Network event. ]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>On Saturday we had our first big network event at ReachOut.com! It was a day to say a big thank you to everyone who got involved in the past year and to meet people who want to get involved in the future. The day started off bright and early ..well for some of us at least, and after fixing a deafening alarm and making the office a bit more presentable we were ready for our visitors.</p>
<p>So with all present and accounted for we got down to the formalities with talks from Vince, Elaine and the founder of ReachOut.com Jack Heath who came all the way from America to see us. Then after indulging in some pizza we set out in a convoy of taxis to our next location to undertake the mammoth task of making a ReachOut.com mural.</p>
<p>With spray cans at the ready and a little instruction from a seasoned pro we got to work. It was really fun and everyone got into it regardless of artistic ability, but in fairness we are quite the talented group! Everyone was happily spraying whether they had to crouch down or stand on a very unstable old couch facing the biggest spider I have ever seen it was all done in the name of art! At the end it was all hands in to get the stencils in the right places for the prefect ReachOut.com logo and our work was done. It was a brilliant day, the mural turned out great and thanks to everyone for coming, now we are looking forward to the next one!</p>
<p>For all the photos check out our <a href="http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.441539376360.211294.154384736360">facebook</a> page.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://ie.reachout.com/2010/09/01/network-event-2010/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>When the load can’t be lightened, we must try to strengthen the back</title>
		<link>http://ie.reachout.com/2010/08/23/when-the-load-can%e2%80%99t-be-lightened-we-must-try-to-strengthen-the-back/</link>
		<comments>http://ie.reachout.com/2010/08/23/when-the-load-can%e2%80%99t-be-lightened-we-must-try-to-strengthen-the-back/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 23 Aug 2010 17:42:15 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>reachout</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Suicide and self-harm]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ASIST]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[suicide]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://reachout.fusio.net/?p=3135</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Lynda Kelly, Tipp Rose 2010, on the importance for all of us to work together and support people going through tough times.]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Most of you don’t know me, and quite possibly many of you never will, but for those of you from Tipperary – I was your ambassador in Tralee as the 2010 Tipperary Rose. Although the duties of a Rose are vast and varied, caught up in whirlwind of excitement and glamour, my career as a lecturer in the Garda Training College and more importantly personal recent events have taught me that none of us is immune to the trials and tribulations of modern life. Having a background in Psychology, I thought (admittedly naively) that I understood the full extent of human behaviour. Taking an ASIST suicide intervention course in suicide first-aid only served to strengthen this belief. Therefore having a degree, masters and various certificates under my belt I genuinely believed that logic could be gleaned from almost all human actions……until recently!</p>
<p>Within 3 months I attended the funerals of 4 people whose lives had been cut short by suicide. Never before had this issue lay at my doorstep and, as usual, the reasons behind it were completely unclear. A permanent solution for, perhaps, a temporary problem. All my years of training had left me helpless in the midst of such a tragedy.</p>
<p>Sadly the reasons for suicide today remain largely illusive; however one thing is undeniably clear – it has become too common in Irish society. The recession has only served to worsen the growing tide of instability and insecurity in young modern Ireland – rising unemployment, financial tribulations, etc make it difficult for some people even through the best of times.</p>
<p>Over 500 suicides were reported last year. For each of those, a member of the Gardaí had to inform a family member of the sad passing of a loved one. Could there possibly be a more upsetting job? However, this is part of what I teach at the Garda Training College – the art of empathetic communication. In addition to this training, it is hoped that future Gardaí will also be given ASIST training to prepare them for many of the pressing issues of modern society &#8211; such as suicide. But like many front-line services the role of the Gardaí is largely reactive. Gardaí need the help of communities to recognise and support vulnerable people at times of difficulty. There is therefore a responsibility on us, to see those moments where we can support someone who is going through a tough time.</p>
<p>I once heard my school chaplin use the phrase “lord either lighten my load, or strengthen my back”. Regardless of your religion or belief, the message remains compellingly apt. Life today, in the midst of recession, can weigh a tonne – so the only option is a stable core with unity and belief. Front line services can only touch so many people and often at this point it is too late &#8211; we must individually learn to identify the vulnerability in each other and only then can we work to strengthen our communities. Having enhanced my suicide intervention skills through ASIST I feel more willing, ready and able to help should the time come when someone needs my assistance– could you say the same?</p>
<p>For more info on the ASIST programme check out <a href="http://www.livingworks.net/page/Applied%20Suicide%20Intervention%20Skills%20Training%20%28ASIST%29">LivingWorks</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://ie.reachout.com/2010/08/23/when-the-load-can%e2%80%99t-be-lightened-we-must-try-to-strengthen-the-back/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
	</channel>
</rss>
