Turn2Me, a National Mental Health Charity, has stated that free mental health services are absolutely vital, now more than ever, with the rising costs of living. The charity stated an increased number of users reported feeling anxious about the rising cost of living, and that many users said the free Turn2Me mental health services have been a ‘lifeline’ to them during the pandemic.
Turn2Me stated the past two years have taken a toll on the nation’s mental health, with lockdowns, restricted social engagements, job insecurities and education disruptions. When lockdown measures eased, people then had to deal with the stresses of preparing for international conflicts, from the Russian attacks on Ukraine. The added stress of the rising cost of living has caused many people to feel anxious about the future.
Turn2Me offers free mental health services, including free counselling sessions, free support groups and a free ‘Thought Catcher’ mood diary. The charity said its services have been in huge demand since the pandemic began. At the height of the pandemic, demand for its services increased by 386%.
“Economic changes cause heightened anxieties,” Fiona O’Malley, CEO of Turn2Me, said, “The rising cost of living is definitely something our users are concerned about. We are delighted to be able to offer free professional mental health services, including free one-to-one counselling, free support groups and a free ‘Thought Catcher’ mood diary. These free mental health services are absolutely vital, now more than ever, with the rising costs of living. The rising costs of living is very stressful, and something that impacts people in a real and tangible way. I would encourage anyone who is feeling anxious and needs mental health support to avail of Turn2Me’s free services, which run 365 days a year.”
Turn2Me is encouraging anyone who is feeling anxious, depressed, isolated or overwhelmed to avail of its free mental health services on Turn2Me.ie. The charity also emphasised that two of its services, the Support Groups and the ‘Thought Catcher’ have no waiting lists and are available to use immediately.
About Turn2Me:
Turn2Me was founded in 2009 stemming from the very personal experiences of Oisin and Diarmuid Scollard, who lost their brother, Cormac to suicide in 2003. In 2013, Turn2Me gained the support of the HSE National Office for Suicide Prevention to deliver counselling online. In 2019, Turn2Me joined forces with ReachOut Ireland to create a space for young people to find information to support their mental health online. As of September 2021, Turn2Me offers adult counselling and peer support services to adults and young people aged 12 plus. It also offers group support services for teenagers, young people and adults.
