McGimpsey launches all-Island mental health promotion campaign

Health Minister Michael McGimpsey today announced the launch of a new All-Island Mental Health Promotion Campaign called ‘Your Mental Health’.

Developed by the National Office of Suicide Prevention in the Republic of Ireland, the campaign builds on the recent ‘Its Me’ campaign. The campaign was also simultaneously launched by Minister of State, Dr Jimmy Devins, in Dublin and will be broadcast throughout the island from today.

Launching the campaign the Minister said: “Mental health problems are amongst the most common form of ill health in our society but yet there can still be a stigma attached. We need to learn to look after our mental health in the same manner as we do with our physical health, by beginning to share our thoughts and feelings and if needs be, to seek help.

The Minister launched the campaign as he opened the new premises of the West Belfast Suicide Awareness and Support Group.

On opening the premises, the Minister added: “While poor mental health is not a major factor in all deaths to suicide, there is no doubt that it is a significant contributory factor in a number of cases. Community based services such as the West Belfast Suicide Awareness and Support Group provide an invaluable service to those who are in need.

“I must again acknowledge the enormous contribution that groups such as this are making to the delivery of our local suicide prevention strategy. In particular, the commitment, courage and dedication of the many bereaved families here today continues to be an inspiration to us all.”

Notes to Editors:

1. The Health Minister, Michael McGimpsey MLA, chairs the Ministerial Co-ordination Group on Suicide Prevention.
2. Between 2000 and 2004 there have been approximately 150 deaths by suicide. In 2006 there were 291 suicides recorded.
3. The Northern Ireland Suicide Prevention Strategy, “Protect Life - A Shared Vision” was published on 30 October 2006, and it highlights the potential for mutually beneficial co-operation with regards the parallel implementation of the Republic of Ireland’s suicide prevention strategy “Reach Out”. An All-Island action plan has subsequently been developed in order to harness this potential, and the launch of the new mental health promotion campaign is one of the key elements of the North/South co-operation on suicide prevention.
4. A Five Nations Working Group has also been established to share wider best practice and learning with our colleagues in Scotland, England, Wales, and the Republic of Ireland.
5. Media enquiries to the DHSSPS Press Office on 028 90520575 or 07833 668748, out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.