Tag Archives: Kerry Mental Health Association

Philip’s Marathon Effort Raises €10,000 For Kerry Mental Health Association

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Pictured at Killarney Racecourse were Phillip Kissane third from left presenting the proceeds to John Drummey, Kerry Mental Health. Also in photo are Alan Flynn and Tim Moynihan from Sisk.
Photo: Don MacMonagle

PHILIP Kissane, the Construction Site Manager for Sisk at the new Killarney Community Hospital, has presented a cheque for more than €10,000 to Kerry Mental Health Association after completing the Kerry Way Ultra Marathon last month (6/7 Sept).

The mental health advocate from Killarney nominated Kerry Mental Health Association as the benefitting charity for the 200km event which was staged along the trails and mountains of the scenic Kerry Way.

It was the equivalent of five marathons and saw him run for 36 hours over two consecutive days and through the night on 6th and 7th September.

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Philip raised €5,945 through an iDonate fundraising page while his employer, Sisk, added a donation of €5,000 bringing the total to €10,945.

The General Manager of Kerry Mental Health Association, John Drummey, said, “Philip’s achievement in completing the ultramarathon is truly phenomenal and we are grateful to him for choosing Kerry Mental Health Association as the beneficiary of the enormous fundraising outcome. We are grateful to everyone who contributed to the fundraiser, in particular to Sisk who added a substantial donation of €5,000. All funds raised will help Kerry Mental Health Association to support people with mental health challenges, their families and carers in Kerry.”

After completing the Kerry Way Ultra Marathon, Philip Kissane, said, “It was a wonderful experience, albeit tiring, to take part in such a testing event. I was proud to support Kerry Mental Health Association because it’s hugely important to look after your mental health. As a mental health ambassador within Sisk, I understand how we need to be conscious of each other’s mental wellbeing and to reduce the stigma around it. I want to thank the people who donated online, Sisk for matching the fundraising up to €5,000 and everyone who supported me before and during the event.”

The Kerry Way Ultra was conducted along The Kerry Way trail with the athletes running over mountain passes, green trails, boggy ground, wire-covered sleepers, country roads and a minimum of main road.

Anyone wishing to support Kerry Mental Health Association can do so at https://KerryMentalHealth.ie/donate.

A Host Of Free Events For Kerry Mental Health And Wellbeing Fest

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 Pictured in Killorglin at the launch of this year’s programme of events were Steering Group members: Lisa Foley (Maine Valley FRC); Gearoid O’Doherty (Kerry Recreation & Sports Partnership); Joan Murphy (Munster Technological University); Caoimhe Keogan (Jigsaw Kerry), Donagh Hennebry (Resource Officer for Suicide Prevention Kerry); Geraldine O’Sullivan (Kerry Volunteer Centre); Carol Naughton (South Kerry Development Partnership); John Drummey (Kerry Mental Health Association). Photo By : Domnick Walsh © Eye Focus LTD .©

WALKS, talks, activities, arts, crafts and many more free indoor, outdoor and online events will feature during the Kerry Mental Health & Wellbeing Fest from 5th to 12th October 2024.

The key focus of the #KerryMHWFest is to promote mental health and wellbeing in Kerry through a fun and interactive programme of over 100 events taking place throughout the county.

The full listing of all of this year’s FREE events is available at https://KerryMentalHealthAndWellbeingFest.com/events from where prospective participants can sign-up for events and find out details of what’s on throughout the week of the Fest.

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Organised by an interagency steering group, the Kerry Mental Health and Wellbeing Fest is held annually to highlight World Mental Health Day on 10th October.

Steering Committee volunteer, Caoimhe Keogan of Jigsaw Kerry, said, “The key focus of the Kerry Mental Health & Wellbeing Fest is to create an awareness of, and schedule events that empower people to engage with the Five Ways to Wellbeing – Connect | Be Active | Take Notice | Keep Learning | Give. In doing so, we are encouraging people in our communities throughout Kerry to take time to learn, talk, reflect and engage with others around the topic of mental health and wellbeing. We are committed to raising awareness of the available mental health and wellbeing supports and services in the county. It would not be possible to facilitate such a varied programme of events without the people who are hosting activities. I wish to thank them all on behalf of my colleagues on the Steering Committee.”

All events are free registration is essential and can be done by visiting the website or following #KerryMHWFest on social media.

The Kerry Mental Health & Wellbeing Fest voluntary organising committee is a collaboration between Connecting for Life Kerry, Healthy Kerry, Kerry County Council, Kerry Recreation & Sports Partnership, the HSE, NEWKD, SKDP, Kerry Mental Health Association, Jigsaw Kerry, Munster Technological University/Kerry, MTU Students Union, KDYS, Kerry Volunteer Centre, Kerry Library, the National Learning Network and Family Resource Centres throughout the county.

KMHA To Host Fundraising Business Breakfast At The Meadowlands

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Pictured at the launch of the annual KMHA fundraising business breakfast were: Heather McIver (The Meadowlands Hotel) , John Drummey (Kerry Mental Health Association) and Siobhan Murphy (Kerry Mental Health Association), Photo By : Domnick Walsh © Eye Focus LTD ©

ANXIETY in the hybrid workplace is the theme of Kerry Mental Health Association’s second annual fundraising business breakfast at The Meadowlands Hotel on #TieDayFriday, October 4.

Taking place from 7.15am to 8.50am, the event will be of interest and benefit to employees, employers and the self-employed with tickets, including a full Irish breakfast, available from www.KerryMentalHealth.ie/breakfast.

The General Manager of Kerry Mental Health Association, John Drummey, said; “Recent reports have revealed that 1/5 of Irish firms experienced mental health related issues and over half reported an increase in mental health related issues in the past year.”

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Since the COVID-19 pandemic the number of employers that allow employees to work from home has increased three-fold. What has the impact of this been on our mental health? Our panel of guests will offer attendees an insight to how we can work together to overcome the challenges of remote and hybrid working.”

The guest experts include Dee Lynch, Training and Education Coordinator with Mental Health Ireland; Dermot Dennehy, CEO Managing Remote Teams; and Dan O’Donoghue, Manager of the Asentiv Ireland South franchise.

Radio Kerry’s Elaine Kinsella and Andrew Morrissey will present Kerry’s Full Breakfast live from The Meadowlands Hotel between 7am and 9am on the day.

Tickets are €30 (subject to booking fee) and can be purchased from www.KerryMentalHealth.ie/breakfast.

Proceeds from #TieDayFriday will assist with the cost of rolling out FREE and affordable Mental Health First Aid and other mental health educational activities in Kerry.

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Public Encouraged To Support Tie Day Friday In Aid Of KMHA

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TIEDAYFRIDAY for Kerry Mental Health Association is back on Friday 4th October. Launching this year’s fun fundraiser at Banna Beach were: Luke Healy , Róisín Sugrue and Maiya Rivis McHugh. Photo By : Domnick Walsh © Eye Focus LTD©

THE 4th annual #TieDayFriday fundraiser for Kerry Mental Health Association will take place across the Kingdom on Friday, October 4.

School children, students, teachers as well as office, remote, hybrid and outdoor workers of all ages are being asked to simply wear a tie, post a picture on social media and donate to www.KerryMentalHealth.ie/donate.

This year two schools – one primary and one secondary – will win an android tablet when they tag @KerryMentalHealth on social media or email the pictures to Manager@KerryMentalHealth.ie.

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The General Manager of Kerry Mental Health Association, John Drummey, said: “#TieDayFriday is now an established fundraising event in Kerry with the proceeds assisting us with the cost of rolling out free and affordable mental health educational activities and other relevant supports throughout the county.

“Kerry Mental Health Association also donates thousands of euros each year to support people in Kerry with mental health challenges, their families and friends, covering a range of projects. So we’re asking everyone to please wear a tie, post a picture and make a donation to make a difference.”

A fundraising business breakfast at the Meadowlands Hotel, Tralee is also planned for #TieDayFriday 4th October and will be of interest to employees, employers and the self-employed with ticket details to be announced soon.

Kerry Mental Health Association’s branches organise or provide financial support for various therapies that may be helpful. Many of the services are provided in the various local HSE-run Day Care Centres throughout the county.

Donations of any amount can be made online to www.KerryMentalHealth.ie/donate to help play a part in supporting Kerry Mental Health Association on #TieDayFriday 4th October.

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Still Time To Register To Organise Event For Kerry Mental Health And Wellbeing Fest

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THE closing date to register as an organiser or facilitator of a free event during this year’s Kerry Mental Health and Wellbeing Fest is Friday 30th August.

This year’s #KerryMHWFest will run from Saturday 5th to Saturday 12th October and is held annually to highlight World Mental Health Day on 10th October.

The Kerry Mental Health and Wellbeing Fest aims to raise awareness of the available supports and services in the county as well as empower people to engage with the ‘Five Ways to Wellbeing’ – Connect | Be Active | Take Notice | Keep Learning | Give – by offering a dynamic and interactive programme of free events.

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Spokesperson for the Steering Committee, Caoimhe Keogan from Jigsaw Kerry, said: “We always strive to increase the programme offerings and prospective event organisers are invited to register events for this year’s #KerryMHWFest as soon as possible. The Fest has a wide reach across Kerry and we want to continue to build on its success in 2023. But we can’t do this without you! If you’d like to be part of a community initiative that has a positive impact on mental health and wellbeing, come join us to help create a healthier and happier Kerry.

“Prospective event organisers may wish to run workshops, seminars, outdoor walks, mindfulness classes, team-building events – once it has a mental health and wellbeing benefit, we’d like to hear from you.”

To register your interest to host an event for the 2024 Kerry Mental Health and Wellbeing Fest, visit https://KerryMentalHealthAndWellbeingFest.com before close of business on Friday 30th August 2024.

The Kerry Mental Health & Wellbeing Fest voluntary organising committee is a collaboration between Connecting for Life Kerry, Healthy Kerry, Kerry County Council, Kerry Recreation & Sports Partnership, the HSE, NEWKD, SKDP, Kerry Mental Health Association, Jigsaw Kerry, Munster Technological University/Kerry, MTU Students Union, KDYS, Kerry Volunteer Centre, Kerry Library, the National Learning Network and Family Resource Centres throughout the county.

For more information visit www.KerryMentalHealthAndWellbeingFest.com or email kerrymhwfest20@gmail.com

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Dan’s Dive Raises €11,515 For Kerry Mental Health Association

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Dan O’Donoghue presents a cheque for €11,515 to the Kerry Mental Health Association. Also included I General Manager of KMHA John Drummey and Dan’s grandchildren. Photo by Domnick Walsh

A TRALEE grandad who completed a skydive in aid of Kerry Mental Health Association has presented €11,515 to the Association.

Following a lengthy weather delay, the 65-year-old Dan O’Donoghue, who’s originally from Valentia Island, made his tandem leap with the Irish Parachute Club in Co Offaly back on Saturday, April 27.

He raised €11,515 to help fund the roll out of free and affordable mental health first aid training in Kerry. Dan said he’s delighted with the outcome and grateful for the support of those who contributed to the gofundme campaign.

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Positive Feedback After Kerry Mental Health & Wellbeing Fest

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Pictured at the Kerry Mental Health & Wellbeing Fest Event Organiser Appreciation Event in the Brehon Hotel Killarney were l to r: Geraldine O’Sullivan (Kerry Volunteer Centre) & John Drummey (Kerry Mental Health Association).

PARTICIPATION in the 2023 Kerry Mental Health & Wellbeing Fest has grown by more than 100% since 2020 with 98% of those who gave feedback saying they would attend similar events again in 2024.

Feedback from more than 100 people who attended this year’s Fest events from 7th to 14th October was positive with 91% stating they were satisfied.

The Kerry Mental Health and Wellbeing Fest is held annually over the course of a week to highlight World Mental Health Day on October 10th.

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99% percent of respondents, most of whom identified as female, said they would recommend the Fest to friends next year. Some key notes for improvement included a request for more events with wider variety throughout the county.

Pictured at the Kerry Mental Health & Wellbeing Fest Event Organiser Appreciation Event in the Brehon Hotel Killarney were l to r: Rachel O’Sullivan (Mindfulness With Rachel), Lee O’Neill (Lee O’Neill Counselling), Roser Bosch (Nutrition & Health Coach) & Sharon Roche (Apricity Wellbeing).

The Chair of the Interagency Steering Group, John Drummey from Kerry Mental Health Association, said: “We wish to extend a heartfelt thanks to event organisers, community groups, businesses, funders and partners that facilitated the Fest’s dynamic and interactive programme of events in 2023. We are encouraged to see such growth in numbers attending the Fest events with a 50% increase from 2022. We are already making plans for the Fest from 5th to 12th October 2024 and we are looking forward to building on this year’s successes. That said, there is always room for improvement and we would welcome suggestions for new events and activities.”

Pictured at the Kerry Mental Health & Wellbeing Fest Event Organiser Appreciation Event in the Brehon Hotel Killarney were l to r: Gearóid O’Doherty (Kerry Recreation and Sports Partnership), Caoimhe Keogan (Jigsaw Kerry) & Donagh Hennebry (HSE Suicide Resource Officer Kerry)

Many of the event organisers attended a ‘thank-you’ event at the Brehon Hotel, Killarney, courtesy of the Kerry Volunteer Centre to coincide with the annual International Volunteer Day, 5th December.

The Kerry Mental Health & Wellbeing Fest was organised by an interagency steering group made up of local agencies that support wellbeing in our community.

Pictured at the Kerry Mental Health & Wellbeing Fest Event Organiser Appreciation Event in the Brehon Hotel Killarney were l to r: Gráinne Woulfe (Health Promotion & Improvement Dept HSE), Kerry Moriarty (SICAP) & Michelle Foley (Health Promotion & Improvement Dept HSE).
Pictured at the Kerry Mental Health & Wellbeing Fest Event Organiser Appreciation Event in the Brehon Hotel Killarney were l to r: Maeve Ryan (Kerry Recreation & Sports Partnership), Denise Drumm (Kerry Peer Support Network), Mary Young (Kerry Peer Support Network) & Carol Naughton (South Kerry Development Partnership).

The organising committee is a collaboration between Connecting for Life Kerry, Healthy Kerry, Kerry County Council, Kerry Recreation & Sports Partnership, the HSE, NEWKD, SKDP, Kerry Mental Health Association, Jigsaw Kerry, Munster Technological University/Kerry, KDYS, Kerry Volunteer Centre and Family Resource Centres throughout the county.

Anyone who would like to get involved in the Fest next year by either creating an event or by becoming an Ambassador should contact the Fest team at kerrymhwfest20@gmail.com or visit our website www.KerryMentalHealthAndWellbeingFest.com.

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PHOTOS: Around 200 People Took Part In Human Chain Challenge

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The Sheehan family – Ellie, Michael and Caoimhe  who took part in the Human Chain Challenge on Strickeen Mountain in the Gap of Dunloe, Killarney on Sunday in support of Kerry Mental Health Association. Photo By : Domnick Walsh © Eye Focus LTD

KERRY Mental Health Association (KMHA) organised the Human Chain Mountain Challenge Walk to the top of Strickeen in the Gap of Dunloe near Killarney on Sunday.

It was a fun and colourful show of support for people with mental health challenges, their families and carers in Kerry and around 200 people took part.

The General Manager of Kerry Mental Health Association, John Drummey expressed his gratitude to the local landowners and the MacGillycuddy Reeks Access Forum for facilitating the event.

Kerry Mountain Rescue was on call and the Killarney Order of Malta was on site at the foot of the mountain to provide any First Aid assistance required. Scroll down for photos…

The McCarthy family Grace, Saffron, Henry and Adrian who took part in the Human Chain Challenge on Strickeen Mountain in the Gap of Dunloe, Killarney on Sunday in support of Kerry Mental Health Association. Photo By : Domnick Walsh © Eye Focus LTD
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John Drummey from KMH with Mikey Fleming , Donal McCarthy and John Horgam from the Order of Malta  who took part in the Human Chain Challenge on Strickeen Mountain in the Gap of Dunloe, Killarney on Sunday in support of Kerry Mental Health Association. Photo By : Domnick Walsh © Eye Focus LTD
Some of the people who took part in the Human Chain Challenge on Strickeen Mountain in the Gap of Dunloe, Killarney on Sunday in support of Kerry Mental Health Association. Photo By : Domnick Walsh © Eye Focus LTD
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John Drummey from KMH gives a talk before Human Chain Challenge on Strickeen Mountain in the Gap of Dunloe, Killarney on Sunday in support of Kerry Mental Health Association. Photo By : Domnick Walsh © Eye Focus LTD
The participants in the Human Chain Challenge on Strickeen Mountain in the Gap of Dunloe, Killarney on Sunday in support of Kerry Mental Health Association. Photo By : Domnick Walsh © Eye Focus LTD
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Some of those who took part in the Human Chain Challenge on Strickeen Mountain in the Gap of Dunloe, Killarney on Sunday in support of Kerry Mental Health Association. Photo By : Domnick Walsh © Eye Focus LTD
Some of those who took part in the Human Chain Challenge on Strickeen Mountain in the Gap of Dunloe, Killarney on Sunday in support of Kerry Mental Health Association. Photo By : Domnick Walsh © Eye Focus LTD
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Some of those who took part in the Human Chain Challenge on Strickeen Mountain in the Gap of Dunloe, Killarney on Sunday in support of Kerry Mental Health Association. Photo By : Domnick Walsh © Eye Focus LTD
Some of those who took part in the Human Chain Challenge on Strickeen Mountain in the Gap of Dunloe, Killarney on Sunday in support of Kerry Mental Health Association. Photo By : Domnick Walsh © Eye Focus LTD
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Lil O’Doherty and Donie Mulcahy who took part in the Human Chain Challenge on Strickeen Mountain in the Gap of Dunloe, Killarney on Sunday in support of Kerry Mental Health Association. Photo By : Domnick Walsh © Eye Focus LTD
Mary Cronin and Siobhan Dwyer  who took part in the Human Chain Challenge on Strickeen Mountain in the Gap of Dunloe, Killarney on Sunday in support of Kerry Mental Health Association. Photo By : Domnick Walsh © Eye Focus LTD
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Margaret O’Doherty and Caroline Costello who took part in the Human Chain Challenge on Strickeen Mountain in the Gap of Dunloe, Killarney on Sunday in support of Kerry Mental Health Association. Photo By : Domnick Walsh © Eye Focus LTD
An aerial view of the Human Chain Challenge on Strickeen Mountain in the Gap of Dunloe, Killarney on Sunday in support of Kerry Mental Health Association. Photo By : Domnick Walsh © Eye Focus LTD
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An aerial view of  the Human Chain Challenge on Strickeen Mountain in the Gap of Dunloe, Killarney on Sunday in support of Kerry Mental Health Association. Photo By : Domnick Walsh © Eye Focus LTD
An aerial view of  the Human Chain Challenge on Strickeen Mountain in the Gap of Dunloe, Killarney on Sunday in support of Kerry Mental Health Association. Photo By : Domnick Walsh © Eye Focus LTD

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Number Of Events For Kerry Mental Health And Wellbeing Fest

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The Kerry Mental Health and Wellbeing Fest is taking place over the coming week. Pictured at the launch back in August were Caroline Toal (Healthy Kerry), Lisa Foley (Maine Valley FRC), Geraldine O’Sullivan (Kerry Volunteer Centre), Carol Naughton (South Kerry Development Partnership), Caoimhe Keoghan (Jigsaw Kerry). Front L to Right: Gráinne Woulfe (HSE), John Drummey (Kerry Mental Health Association), Donagh Hennebry (HSE). Photo By : Domnick Walsh © Eye Focus LTD

THE Kerry Mental Health And Wellbeing Fest has kicked off with a host of events taking place around the county over the next week.

The festival coincides with World Mental Health Day on Tuesday, October 1o.

A fundraising breakfast with Kerry Captain, David Clifford and Mayo footballer, Pádraig O’Hora took place this morning on in the Great Southern Hotel, Killarney for #tiedayfriday while Miss Kerry Leah Galloway organised a fundraising coffee morning at The Lakeside Cafe at Tralee Bay Wetlands from 11am to 1pm.

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If you’re feeling energetic and want to get out and enjoy the fine weather over the weekend, The Human Chain Challenge on Strickeen in the Gap of Dunloe takes place between 9am and 12pm on Sunda with registration taking place at www.KerryMentalHealth.ie/human-chain-challenge.

Kerry Peer Support Network would like you to join them for a “Looking After Our Mental Health & Well-Being” Coffee Morning in Rahoonane Community Centre from 10:30-11:30am on Wednesday, October 11.

Chakradance Workshops are taking place in Siamsa Tire in the coming days, ‘Taking Care of Mental Health’ is an event at Madden’s Cafe Tralee.

It’s a workshop  for 18 to 25 year-olds and it will give you the space to explore what mental health means, what can influence our mental health, ways to care for mental health, and to learn more about where you can get support.

For many, many more events in the Tralee area and beyond, please go to https://kerrymentalhealthandwellbeingfest.com/events

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Kerry Mental Health Association Iveragh Branch Presents ‘Bus’ To Day Centre In Cahersiveen

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Kerry Mental Health Association Iveragh Branch presented a ‘bus’ costing over €50,000 to the Day Centre In Cahersiveen. Pictured are: Lucy Helen CNM2 Nurse , General Manager of Kerry Mental Health Association, John Drummey and Chair of the Kerry Mental Health Association Iveragh Branch, Jackie O’Sullivan. Photo by Domnick Walsh

KERRY Mental Health Association Iveragh Branch has presented a new people carrier vehicle to the Fertha View Day Centre in Cahersiveen to provide services users with easy access to appointments and outings.

The ‘bus’ costing over €50,000 was financed through funding support from the Helping Hand Charity Shop and annual bucket collection in Cahersiveen and a contribution from Kerry Mental Health Association central funds.

The Chair of the Kerry Mental Health Association Iveragh Branch, Jackie O’Sullivan, said: “It’s a pleasure to hand over this much needed bus to our local day centre. It will provide a wonderful amenity for the services users throughout the peninsula. The size of the vehicle means the staff can drive it, taking away the dependence of requiring the availability of a driver which was the previous situation.”

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The committee members in the Kerry Mental Health Association Iveragh Branch have expressed their sincere gratitude to all the volunteers and staff who made it possible and they wish the service users many years of safe travels.

They also thanked Mike Gallagher for pointing them in the direction of Wheelchair Cars Ireland from where the ‘bus’ was purchased.

The General Manager of Kerry Mental Health Association, John Drummey, said: “Congratulations to all the volunteers in our Iveragh Branch for their time, focus and energy. They should be very proud of this achievement which will benefit so many people in the south Kerry area. While respecting the privacy and dignity of the service users, we understand that it’s good for people to see that their donations are being invested in the wellbeing of others in the community. We are grateful to Lucy, Niamh, Lindsey and all the staff in the Fertha View Day Centre for their support”

Kerry Mental Health Association is preparing for a number of events over the coming weeks to coincide with World Mental Health Day on 10th October.

Limited tickets are still available for the fundraising breakfast with Kerry Captain, David Clifford and Mayo footballer, Pádraig O’Hora on #TieDayFriday 6th October in the Great Southern Hotel, Killarney.

Book now at www.KerryMentalHealth.ie/breakfast with the proceeds going towards funding the cost of rolling out FREE and affordable mental health first aid training in Kerry.

The Human Chain Challenge on Strickeen in the Gap of Dunloe takes place between 9am and 12pm on Sunday 8thOctober with registration taking place at www.KerryMentalHealth.ie/human-chain-challenge.

Miss Kerry 2023, Leah Galloway, is hosting a fundraising Coffee Morning at the Lakeside Café in Tralee Bay Wetlands from 11am to 1pm on #TieDayFriday 6th October.

The Kerry Mental Health Association Kenmare Branch is also hosting a coffee morning in the Wander Inn, Kenmare on #TieDayFriday 6th October.

Two Mental Health First Aid Courses, which will take place simultaneously in Tralee and Killarney on 12th and 13th October, are fully booked with more to follow before Christmas.

To make a donation to Kerry Mental Health Association, visit www.KerryMentalHealth.ie/donate

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Miss Kerry To Host Coffee Morning For Tie Day Friday

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Miss Kerry, Leah Galloway, is looking forward to the event next Friday.

MISS Kerry is getting involved in a great fundraiser this Friday by hosting an event in Tralee.

Leah Galloway will host a coffee morning at the Lakeside Cafe at Tralee Bay Wetlands  for Tie Day Friday. Taking place from 11am to 1pm, people are invited to come for coffee and treats and make a donation to the Kerry Mental Health Association.

On #TieDayFriday, everyone is encouraged to wear a tie – the more colourful and outrageous the better — and make a donation to a great cause.

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It’s all part of the Kerry Mental Health & Wellbeing Fest being held from October 7-14. A record-breaking number of free in-person and online events are taking place during the week where the key focus is to promote mental health and wellbeing in Kerry through a diverse programme of fun, informative and interactive events.

There are 120 events throughout the county to choose from. Visit www.KerryMentalHealthAndWellbeingFest.com to see the full event schedule or for general enquiries about the Kerry Mental Health and Wellbeing Fest, please email kerrymhwfest20@gmail.com.

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Record Number Of Events For Kerry Mental Health & Wellbeing Fest

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The key focus of the #KerryMHWFest is to promote mental health and wellbeing in Kerry through a diverse programme of fun, informative and interactive events. The benefits are not just for now but for the future as the kiddies from Laugh & Learn Pre-School Tralee (pictured) would agree. Photo By : Domnick Walsh © Eye Focus LTD 

A RECORD-BREAKING number of free in-person and online events are ready to roll during the Kerry Mental Health & Wellbeing Fest from October 7-14.

The key focus of the #KerryMHWFest is to promote mental health and wellbeing in Kerry through a diverse programme of fun, informative and interactive events. There are 120 events throughout the county to choose from.

Organised by an interagency steering group, the Kerry Mental Health and Wellbeing Fest is held annually to highlight World Mental Health Day on 10th October.

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The Chair of the Steering Committee and General Manager of Kerry Mental Health Association, John Drummey, said: “There’s something for everyone during this year’s programme of events from laughter yoga to cyberbullying workshops or from sound bathing to walks, hikes and water activities.”

“Our key focus is on creating awareness of, and scheduling events that empower people to engage with the Five Ways to Wellbeing – Connect | Be Active | Take Notice | Keep Learning | Give. In doing so, we are encouraging people in our communities throughout Kerry to take time to learn, talk, reflect and engage with others around the topic of mental health and wellbeing. We are committed to raising awareness of the available mental health and wellbeing supports and services in the county.”

All events are free, registration is essential and simple. It can be done by visiting the website at www.KerryMentalHealthAndWellbeingFest.com.

The organising committee is a collaboration between Connecting for Life Kerry, Healthy Kerry, Kerry County Council, Kerry Recreation & Sports Partnership, the HSE, NEWKD, SKDP, Kerry Mental Health Association, Jigsaw Kerry, Munster Technological University/Kerry, KDYS, Kerry Volunteer Centre and Family Resource Centres throughout the county.

Everyone on the committee would like to thank the event organisers and facilitators for giving their time to produce such a wide-ranging programme of activities and events.

Visit www.KerryMentalHealthAndWellbeingFest.com to see the full event schedule or for general enquiries about the Kerry Mental Health and Wellbeing Fest, please email kerrymhwfest20@gmail.com.

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Join The Human Chain On Strickeen To Support Kerry Mental Health Association

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Pictured at the launch of the Human Chain Mountain Challenge were John Drummey (General Manager Kerry Mental Health Association), Orla and Seán Drummey, Mags Keogh (Manager Ross Café Killarney) & TJ O’Connor (MTU Kerry). Photo By : Domnick Walsh © Eye Focus LTD .

KERRY Mental Health Association (KMHA) has launched its first Human Chain Mountain Challenge Walk to the top of Strickeen in the Gap of Dunloe near Killarney from 9am on Sunday, October 8.

Walkers are invited to register at https://kerrymentalhealth.ie/human-chain-challenge for a fun and colourful show of support for people with mental health challenges, their families and carers in Kerry.

The General Manager of Kerry Mental Health Association, John Drummey, said: “The Human Chain Challenge will take place two days before World Mental Health Day and will be the first in a series of annual walks of a similar nature throughout the county.”

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“A key aspect of our 2024 to 2027 strategy, which is being developed, is to have the necessary funds to roll-out free and affordable educational activities aimed at ensuring society is better informed about how to take care of its mental health,” he continued.

“We are grateful to the local landowners and the MacGillycuddy Reeks Access Forum for facilitating the Human Chain Challenge for Kerry Mental Health Association,” he said.

As the land is privately owned, advance registration is necessary with every walker receiving a free bright KMHA-branded bandana to be worn for the Official Human Chain Challenge Drone picture.

The registered walkers will need to wear appropriate clothing and footwear, children must be accompanied by responsible adults and dogs are not permitted. Car-pooling is also recommended as limited parking spaces will be available.

In the interest of safety, Kerry Mountain Rescue will be on 24-hour call and the Killarney Order of Malta will be on site at the foot of the mountain to provide First Aid assistance if required.

Kerry Mental Health Association supports the Leave No Trace campaign and will be encouraging all participants to leave Strickeen Mountain in the spotless condition that they found it.

The Human Chain Challenge at Strickeen on Sunday, October 8 will be preceded by the annual #TieDayFriday Fundraising event on Friday, October 6 – both taking place to coincide with World Mental Health Day on 10thOctober.

To register for free for the Human Chain Challenge visit https://kerrymentalhealth.ie/human-chain-challenge.

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David Clifford To Attend ‘Tie Day Friday’ Breakfast Fundraiser

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Kerry captain, David Clifford, with Kerry Mental Health Association General Manager, John Drummey (right) and Board Member, Conor Hennigan at the launch of the event. Photo: Domnick Walsh

DAVID Clifford and Pádraig O’Hora will be on the same team when they attend Kerry Mental Health Association’s #TieDayFriday Fundraising Business Breakfast in The Great Southern Killarney from 7am to 8.45am on October 6.

The Kerry Captain and his on-field marker from Mayo will be part of an expert panel discussion on the importance of staying connected in our communities and how to look after our mental wellbeing.

Pádraig O’Hora is a youth justice worker with Youth Work Ireland and community liaison officer with Mayo Mental Health Association.

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Key insights will be provided by two members of the Kerry Mental Health Association Board, Dr. Caitriona Kelly, Lecturer Department of Nursing and Healthcare Sciences at MTU Kerry and Samantha Keane who works as an engineer.

Individual Tickets for the Kerry Mental Health Association Business Breakfast are only €50 (plus booking fees) from www.KerryMentalHealth.ie/business-breakfast.

The General Manager of Kerry Mental Health Association, John Drummey, said: “Our vision is to ensure that society is better informed about how to take care of its mental health. This fundraising business breakfast will help us provide the educational infrastructure necessary to achieve that goal.

“We want to open a conversation to remind us all how important being part of a community is. We believe this can have a positive impact on mental health through social connection in business, sport and wider community activities.

“Kerry Mental Health Association is proud to bring together four key roles models in David Clifford, Pádraig O’Hora, Dr. Caitríona Kelly and Samantha Keane and we are grateful to them for giving their time to take part in the event.

“The Board and Management of Kerry Mental Health Association also has thanked Brian James Menswear Killarney and Grandview Media for their support on the morning of the breakfast event.”

The interactive panel discussion will flow between sport, business, and volunteering as we explore how important it is to stay connected in our communities at all life stages to look after our mental wellness.

Individual Tickets for the Kerry Mental Health Association Business Breakfast are only €50 (plus booking fees) from www.KerryMentalHealth.ie/business-breakfast.

Of course, being #TieDayFriday, everyone is encouraged to wear a tie on Friday 6th October – the more colourful and outrageous the better – and those who can’t attend the breakfast can make an online donation at www.KerryMentalHealth.ie/donate

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KMHA Invites Event Organisers To Take Part In Mental Health And Wellbeing Fest

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Issuing the invitation to event organizers to participate in the upcoming Kerry Mental Health at Wellbeing Fest were, at back; Caroline Toal (Healthy Kerry), Lisa Foley (Maine Valley FRC), Geraldine O’Sullivan (Kerry Volunteer Centre), Carol Naughton (South Kerry Development Partnership), Caoimhe Keoghan (Jigsaw Kerry). Front from left: Gráinne Woulfe (HSE), John Drummey (Kerry Mental Health Association), Donagh Hennebry (HSE) Photo By : Domnick Walsh © Eye Focus LTD

THE Kerry Mental Health and Wellbeing Fest, which will take place in the Kingdom from October 7th-14th, is inviting previous and new event organisers to take part in this year’s programme of activities.

The Kerry Mental Health and Wellbeing Fest aims to empower people to learn about and practice the 5 Ways to Wellbeing – Connect ¦ Give ¦ Take Notice ¦ Keep Learning ¦ Be Active. It also raises awareness of the supports and services available to the Kerry community.

The Kerry Mental Health and Wellbeing Fest benefits the whole community and is therefore reliant on the good will of organisations and qualified individuals to deliver events that are free to the public.

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The Chair of the Steering Committee and General Manager of Kerry Mental Health Association, John Drummey, said: “It is our aim to make this year’s Fest the biggest and best so far by facilitating the staging of over 80 free mental health and wellbeing events.

To do this we need more organisations, sports clubs, businesses, professionals, and members of our community to host events for free within their areas.

The call for event organisers for the 2023 Kerry Mental Health and Wellbeing Fest is now open until Thursday 31st August, so if you’re ready to upload your events feel free to log on and register the details on our new website.”

The Steering Committee will hold a free online information session about the Fest on Wednesday 9th August 2023 from 10:30am – 11:30am covering:

· A brief overview of the Fest & previous events

· The benefits of being an event organiser

·  Past event organisers

· A demonstration of how to use the website

·  Q&A

This session will be suitable for those who are interested in getting involved and hosting an event for the first time and those who have worked with us before.  If you know anyone who might be interested, please spread the word!

The registration link for this session is https://forms.gle/wKsNAyXFKbY8MELx7 or register via the Kerry Mental Health & Wellbeing Fest website https://kerrymentalhealthandwellbeingfest.com/.

Once again, the application process to host an event will be managed via the website where you can register as an organiser and create as many events as you would like to host.

Should you have any questions, please let us know by emailing us at kerrymhwfest20@gmail.com.

The Kerry Mental Health and Wellbeing Fest organising committee is a collaboration between Connecting for Life Kerry, Healthy Kerry, Kerry County Council, Kerry Recreation & Sports Partnership, Health Promotion & Improvement Department HSE, NEWKD, SKDP, Kerry Mental Health Association, Jigsaw Kerry, Munster Technological University/Kerry, KDYS, Kerry Family Resource Centres, MTU Students Union and Kerry Volunteer Centre.

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Has Your Dad Got Talent? Nominate Him For This Competition

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Pictured at the launch of ‘My Dad’s Got Talent in aid of the Kerry Mental Health Association in Traee’s Town Park were : John Drummey, Kerry Mental Health Association with his daughter Orla. Photo By : Domnick Walsh © Eye Focus LTD

IF your dad can sing, dance, play music, cook, tell jokes, do keepy-uppies or solve a Rubix Cube, then he should enter “My Dad’s Got Talent” which takes place at Féile na mBláth in Tralee on Father’s Day.

Families throughout Kerry must nominate your dad before the Monday, June 12, closing date to make sure he’s in with a chance of being shortlisted for the final on Father’s Day, Sunday, June 18.

The Coordinator of Féile na mBláth, Bryan Carr, said: “There is no better way to celebrate Father’s Day than by staging a fun event that showcases some of the most talented dads in the Kingdom.

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“As someone who runs a stage school, it’s clear to see that the children who attend our classes didn’t lick their talent off the floor. Simon Cowell won’t be available to attend but our panel of judges are looking forward to the mother of all Father’s Day entertainment events,” added Bryan.

To enter, send a video, 30 to 60 seconds in duration, of your dad performing his talent to Radio Kerry’s Whatsapp 083 300 3 300 before 6pm on Monday 12th June.

The 10 Finalists will be chosen by Elaine Kinsella and Andrew Morrissey from Kerry’s Full Breakfast and Brendan Fuller from The Afternoon Show on Radio Kerry.

All nominees must be available to perform in the final on Father’s Day, Sunday 18th June during Féile na mBláth in Tralee Town Park.

My Dad’s Got Talent will be presented in partnership with Kerry Mental Health Association who are happy to support events that connect people and communities while promoting mental wellbeing.

The overall winner of My Dad’s Got Talent will receive a wonderful prize of a Family Lunch in the magnificent Rose Hotel Tralee while all 10 finalists will receive a family pass to the Aqua Dome Tralee.

Don’t miss the deadline of Monday 12th June by which time you must send a video (approximately 30 to 60 seconds) of your dad performing his talent to Radio Kerry’s Whatsapp 083 300 3 300.

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Kerry Community-Based Organisations To Be Offered Mental Health First Aid Training

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Launching the roll-out of the Kerry Mental Health Association’s programme of free and affordable mental health first aid training courses in the county were KMHA General Manager John Drummey, TJ O’Connor, Mark Murphy, Maedhbh Keegan and Mike Randles. Photo By : Domnick Walsh © Eye Focus LTD 

KERRY Mental Health Association has commenced the roll-out of its programme of free and affordable mental health first aid training courses in the county.

Four volunteers based in Tralee, Kenmare, Killorglin and Cahersiveen have completed the recent mental health first aid instructor course at MTU Kerry.

Maedhbh Keegan, TJ O’Connor, Mark Murphy and Mike Randles are looking forward to welcoming adults involved in community and not-for-profit organisations to the upcoming mental health first aid courses.

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Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is the initial help given to someone who is developing a mental health problem, experiencing a worsening of an existing mental health problem or a mental health crisis. The first aid is given until appropriate professional support is received or until the crises resolves.

The General Manager of KMHA, John Drummey, who’s an accredited mental health first aid instructor said; “We have committed considerable time and energy to secure the funding to cover the cost of training four Kerry-based volunteer mental health first aid instructors. The course teaches people how to assist someone who is developing a mental health problem or in a mental health crisis.

“There might never be a need to put this training into effect, but more community organisations want to be prepared should the need arise. Kerry Mental Health Association organised two mental health first aid courses in 2022 and the plan is to deliver eight courses in 2023.”

The courses are licensed by Mental Health First Aid Ireland while the training has been shown to improve attitudes towards people with mental health difficulties, reduce stigma and improve knowledge. It improves people’s confidence in providing help and likelihood to advise people to seek  professional help.

Kerry Mental Health Association is grateful to Mental Health First Aid Ireland for moving their instructor training course to Tralee while a generous once-off grant from the Department of Health and Mental Health Ireland funded the five-day course.

Kerry Mental Health Association wants to hear from community or not-for-profit organisations in the county to compile a schedule of mental health first aid courses during the second half of the year. For more information, contact Manager@KerryMentalHealth.ie or phone 083 2032742.

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Office Chair Racing Fun Planned For Tralee Food Festival

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Pictured on The Mall for the launch of the Office Chair Racing during the Tralee Food Festival were John Drummey General Manager of Kerry Mental Health Association and Ken Tobin of the Tralee Food Festival. Photo By : Domnick Walsh © Eye Focus LTD

OFFICE chair racing has been added to the Tralee Food Festival event programme with well-known names competing in support of Kerry Mental Health Association along The Mall, Tralee from 2pm on Sunday, May 21.

While food lovers are milling into their Taste Trail treats, they can enjoy watching the Mayor of Tralee, local gardaí, an Olympic rower, a Kerry Senior Football Manager and others scramble for success on their office chairs.

In fact, the return of a fun event such as the Office Chair races provides the organisers with the perfect ‘vehicle’ to drive home the importance of workplace wellbeing and healthy eating.

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The General Manager of Kerry Mental Health Association, charity partner of Tralee Food Festival, John Drummey said: “Here’s some food for thought. We spend so much time every week in our office chairs – at home or in the actual workplace – that we sometimes forget to take time out and look after our mental health.

“Most people with mental health challenges live productive and positive lives while managing the challenges. A recent workplace survey with 900 respondents showed a significant need for mental health support at work with both employees and employers agreeing that their job can be a direct challenge to their mental health. This event will help shine a spotlight on the importance of minding our own mental health and that of our colleagues at work as much as anywhere else.”

The participants who are planning to give their time to race on the office chairs are: Mayor of Tralee, Cllr Mikey Sheehy; Deputy Mayor Cllr Terry O’Brien, Cllr Deirdre Ferris and Cllr Cathal Foley; 4-time All-Ireland winner and first Dancing with the Stars Champion, Aidan O’Mahony; Olympic rower, Monika Dukarska; Tralee Chamber President Nathan McDonnell; Joint Kerry Ladies Senior Football Manager, Declan Quill; Garda Mary Gardiner; and Garvey’s Tralee Warriors Captains (past and present), Darren and Fergal O’Sullivan.

There may be an opportunity for members of the public to take part at their own risk to help support the Kerry Mental Health Association in its mission to promote mental wellbeing.

The racers have been sponsored by some generous local businesses to whom the organisers are most grateful: Kirby’s Brogue Inn, MJs Diner, Jam Café Manor West Retail Park, Tuk Tuk Street Food Manor West Retail Park, Dan Fitzgerald & Sons, Paddy Macs Pub, Tralee Chamber Alliance and Lakeside Café at Tralee Bay Wetlands.

Ken Tobin from the Tralee Food Festival Organising Team said, “We are delighted to choose Kerry Mental Health Association as our charity partner. There is so much to learn every day about the importance of exercise and a healthy diet when minding our mental and physical health. Kerry Mental Health Association is leading the way in this area by organising or provide financial support for various therapies that may be helpful to people in our communities with mental health challenges, their families and carers. We hope that everyone comes out to enjoy the fun of the Office Chair Races in Tralee on Sunday 21st May.”

Kerry Mental Health Association will be placing collection buckets at each of the pubs, restaurants and cafés participating in the Tralee Food Festival giving customers an opportunity to make a donation over the weekend.

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Michelle Teams Up With KMHA For Seasonal Creative Wellbeing Video Initiative

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General Manager of Kerry Mental Health Association, John Drummey with Michelle McElligott.

KERRY Mental Health Association has teamed-up with Tralee-based Michelle McElligott to promote mental wellbeing through the art of creating floral decorations at home.

Michelle, who creates stunning floral arrangements as a hobby, has given her time to demonstrate, on video, how to make floral arrangements at home, school or in community and mental health day centres.

The General Manager of Kerry Mental Health Association, John Drummey, said: “There are simple things we can do as part of our daily life to protect our mental health. Each of the Five Ways To Wellbeing – Connect | Be Active | Take Notice | Keep Learning | Give – can play a key part in helping each of us mind our mental health.”

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“Last Christmas we promoted this through the art of baking while this year, we’re embracing the fun and challenges associated with creating floral decorations. We are grateful to Michelle McElligott for giving her time to share her talent with viewers who will enjoy recreating her arrangements.”

In episode one, Michelle shows how to make a beautiful wreath/garland for the front door, the second is a novel Christmas cracker and the third is a table candle decoration.

All three videos can be viewed on Kerry Mental Health Association’s Facebook page, Twitter feed and on the following YouTube links:

Episode 1 – Christmas Floral Wreath/Garland
Episode 2 – Christmas Floral Cracker Decoration
Episode 3 – Christmas Floral Candle Table Centrepiece

If you or someone you know is experiencing a personal crisis, is unable to cope and needs support, text HELLO to 50808. If your life is in imminent risk, call 112 or 999 for emergency help. Details of other resources are available from Local Supports – Kerry Mental Health Association.

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PHOTOS: Kerry Mental Health Fest Begins With Music And Fun Run Events

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Aftershock performing at Re-Energise at Pearse Park on Saturday. Photo by Dermot Crean

THE Kerry Mental Health and Wellbeing Fest got underway on Saturday with events taking place all over the county.

In Tralee, Jigsaw Kerry organised a Re-Energise concert in Pearse Park with Aftershock, Owen Rua and Molly Kate Brosnan and Kimaya Joy providing the entertainment.

Meanwhile, over in Fenit, a walk/run along the Tralee-Fenit Greenway took place with Cathaoirleach of Kerry County Council John Francis Flynn in attendance.

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‘My Mental Health Matters’ is the theme for the 2022 Kerry Mental Health and Wellbeing Fest which features a wide range of in-person and online activities to suit all ages from October 8th to 15th.

The key focus of the #KerryMHWFest, which is celebrating five years, is to promote mental health and wellbeing in Kerry through a fun and interactive programme of events throughout the county.

See www.KerryMentalHealthAndWellbeingFest.com for more. All events are free, registration is essential and can be done by visiting the website or following #KerryMHWFest on social media. Scroll down for photos…

Molly Kate Brosnan and Kimaya Joy performing at Re-Energise at Pearse Park on Saturday. Photo by Dermot Crean
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Fionnuala Murray and Caoimhe Keogan at Re-Energise at Pearse Park on Saturday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Seated; Megan Diggins and Davin Godfrey with Neil Moore Ryan and Laoise Rush at Re-Energise at Pearse Park on Saturday. Photo by Dermot Crean
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Participants in a walk/run at the Tralee-Fenit Greenway in Fenit on Saturday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Participants in a walk/run at the Tralee-Fenit Greenway in Fenit on Saturday. Photo by Dermot Crean
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Participants in a walk/run at the Tralee-Fenit Greenway in Fenit on Saturday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Ainle and Deirdre Ferris at the walk/run at the Tralee-Fenit Greenway from Fenit on Saturday. Photo by Dermot Crean
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Wide Range Of Activities For Kerry Mental Health And Wellbeing Fest

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The Kerry Mental Health & Wellbeing Fest, which celebrates five years from 8th to 15th October, will promote mental health and wellbeing through fun and interactive events throughout the county. Pictured at the launch in Páirc an Phiarsaigh, Tralee were Aodhan Morrison , Molly Brosnan , Fionnuala Murray , Keira Griffin , David Peskett and Orla Drummey. Photo: Domnick Walsh

‘MY Mental Health Matters’ is the theme for the 2022 Kerry Mental Health and Wellbeing Fest which will feature a wide range of in-person and online activities to suit all ages from October 8-15.

The key focus of the #KerryMHWFest, which is celebrating five years, is to promote mental health and wellbeing in Kerry through a fun and interactive programme of events throughout the county.

Well known Irish sports and entertainment personalities have joined many local voices – young and old – to share a video message outlining how their mental health matters to them.

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Boyzone singer and actor, Keith Duffy, said: “Whether I’m on tour, chilling in my dressing room, or if I’m doing my grocery shopping in the supermarket, my mental health matters.”

Magician Keith Barry, Kerry Paralympian Jordan Lee, Otto the Clown from Fossetts Circus, All-Ireland winning captain, Sean O’Shea and many other Kerry people, have also shared similar mental health messages.

Organised by an interagency steering group, the Kerry Mental Health and Wellbeing Fest is held annually to highlight World Mental Health Day on 10th October.

The Chair of the Steering Committee and Resource Officer for Suicide Prevention in Kerry, Donagh Hennebry, said: “The key message from this year’s Fest is that we all need to remember that whatever we do and wherever we are – regardless of gender, age or employment status – our mental health matters. The emphasis on community and the role that we can all play in ensuring our own mental health, and that of our friends and family, is strong.More events are in-person this year which will help us to connect with others more than was possible during Covid. We are grateful to the many people who have put their names forward to host a range of fun and interactive events that will promote mental health and wellbeing in Kerry.”

The Kerry Mental Health and Wellbeing Fest aims to create awareness of, and schedule events that empower people to engage with, the Five Ways to Wellbeing – Connect | Give | Take Notice | Keep Learning | Be Active.

There’s still time for sports clubs, organisations, workplace or community groups to host an event on the new website: www.KerryMentalHealthAndWellbeingFest.com.

All events are free, registration is essential and can be done by visiting the website or following #KerryMHWFest on social media.

The organising committee is a collaboration between Connecting for Life Kerry, Healthy Kerry, Kerry County Council, Kerry Recreation & Sports Parntership, the HSE, NEWKD, SKDP, Kerry Mental Health Association, Jigsaw Kerry, Munster Technological University/Kerry, KDYS, and Kerry Volunteer Centre.

Visit www.KerryMentalHealthAndWellbeingFest.com to see the full event schedule or for general enquiries about the Kerry Mental Health and Wellbeing Fest, please email kerrymhwfest20@gmail.com

Call For Event Organisers For This Year’s Kerry Mental Health And Wellbeing Fest

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John Drummey, (Kerry Mental Health Association), Donagh Hennebry (Chair of Interagency Steering Committee/Resource Officer for Suicide Prevention) and Deirdre Hegarty (Healthy Kerry Coordinator) at the launch of last year’s Kerry Mental Health and Wellbeing Fest. Photo: Pauline Dennigan

THE Kerry Mental Health and Wellbeing Fest, which celebrates five years from 8th to 14th October 2022, has launched a new website and the call for event organisers for this year’s Fest is now open.

The multi-agency Fest Steering Committee is inviting event organisers to attend a free online information session on Wednesday, 27th July 2022 from 10:30am – 11:00am.

This year, the application process to host an event will be done via the website, https://kerrymentalhealthandwellbeingfest.com/, where you can register as an organiser and create as many events as you would like to host.

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As this is an event that benefits the whole community, we rely on the good will of organisations and qualified individuals to deliver events that are free to the public.

The Chair of the Steering Committee and Resource Officer for Suicide Prevention in Kerry, Donagh Hennebry, said: “We are very excited to make this year’s Fest the biggest and best so far. To do this we need you! We are looking for organisations, sports clubs, businesses, professionals, and members of our community to host events for free within their areas. The call for event organisers for the 2022 Kerry Mental Health and Wellbeing Fest is now open until Friday 5th August, so if you’re ready to upload your events feel free to log on and register the details on our new website.”

The Steering Committee will hold a free online information session about the Fest on Wednesday, July 27 from 10:30am – 11:00am covering:

• A brief overview of the Fest & previous events;
• The benefits of being an event organiser
• Past event organisers
• A demonstration of how to use the new site
• Q&A

This session will be suitable for those who are interested in getting involved and hosting an event for the first time and those who have worked with them before.

The registration link for this session is here: https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/kerry-mental-health-wellbeing-fest-information-session-tickets-380419433767

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Kerry Basketball Teams Promote ‘5 Ways To Wellbeing’ With Kerry Mental Health Association

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Pictured at Kerry Airport to launch the Kerry Mental Health Association’s campaign with five local basketball clubs were, front from left; Paris McCarthy (Team Garveys St Mary’s Castleisland) and John Drummey (General Manager, Kerry Mental Health Association). Back from left; David Gleeson (Scott’s Lakers St Paul’s Killarney) , Eoin Evans (Team 360 Financial Killorglin), Andrew Fitzgerald (Killarney Cougars) and Fergal O’Sullivan (Garveys Tralee Warriors). Photo by Domnick Walsh © Eye Focus LTD

KERRY Mental Health Association and the five teams in the county that compete in the Basketball Super and National Leagues have come together to promote mental health and wellbeing in 2022.

Fans at home games in Tralee, Killorglin, Castleisland and Killarney will hear information about the Five Ways To Wellbeing during the ‘Timeouts’ in matches for the remainder of the season.

The Five Ways To Wellbeing are: Connect | Be Active | Take Notice | Keep Learning | Give.

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The General Manager of Kerry Mental Health Association, John Drummey, said: “January and February are when many of us need a bit of lift. Wellbeing is not just about being in good physical condition. It crucially includes the state of your mental health. If our minds are not in a good place, there can be a series of knock-on effects that will impact the quality of our overall wellbeing.

“We are grateful to the men and women who play with Kerry’s five senior basketball teams for sharing their ‘timeouts’ to promote the Five Ways To Wellbeing. Kerry Mental Health Association recognises and appreciates the volunteers who work in the background to promote basketball from underage to senior level throughout the county. We wish them a healthy 2022 and every success in their respective competitions.”

What are the 5 Ways To Wellbeing?

Connect…with the people around you. Family and friends, work colleagues and people in your community. If you can’t connect with someone in person, there’s always the phone, a direct message on social media or text or the good old-fashioned posted letter. You’ll feel good for getting in touch and the person you reach out to will appreciate the connection that’s being made.

Be Active…whatever the weather or wherever you are. The Kerry weather shouldn’t stop us from going for a walk, run or cycle. Put on your favourite song and dance your heart out! No one has to see you and if they do, it might give them a lift too! Being physically active can improve your mental health and wellbeing.

Take Notice…of the world around you. Have you seen or heard something today that you never noticed before? Seasons change…the clouds make interesting shapes, the rain and wind combine to create a rhythmic backing track to your “me-time”.  Pay attention to the present moment.

Keep Learning…something new or reconnect with something that you used to enjoy doing. Challenging yourself learning a new skill will increase your confidence which can improve your mental health and wellbeing.

Give…someone a compliment, your unused parking disc, your time as a volunteer. You’ll feel good about yourself. Thanking someone for something they’ve done for you is the gift of appreciation.

Kerry Mental Health Association is inviting people to join any of the nine branches where the volunteers pursue befriending and support activities to enrich the lives of neighbours and friends who are living with mental health challenges, including mental illness.

“It is our mission to promote mental health to everyone in Kerry, to support people with mental health challenges, their families and carers through the activities of our Branch network and to provide accommodation for persons with mental health challenges,” said John Drummey.

Kerry Mental Health Association thanks and sends best wishes for the remainder of the basketball season to Garvey’s Tralee Warriors, Team 360 Financial Killorglin, Team Garvey’s St Mary’s Castleisland, Scotts Lakers St Pauls Killarney and Killarney Cougars.

For more information about Kerry Mental Health Association or to get involved as a Volunteer, please visit www.KerryMentalHealth.ie or email Volunteers@KerryMentalHealth.ie

Have Your Cake And Eat It While Raising Funds For Kerry Mental Health Association

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Kerry Mental Health Association General Manager, John Drummey, MTU Final Year TV, Radio and New Media Student, Finbarr O’Donovan and master baker Oliver Hurley launching the Christmas Cake fundraiser. Photo By : Domnick Walsh © Eye Focus LTD .

KERRY Mental Health Association has a solution to help home bakers cope with one of the most stressful aspects associated with preparing for the Festive Season – the Christmas Cake!

The charity has collaborated with Master Baker Oliver Hurley to present a video demonstrating how to bake a delicious Christmas Cake without the stress and there’s also a chance to win the cake.

Please donate and guess the weight of the cake at iDonate.ie | Support Christmas Cake before Tuesday, December 21 for a chance to win the cake and the €20 note that’s been hidden inside!

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The General Manager of Kerry Mental Health Association, John Drummey, said: “The theme of the Christmas Cake, as you’ll see from the icing on the cake, is based on our continuing promotion of the 5 Ways To Wellbeing – Connect | Be Active | Take Notice | Keep Learning | Give.

“The video demonstrates how easy it can be to bake a cake for family and friends to enjoy over Christmas. We hope that some people will go to the fundraising page to donate and guess the weight to have an opportunity to taste how good Oliver’s cake is!”

Oliver Hurley, an award-winning theatre director and owner of the Oliver Hurley School of Musical Theatre, turned to baking during the lockdown as a means of looking after his mental health.

Oliver developed Olly’s Delights and has baked hundreds of cakes over the past few months: “People panic when they think about baking at home and they think it’s going to take too much time. It actually doesn’t and the secret is to have everything ready before your start. Have everything laid out – ingredients and utensils – and the mixture will be ready to go into the oven after 15 minutes. The key is preparation because it takes the stress out of baking the Christmas cake two or three weeks out giving you time to concentrate on the shopping!”

Watch Oliver’s Christmas Cake Demonstration video on the Kerry Mental Health Association YouTube Channel while the fundraising campaign to donate and guess the weight of the cake runs until Tuesday, December 21. https://fb.watch/9rcNFpuK1X/

All proceeds raised will go towards supporting the befriending and other mental health promotional activities undertaken by Kerry Mental Health Association.

The video was recorded and edited by Finbarr O’Donovan, a Final Year student of TV, Radio and New Media at Munster Technological University in Tralee.

If you or someone you know is experiencing a personal crisis, is unable to cope and needs support, text HELLO to 50808. If your life is in imminent risk, call 112 or 999 for emergency help.

Details of other resources are available from Local Supports – Kerry Mental Health Association.

Kerry Olympians Support Upcoming Kerry Mental Health And Wellbeing Fest

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Olympians, Monika Dukarska and Aileen Crowley, have rowed-in with their support for the 2021 Kerry Mental Health & Wellbeing Fest by coming on board as Ambassadors. Photo: Domnick Walsh

KILLORGLIN’S two Olympians have rowed-in with their support for the 2021 Kerry Mental Health & Wellbeing Fest by coming on board as Ambassadors for the event from 9th to 16thOctober.

Monika Dukarska and Aileen Crowley, who recently competed for Ireland in the rowing at the Tokyo Games, have asked people of all ages to get involved in the Festival for the good of their mental health.

The Kerry Mental Health and Wellbeing Fest aims to create awareness of, and schedule events that empower people to engage with, the Five Ways to Wellbeing – Connect | Give | Take Notice | Keep Learning | Be Active.

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Monika Dukarska said one of the Five Ways to Wellbeing was of particular benefit to her during her Olympic preparations: “When things were getting tough with selection or training sessions, I was journaling and writing down things that went well rather than putting pressure on myself constantly to perform. I was picking very small targets or things that I enjoyed about my day to detach from the pressure of performing all the time. That worked for me superbly. It gave me things to enjoy that I wouldn’t necessarily have taken notice of before.”

The Olympic Rowers, as women in sport, are delighted to see that many of the events during the Kerry Mental Health and Wellbeing Fest will be geared towards women and girls.

Aileen Crowley from Killorglin Rowing Club and Rowing Ireland said: “I can only see a workplace environment from a sporting perspective and I’m definitely aware that it is different for women, from what I’ve noticed in sport. So, to see female-specific events is fantastic because there is a difference, unfortunately, in most workplaces between men and women, and for kids from an early age up to adulthood, but that is starting to balance out.”

Organised by an interagency steering group, the Kerry Mental Health and Wellbeing Fest is held annually to highlight World Mental Health Day on 10th October.

The organising committee is a collaboration between Connecting for Life Kerry, Healthy Kerry, Kerry County Council, the HSE, NEWKD, SKDP, Kerry Mental Health Association, Jigsaw Kerry, Munster Technological University/Kerry, and Kerry Volunteer Centre.

The Chair of the Steering Committee and Resource Officer for Suicide Prevention in Kerry, Donagh Hennebry, said: “Wellbeing is when you’re feeling good and functioning well. Our event Ambassadors know that it’s not just about being in good physical condition, but it crucially includes the state of your mental health. We are grateful to Monika Dukarska and Aileen Crowley for sharing their knowledge and experience with everyone involved in the 2021 Kerry Mental Health and Wellbeing Fest.”

The key focus of the #KerryMHWFest is to promote mental health and wellbeing in Kerry through a fun and interactive programme of online and in-person events.

All events are FREE, registration is required for some activities and can be done by contacting the organiser directly or use the registration links provided in the brochure.

Visit www.HealthyKerry.ie to see the full event schedule or for general enquiries about the Kerry Mental Health and Wellbeing Fest, please email kerrymhwfest20@gmail.com.

Sponsored: Kerry Mental Health Association To Recruit Property/Housing Manager

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KERRY Mental Health Association has announced that it is seeking to recruit a Property/Housing Manager.

As an Approved Housing Body with nine residences throughout the Kingdom, Kerry Mental Health Association provides housing units for people living with mental ill-health who are on the local authority housing list.

The Chairperson of the Kerry Mental Health Association Board of Trustees, Pat O’Brien, said: “This vacancy on our team has arisen following the decision of Dan O’Connor to retire after more than 20 years with the Charity. During that time, he has developed strong working relationships with the Housing Authority and HSE to arrange accommodation and ongoing support for eligible persons. We are grateful to Dan for his hard work and dedication as well as his passion for promoting mental wellbeing. We wish Dan good health for a long and happy retirement.”

The successful candidate for the role of Housing/Property Manager will coordinate all aspects of the Kerry Mental Health Association’s housing programme, including tenancies, maintenance, and fire safety.

Qualifications:

• 3-5 years’ Managerial experience in a voluntary or business organisation in any or all of the Construction and Housing/Homeless Services
• Experience collaborating with statutory organisations, retaining existing and building new relationships
• Proven ability to work on own initiative with excellent self-management experience
• A full clean driving license is required

Desirable

• Experience in the field of Mental Health Recovery and/or Promotion
• A 3rd Level qualification in Housing Management, Psychiatric Nursing, Social Work or equivalent.

This is a Part-Time position which may develop into a Full-Time role. The successful candidate will report to the General Manager while the salary will be commensurate with the experience of the individual appointed.

Please send your C.V. and letter of application to Manager@KerryMentalHealth.ie or General Manager, Kerry Mental Health Association, Upper Lewis Road, Killarney, Co. Kerry by 5pm on Friday 8th October 2021.

The objective of Kerry Mental Health Association is to promote the general welfare of people and to support those with mental health challenges and their families and carers.

Free Events For Kerry Mental Health And Wellbeing Fest

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Pictured at the launch of the Kerry Mental Health and Wellbeing Fest in Listowel were Deirdre Hegarty (Healthy Kerry Coordinator), Mayor of Kerry, Cllr Jimmy Moloney, Geraldine O’Sullivan (Manager Kerry Volunteer Centre), Donagh Hennebry (Chair of Interagency Steering Committee/Resource Officer for Suicide Prevention) and John Drummey, (Kerry Mental Health Association). Photo: Pauline Dennigan

THE programme of free events for the 2021 Kerry Mental Health and Wellbeing Fest has been launched with a range of activities to suit all ages from October 9-16.

The key focus of the #KerryMHWFest is to promote mental health and wellbeing in Kerry through a fun and interactive programme of online and in-person events.

The Kerry Mental Health and Wellbeing Fest aims to create awareness of, and schedule events (which can be seen by clicking here) that empower people to engage with, the Five Ways to Wellbeing – Connect | Give | Take Notice | Keep Learning | Be Active.

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The Mayor of Kerry, Cllr Jimmy Moloney, who launched this year’s Kerry Mental Health and Wellbeing Fest, said: “The past 18 months, more than any other time in our lives, has taught us how we need to mind our mental health. During this year’s Kerry Mental Health and Wellbeing Fest, I’m encouraging everyone in the county to take time out to learn, talk, reflect, and engage with others around the topic of mental health and wellbeing. We should also encourage anyone with mental health issues to reach out and avail of supports and services available.”

Organised by an interagency steering group, the Kerry Mental Health and Wellbeing Fest is held annually to highlight World Mental Health Day on October 10.

The Chair of the Steering Committee and Resource Officer for Suicide Prevention in Kerry, Donagh Hennebry, said: “We are grateful to the many people who have put their names forward to host a range of fun and interactive events that will promote mental health and wellbeing in Kerry.

“The emphasis on community and the role that we can all play in ensuring our own mental health, and that of our friends and family, is strong. Many events are online again this year due to Covid, but this gives us an opportunity to widen our reach to welcome festival-goers to enjoy a virtual experience from afar.”

The organising committee is a collaboration between Connecting for Life Kerry, Healthy Kerry, Kerry County Council, the HSE, NEWKD, SKDP, Kerry Mental Health Association, Jigsaw Kerry, Munster Technological University/Kerry, and Kerry Volunteer Centre.

All events are free, registration is essential and can be done by contacting the organiser of that event directly or use the registration links provided in the brochure.

Visit www.HealthyKerry.ie to see the full event schedule or for general enquiries about the Kerry Mental Health and Wellbeing Fest, please email kerrymhwfest20@gmail.com.

Kerry Mental Health Association Welcomes Wellbeing Hub

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KERRY Mental Health Association has welcomed the launch of the Kerry Mental Health and Wellbeing Hub which will improve the accessibility to mental health supports for young people in the county.

The Hub is made up statutory and community services that together provide a wide range of supports across 20+ issues from addiction to depression to self-harm.

The supports are tailored at various levels of need, from online information to group support, to one-to-one counselling so the user will always be able to find the right support, at the right time.

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The General Manager of Kerry Mental Health Association, John Drummey, said: “We welcome the launch of the Kerry Mental Health and Wellbeing Hub and we are proud to be listed as one of the service providers on the website. More than half (53%) of the respondents to our recent survey of Leaving Certificate students in Kerry said they would not know where to go if they, or someone they know, needed help from professional mental health services right away. The Kerry Mental Health and Wellbeing Hub was in development when the survey took place and we hope that it will help young people to secure the right supports when they need them most.”

The Kerry Mental Health & Wellbeing Hub originated under Kerry Child & Youth Mental Health Working Group of Kerry (CYPSC) who identified a need for a central source of information on mental health supports in the county of Kerry.

CYPSC works in collaboration with all statutory and community & voluntary services in the county which provide services & supports to children, young people, and families.

The aim of the group is to identify gaps in service provision and address them through interagency working. Central to the work is ensuring that children and young people are ‘front & centre’ and can access information & identify appropriate supports quickly and easily.

A link to the CYPSC is available on the Local Resources page on www.KerryMentalHealth.ie.

PHOTOS: Midnite Café Performs Pop-Up Gigs At Tralee Housing Estates

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Midnite Café with Aoife Ross, Orla and Ciara Drummey who volunteered for Kerry Mental Health Association.

POPULAR Tralee band Midnite Café dusted off their instruments to perform their first gigs in 16 months in front of excited residents in four housing estates in town yesterday  afternoon.

Kerry Mental Health Association’s Tralee Branch benefitted from a collection at each location where the generosity was overwhelming on a glorious afternoon.

Miah Lynch Transport sponsored the mobile stage which visited Derrylea in Oakpark, Caheranne Village on Strand Road, Mounthawk Manor and Connolly Park, in that order.

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The final performance was outside the home of Richie Greer, father of the band’s drummer, Damian. Richie celebrated his 80th birthday on Saturday.

Richie Greer celebrated his 80th birthday with a surprise performance from Midnite Café outside his house in Connolly Park, all in support of Kerry Mental Health Association. Richie’s son Damian is the drummer with the band.

There were birthday celebrations in Mounthawk Manor as well where John Murphy, originally from St Brendan’s Park, marked his 60th with family.

The General Manager of Kerry Mental Health Association, John Drummey, said: “An event like this is just what the doctor ordered. It was a tonic for the mind on a beautiful sunny afternoon. It was all about community spirit and it showed how much we need our friends and neighbours. Credit to the residents’ associations who made it possible, to the band who showed no signs of rustiness after lockdown, and the team of experienced volunteer stewards, led by Martin Brosnan and Ann O’Shea, who made sure the show ran smoothly and safely.”

Limited to a maximum of 200 attendees per venue under Covid guidelines, the volunteers with Kerry Mental Health Association’s Tralee Branch were bowled-over by the number of donations they received at each venue.

Lucids and O’Donnells and friends in Mounthawk Manor enjoying Midnite Café’s performance for Kerry Mental Health Association.

Tralee Garda Station granted the collection permit and assisted on the day. Kingdom Fast Hire kindly sponsored the generator which powered the sound from the stage.

The objective of Kerry Mental Health Association is to promote the general welfare of people and to support those with mental health challenges and their families and carers through the provision of information, by advocating on their behalf; to provide education and training programmes that promote good mental health and wellbeing; and supports those with mental health challenges.

Expressions of interest from prospective volunteers are most welcome.
For more information, email volunteers@kerrymentalhealth.ie / info@kerrymentalhealth.ie or visitwww.KerryMentalHealth.ie. Scroll down for photos…

Paul and Aileen Riordan watching Midnite Café perform for Kerry Mental Health Association in Connolly Park.
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Seán McCord and Mike Leahy of Midnite Café signed autographs after their Mounthawk Manor gig in support of Kerry Mental Health Association.
Midnite Café with Terry Griffin and Ita Neligan of Kerry Mental Health Association Tralee Branch in Mounthawk Manor.
Sharon Costello with John Drummey, General Manager of Kerry Mental Health Association enjoying the music of Midnite Café in Caheranne Village.
Kate Lynch (4) enjoying Midnite Café’s performance for Kerry Mental Health Association in Caheranne Village.
Residents in Derrylea, Oakpark enjoying the music of Midnite Café who performed in support of Kerry Mental Health Association.

Register Now For Kerry Mental Health And Wellbeing Fest

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Mayor of Kerry Cllr Patrick Connor Scarteen pictured with some members of the Steering Committee at the launch of the 2020 Kerry Mental Health and Wellbeing Fest.

THE closing date of Friday, June 25, to register an interest in hosting an activity or event during the 2021 Kerry Mental Health and Wellbeing Fest, is fast approaching.

This year’s #KerryMHWFest will run from October 9-16. It is held annually to highlight World Mental Health Day on October 10.

Organised by an interagency steering group, the key focus of the Kerry Mental Health and Wellbeing Fest is to promote mental health and wellbeing in Kerry through a fun and interactive programme of events.

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The Chair of the Steering Committee, Donagh Hennebry, said: “The Kerry Mental Health and Wellbeing Fest aims to create awareness of, and schedule events that empower people to engage with the Five Ways to Wellbeing – Connect | Give | Take Notice | Keep Learning | Be Active – as well as raising awareness of the available supports and services in the county.

“The Fest has a wide reach across Kerry and we want to continue to build on its success in 2021. But we can’t do this without you! We are inviting anyone who is interested in helping us achieve our goal, by hosting an event/s during #KerryMHWFest, to register online as soon as possible.”

To register your interest to host an event for the 2021 Kerry Mental Health and Wellbeing Fest, visit https://www.healthykerry.ie/index.php/hw-fest/ before close of business on Friday, June 25.

The organising committee is a collaboration between Connecting for Life Kerry, Healthy Kerry, Kerry County Council, the HSE, NEWKD, SKDP, Kerry Mental Health Association, Jigsaw Kerry, Munster Technological University/Kerry, and Kerry Volunteer Centre.

For more information about registration, promotion, or the Fest in general, please contact the interagency steering group at: kerrymhwfest20@gmail.com.