Free mental health support programme launched for carers

A new support programme for carers and supporters of people with mental health challenges has been launched. 

Mental Health Ireland and Family Carers Ireland have partnered to coproduce a five-week online programme that aims to support the supporters of people with mental health challenges. 

The programme has been co-produced with family carers, supporters, people with lived experience of mental health challenges and service providers.

This programme, which is delivered in both online and in person formats, will support families in building skills to look after their own wellbeing whilst supporting or caring for a person living with a mental health challenge

By the end of this programme participants will have: 

•    Had time to reflect on and build tools and techniques to enhance their self-care 

•    Expanded their understanding of the concepts of mental health, wellbeing and recovery 

•    Had an opportunity to learn about and practice communication skills and active listening techniques 

•    Increased awareness around boundaries, personal wellbeing and the supporting role 

•    Learned about supports and services available for those who are caring

In 2022, Mental Health Ireland engaged RED C Research and Marketing Ltd to formally evaluate the Mental Health and Family Caring: Supporting the Supporters Programme.

The result was an overwhelmingly positive programme review. The evaluation found the programme was well received by all those involved (facilitators and participants); it is well structured, organised, accessible, contains valuable perspective and information and is delivered in a compassionate and respectful way.

The evaluation found positive outcomes for carers and their mental health. Crucially, the programme succeeds in its objectives; helping carers focus on better managing their own mental health, leading to favourable outcomes at a personal level and with those they are caring for.

"Please give the gift of doing the Supporters Programme to yourself - you won’t regret it. It helped me to connect and learn from others in a similar situation. Once you are in an okay place yourself, you are in a better position to help others around you. The programme greatly helps you achieve this." Course participant and family carer Millie.

The Mental Health and Family Caring - Supporting the Supporter Programme is starting up online on a variety of dates in April and May and running online for five consecutive Tuesdays from 10:00-12:00pm. 

Participants can register on Eventbrite here: https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/ mental-health-family-caring- supporting-the-supporters- tickets-598001688147 and select the dates that suit them regardless of their location. Participants will receive a pack in the post upon registration so early registration is advised.