Galway GAA are launching a new partnership with the HSE to promote mental health and wellbeing.
The ‘West be Well’ campaign is a collaboration between the Community Healthcare West and the GAA’s Connacht Council.
One of the first initiatives of its kind, it promotes timely, safe, evidence-based mental health messages.
The campaign also spotlights local and national mental health supports and services run by the HSE, or other state-funded organisations.
Other actions running as part of West be Well will include mental health and suicide prevention education and training programmes and events.
Galway GAA chairperson, Paul Bellew stated that the campaign builds on the already strong relations they have with the HSE.
“It is an opportunity for both organisations to assist our communities and members by raising awareness of this magnificent resource.”
“Our Galway Health and Wellbeing committee have been very active since its establishment promoting wellness, good health and inclusiveness for our clubs and communities and this resource assists them to assist clubs who may be seeking assistance.”
West be Well will run across a multi-channel digital platform incorporating Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts as well as its recently redesigned website www.westbewell.ie.
Breda Crehan-Roche from the HSE highlighted the fact that the GAA is “active and respected” in communities across the country, and “appreciates the importance of health and wellbeing”.
Michael Geraghty Galway football Chairperson noted the platform’s “abundance” of safe mental health messages.
He also highlighted the directory of supports and services, which makes it an “ideal reference point” for people who need information or help.
Iggy Clarke, Chairperson of Galway GAA’s Health and Wellness committee, said that the campaign builds on the work they have been doing with clubs and communities.
He describes the website as a wonderful resource, featuring detailed sections on health and wellbeing, anxiety and grief as well as a page dedicated to young people and mental health issues.
