Reinforcing Measures to Combat Mental Health Issues Reinforced in Northern Ireland
In a significant step towards transforming mental health services and support in Northern Ireland, the Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031 has been published, with the Mental Health Foundation playing a pivotal role in its early planning stages.
The strategy, which emphasises a long-term, cross-departmental commitment, aims to promote mental well-being for all age groups and communities, focusing on prevention, early intervention, and improved access to care. It also seeks to strengthen services for those with mental health conditions, making them more accessible, effective, and integrated across health and social care sectors.
Recovery, rights, and social inclusion are core principles in the strategy, with a focus on ensuring partnerships with the voluntary, community, and private sectors to support a wider range of services and community-based initiatives. The strategy also addresses the root causes and determinants of poor mental health, including social, economic, and environmental factors.
Dr. Shari McDaid, Head of Evidence & Impact for the Mental Health Foundation in Northern Ireland, expressed her gratitude for the publication of the strategy. "This decade-spanning strategy reflects a holistic and ambitious approach to mental health, aiming to improve outcomes and reduce inequalities for everyone in Northern Ireland," she said.
The Mental Health Foundation, known as the home of Mental Health Awareness Week, is committed to driving change towards a mentally healthy society for all. The organisation focuses on supporting communities, families, and individuals, particularly those at greatest risk.
The strategy promises to create an action plan for promoting mental health from infancy to older age and to engage across Government to increase supports available to individuals, families, and communities to address social factors impacting mental health. It also intends to maximise the availability and use of a range of social wellbeing supports.
The Mental Health Foundation's vision is for good mental health for all. As they look forward to supporting the implementation of the strategy over the next ten years, they welcome the opportunity to work together with the Department and other stakeholders to build a society where mental health is supported proactively at every level.
For further information or interview requests, please contact the Mental Health Foundation at cfleming@our website or 07511 076 870.
[1] The Mental Health Foundation, Press Release, 16th March 2021.
- The Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031, endorsed by the Mental Health Foundation, aims to enhance mental health support, focusing on wellbeing, prevention, and stress reduction for all age groups and communities.
- In line with the strategy, the Mental Health Foundation intends to foster resilience and awareness by providing social wellbeing supports and community-based initiatives, especially for those at greatest risk.
- The strategy envisions a multi-sectoral approach, focusing on recovery, rights, and social inclusion for those with mental health conditions, moving towards integrated health and social care services.
- In pursuit of their vision for good mental health for all, the Mental Health Foundation looks forward to collaborating with the Department and other stakeholders to prevent mental health issues, addressing the root causes such as socio-economic and environmental factors.
- Addressing mental health challenges requires a proactive approach at every level, and the Mental Health Foundation, known for Mental Health Awareness Week, is committed to driving change in this area, working collaboratively to build a mentally healthy society.
