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Bipolar disorder Bipolar disorder Bipolar disorder Bipolar disorder Information, support and Tips on how to cope. What is Bipolar Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition characterized by extreme mood swings between periods of mania and depression. People with bipolar disorder may experience intense highs, increased energy, and impulsivity during manic episodes, followed by periods of deep sadness, low energy, and hopelessness during depressive episodes. The mood shifts can significantly impact a person's daily life and functioning. Rapid cycling bipolar Bipolar with mixed features Bipolar with seasonal pattern Bipolar 1 Bipolar 2 Cyclothymia Types Rapid cycling in bipolar disorder means experiencing four or more mood swings (manic, hypomanic, depressive, or mixed) in a year. It can make treatment more challenging and impact daily life, requiring adjustments to medications and therapy. Not everyone with bipolar disorder rapid cycles Rapid cycling Bipolar with mixed features Bipolar with mixed features means feeling both manic and depressed at the same time. This is sometimes called mixed bipolar state or mixed affective bipolar. Bipolar 1 Bipolar I is a mood disorder where individuals have at least one intense manic episode, characterized by elevated or irritable mood and increased energy. Depressive episodes may also occur, Cyclothymic Cyclothymic Disorder, or cyclothymia, is a milder form of bipolar disorder. It involves recurring periods of hypomanic symptoms (less severe than full-blown mania) and depressive symptoms that do not meet the criteria for a major depressive episode. Individuals with cyclothymia may experience mood swings, but the symptoms are less intense and do not typically interfere significantly with daily functioning. It's a chronic condition that lasts for at least two years (one year in children and adolescents). Cyclothymic Disorder is considered a subtype within the broader category of bipolar and related disorders. Cyclothymia can be a difficult diagnosis to receive. You may feel as though someone is saying your symptoms are 'not serious enough', but this isn't the case. Cyclothymia can seriously impact your life. And mental health is a spectrum that covers lots of different experiences. Bipolar with seasonal pattern Bipolar disorder with seasonal pattern means that mood swings (like feeling high or low) follow a seasonal cycle. For some, depression may happen more in winter, and mania or high energy may occur in spring or summer. Bipolar II is a mood disorder marked by cycles of depression and hypomania. Hypomania is a less severe form of mania, involving elevated mood and increased energy. Individuals with Bipolar II don't experience full-blown mania but still have significant mood shifts. Bipolar 2 Bipolar disorder with seasonal pattern means that mood swings (like feeling high or low) follow a seasonal cycle. For some, depression may happen more in winter, and mania or high energy may occur in spring or summer. Bipolar 2 You are not alone Learning to cope Dealing with bipolar disorder can be tough, especially without clear coping strategies. Finding effective ways to manage is Important for a better life. It's important to understand bipolar disorder personally, and professionals suggest these tips. While it might be challenging to find the right approach, staying open-minded and resilient can make a big difference. Monitor your mood You might find it helps to keep track of your moods over a period of time. You could try noting down mood patterns in a diary or on your phone. Understanding your triggers You might find it helps to understand what can trigger changes in your mood. Triggers are different for different people. Some examples include: Feeling overwhelmed or busy Stressful periods Significant life events, like weddings, having a child or losing a loved one Periods of change or uncertainty Lack of sleep Other physical or mental health issues Changes or problems with your treatment for bipolar disorder It can help to recognise these patterns. Then you can take action to avoid the trigger or minimise its impact. Learn your warning signs You may start to notice a pattern to how you feel before an episode. This could be changes in your: Sleeping pattern Eating patterns or appetite Behaviour Being aware that you're about to have a change in mood can help you make sure that: You have support systems in place You can focus on looking after yourself You're able to share warning signs with family and friends who can help you Stick to a routine Having a routine can help you feel calmer if your mood is high, motivated if your mood is low, and generally more stable. Your routine could include: Day-to-day activities, such as the time you eat meals and go to sleep. Making time for relaxation , mindfulness , hobbies and social plans. Taking any medication at the same time each day. This can also help you manage side effects and make sure there's a consistent level in your system. Mange stress Stress can trigger mood episodes . There are lots of things you can try which might help you to: Avoid stress Manage stress Look after yourself when you feel stressed Look after your physical health Try to get enough sleep. Disturbed sleep can be both a trigger and a symptom of episodes. Getting enough sleep can help you keep your mood stable or shorten an episode. Eat a healthy diet Eating a balanced and nutritious diet can help you feel well, think clearly and calm your mood. Exercise regularly Gentle exercise, like yoga or swimming, can help you relax and manage stress. Regular exercise can help by: Using up energy when you're feeling high Releasing endorphins – the 'feel-good' chemicals in the brain – when you're feeling low Build a support network Building a support network could help to manage your mood. This might include friends, family or other people in your life who you trust and can talk to. The kind of support they can offer includes: Being able to recognise signs that you may be experiencing a mood episode . Helping you look after yourself by keeping a routine or a healthy diet. Listening and offering their understanding. Helping you reflect on and remember what happened during a manic episode. Helping you plan for a crisis . Try to tell those around you what you find helpful and what you don't find helpful. For example, you can agree together what things you'd like their help with and what you would like to manage by yourself. Information from Bipolar UK Treatment Options Managing bipolar disorder involves reducing the intensity and frequency of depressive and manic episodes. Untreated episodes can endure for 3 to 6 months, with depressive episodes typically lasting between 6 to 12 months. With effective intervention, improvements are often noticeable within approximately 3 months. Various treatment approaches exist, including medications, psychological therapies, and lifestyle adjustments like dietary enhancements and better sleep habits. Your GP and psychiatrist will discuss these options with you, and many individuals with bipolar disorder can undergo treatment without requiring hospitalization. In severe cases or when governed by the Mental Health Act, hospitalization may be necessary due to the risk of self-harm or harm to others. A day hospital might be considered in certain situations, allowing for treatment during the day with the flexibility to return home at night. Therapy Options This may include: psychoeducation – to find out more about bipolar disorder cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) family therapy supportive psychotherapy (counselling) trauma informed psychotherapy Talking with a trained therapist is an important part of treatment for bipolar disorder. A therapist can help you deal with depression. They can also give you advice on how to improve relationships and address any unresolved trauma or emotional distress. Psychological treatment usually consists of around 16 sessions. Each session lasts an hour and takes place over a period of 6 to 9 months. Lifestyle Getting regular exercise Planning activities you enjoy that give you a sense of achievement Improving your diet Getting more sleep You can get lifestyle advice from your psychologist or community mental health team. Learning to recognise triggers You can learn to recognise the warning signs of an episode of mania or depression. Someone close to you may be able to help you identify your early signs of relapse from your history. For example, a mental health professional, peer support worker, family member or friend. Wellness Recovery Action Plans (WRAP) are very useful. Your local community mental health team can advise you on how to develop this plan. This will not prevent the episode from happening, but it will allow you to get help in time. This may mean making some changes to your treatment. Your GP or specialist can talk to you about this. -HSE Support Support can mean talking with a friend, family member, teacher, GP or Mental health services. Don't suffer in silence there are people there to listen. Bipolar UK St Patricks Mental health services Aware Ireland Ireland resources Other Countries Information from this website has come from the NHS, HSE and bipolar Uk.

If you or someone you know is in an abusive situation you're not alone. There is help available. Abuse and getting help If you or some you know is experiencing abuse or has in the past there is help available. You're not alone. Domestic abuse Domestic abuse and coercive control is a persistent and deliberate pattern of behaviour by an abuser over a prolonged period of time designed to achieve obedience and create fear. It may include coercion, threats, stalking, intimidation, isolation, degradation and control. It may also include physical and/or sexual violence. Domestic abuse and coercive control are all about making a persons world smaller – trapping them, restricting them independence and freedom. A controlling partner may shut out their friends and family, control their movements, micro-manage what she eats or wears, restrict their access to money – all the time chipping away at their confidence and destroying their self-respect. It is not their imagination. It is not their fault. It is not acceptable. Lire la suite Getting help If you’re trying to decide whether to stay or leave, you may be feeling confused, uncertain, frightened, and torn. Maybe you’re still hoping that your situation will change or you’re afraid of how your partner will react if he discovers that you’re trying to leave. One moment, you may desperately want to get away, and the next, you may want to hang on to the relationship. Maybe you even blame yourself for the abuse or feel weak and embarrassed because you’ve stuck around in spite of it. Don’t be trapped by confusion, guilt, or self-blame. The only thing that matters is your safety. If you are being abused, remember: You are not to blame for being battered or mistreated. You are not the cause of your partner’s abusive behavior. You deserve to be treated with respect. You deserve a safe and happy life. Your children deserve a safe and happy life. You are not alone. There are people waiting to help. There are supports available to help keep you safe. Your GP can help by referring you to appropriate supports and services in your local area. If you are in immediate danger, contact the Gardaí or call 999. You can also contact the Women’s Aid national helpline on 1800 341 900. Your local Citizens Information Centre can give you advice on your rights. They will also tell you about the supports and services available in your local area. Sexual assault or rape If you need to talk to someone in confidence about sexual assault or rape, the Rape Crisis Centre (1800 77 88 88 ) can help. Domestic violence Women’s Aid can help you if you are experiencing domestic violence. They give advice on how you can help yourself and others. You can also contact them 24 hours-a-day on 1800 341 900 . Men's Aid Ireland is a service for men who are experiencing domestic violence. You can call them on 01 554 3811 or email hello@mensaid.ie . Child Abuse Child abuse can be categorised into four different types: neglect, emotional abuse, physical abuse and sexual abuse. A child may be subjected to one or more forms of abuse at any given time. Abuse and neglect can occur within the family, in the community or in an institutional setting. The abuser may be someone known to the child or a stranger, and can be an adult, or another child. In a situation where abuse is alleged to have been carried out by another child, you should consider it a child welfare and protection issue for both children and you should follow child protection procedures for both the victim and the alleged abuser. The important factor in deciding whether the behaviour is abuse or neglect is the impact of that behaviour on the child rather than the intention of the parent/carer. Signs of Child Abuse Child abuse can be categorised into four different types: neglect, emotional abuse, physical abuse and sexual abuse. A child may be subjected to one or more forms of abuse at any given time. Abuse and neglect can occur within the family, in the community or in an institutional setting. The abuser may be someone known to the child or a stranger, and can be an adult, or another child. In a situation where abuse is alleged to have been carried out by another child, you should consider it a child welfare and protection issue for both children and you should follow child protection procedures for both the victim and the alleged abuser. The important factor in deciding whether the behaviour is abuse or neglect is the impact of that behaviour on the child rather than the intention of the parent/carer. Obtenir de l'aide pour la maltraitance des enfants Enfants et jeunes Childline est un service de soutien confidentiel pour les enfants et les jeunes. Ils prennent des appels concernant un large éventail de difficultés, y compris la maltraitance. Vous pouvez les contacter 24 heures sur 24 au 1800 66 66 66 . Vous pouvez également envoyer "Parler" par SMS à 50101 . Vous pouvez également contacter tusla https://www.tusla.ie/services/child-protection-welfare/definitions-of-child-abuse/ Resources in different countries Harassment It can take many forms such as: rude gestures touching following or watching damage to property and/or vehicles name calling and/or taunting phone calls and voicemails notes and/or letters emails and/or text messages rubbish being thrown on your property loud noise or music from neighbours Tweets, Facebook comments, YouTube videos; and other online posts If you are a victim of harassment you may feel: That nobody is taking it seriously, and that something terrible will have to happen before you are really believed That you have no option but to move out of your neighbourhood or leave your workplace Afraid to answer your phone or look at your text messages Afraid to go away from your home in case damage is done while you are away Anxious any time you leave your home Worried about the effects on your children Afraid that if you report each incident the Police will think you are a nuisance or will not believe you Concerned that if you report the harassment, the situation may get worse. Harassment is an unwanted pattern of behaviour that can leave you feeling intimidated, scared , agacé et/ou humilié. Lire la suite Conservez une trace écrite de chaque incident. Inscrivez l'heure et le lieu de l'incident, avec autant de détails que possible, et notez toute personne qui a vu ce qui s'est passé et qui peut être témoin de tout procédure pénale. Signalez le crime à la Gardaí. Le harcèlement est un crime. Il est important que vous le signaliez et que vous fassiez une déclaration à la Gardaí sur ce qui se passe. Chaque incident doit être signalé à la Gardaí. Si un incident est grave, il doit être signalé immédiatement à la Gardaí. Envisagez la médiation. Surtout s'il s'agit de harcèlement dans votre quartier, cette approche non conflictuelle peut vous offrir le meilleur résultat. La médiation est un service confidentiel qui offre une méthode alternative aux parties impliquées dans un litige pour résoudre leurs problèmes et parvenir à un accord acceptable pour les deux parties. Cependant, la médiation n'est pas toujours possible ou conseillé dans certaines situations. Si vous pensez que la médiation pourrait être une option pour votre situation, veuillez contacter la ligne d'assistance aux victimes d'actes criminels pour plus d'informations. Conservez tous les textes, messages vocaux, e-mails ou captures d'écran des commentaires sur les réseaux sociaux, car ils seront utiles dans toute enquête qui pourrait avoir lieu. Contactez votre fournisseur de services téléphoniques pour obtenir des conseils si le harcèlement est par téléphone. Chaque fournisseur a une politique pour traiter le problème. Il peut être possible de bloquer les communications entrantes indésirables. Si le harcèlement est via médias sociaux, vous pouvez le signaler à l'organisation de médias sociaux concernée. Il est possible d'empêcher une personne d'entrer en contact avec vous sur la plupart des sites de médias sociaux. Envisagez d'installer un appareil photo sur votre propriété pour fournir des preuves de harcèlement et comme moyen de dissuasion. Des caméras à bas prix sont maintenant disponibles. Évitez d'être entraîné dans un différend. Ne répondez pas ou ne ripostez pas. Si vous le faites, il est moins probable qu'une affaire aboutisse contre la personne qui vous harcèle. Si le harcèlement se produit dans une zone d'habitation de l'autorité publique, assurez-vous de le signaler au comté ou au conseil municipal. Si le harcèlement a lieu dans votre workplace vous devez le signaler à votre employeur. Parlez de vos sentiments avec quelqu'un en qui vous pouvez avoir confiance – un membre de la famille, un ami, un collègue. Passer par cette expérience est très difficile et il est important d'avoir support. Renseignez-vous sur les mesures de sécurité qui peuvent être prises pour prévenir le harcèlement. Vous pouvez demander conseil à a Garda Crime Prevention Officer. Votre station Garda locale peut vous fournir ses coordonnées. Pour plus d'informations sur ce que vous pouvez faire, ou si vous souhaitez discuter de votre expérience en tant que victime de harcèlement, vous pouvez contacter gratuitement la Crime Victims Helpline au 116 006. Ce que vous pouvez faire si vous êtes harcelé Plus d'information Si vous avez besoin de plus d'informations ou si vous venez du Royaume-Uni, voici quelques liens qui peuvent vous aider. Services aux victimes de la Garda Services d'assistance de la police britannique Violence domestique Royaume-Uni aide aux femmes royaume-uni Refuge Mind Royaume-Uni Ligne de conseils pour hommes ligne de soutien Informations aux citoyens Royaume-Uni Police britannique Childline Royaume-Uni L' espoir que les ressources et informations du projet

Suicidal thoughts If you are having thoughts of suicide you're not alone. They can be scary and they can give you many other unwanted feelings and thoughts. Remember you don't have to act on these thoughts. You are so loved and worth so much. There is help Available. Symptoms Suicide warning signs or suicidal thoughts include: Talking about suicide — for example, making statements such as "I'm going to kill myself," "I wish I were dead" or "I wish I hadn't been born" Getting the means to take your own life, such as buying a gun or stockpiling pills Withdrawing from social contact and wanting to be left alone Having mood swings, such as being emotionally high one day and deeply discouraged the next Being preoccupied with death, dying or violence Feeling trapped or hopeless about a situation Increasing use of alcohol or drugs Changing normal routine, including eating or sleeping patterns Doing risky or self-destructive things, such as using drugs or driving recklessly Giving away belongings or getting affairs in order when there's no other logical explanation for doing this Saying goodbye to people as if they won't be seen again Developing personality changes or being severely anxious or agitated, particularly when experiencing some of the warning signs listed above Warning signs aren't always obvious, and they may vary from person to person. Some people make their intentions clear, while others keep suicidal thoughts and feelings secret. Getting help for suicidal thoughts Talking to someone about how you are feeling can help. Once you start talking it gets better. You can talk to a family, friend, teacher, anyone who you trust. Go to your doctor. They can get different resources for you and run tests to find out what's going on. Book an appointment to see a therapist. If you feel you cant keep yourself safe you can call the police or ambulance or you can go to your nearest hospital. I know it can be frightening to do this but these people want to help you and you're NOT wasting anyone's time. Everyone needs help from time to time. Call a helpline. If you or someone you know is in crisis or having a medical emergency call your country's emergency number 999, 112, 911, 000 Helplines IE - Call 1800 247 247, or text HELLO to 50808 UK - Call 116 123 or text HELLO to 85258 USA - Call 988 or text HOME to 741 741 more resources and helplines here Making a safety plan can really help when the thoughts get too much. It can distract and ground you. It also helps to remind you of the good things in life. You can download this safety plan template and create your own. When you feel unsafe you can read the safety plan and follow and safety tips and distractions you have. If the safety plan doesn't help its time to call an ambulance or go to hospital. Mental health is just as important as physical health. Its worth getting help for. If someone you know is thinking of suicide the best thing you can do is listen and not judge. It can be hard to hear that someone you love is feeling like this but there is options for you too if you're upset or overwhelmed. Remember if you feel that you need to get them help by teling someone else thats okay. They might not understand or be upset but their safety matters.

Information on depression and how to cope. Depression Depression is more than an unhappy feeling for feeling fed up for a few days its much more than that. Everyone can feel sad from time to time but depression is constant and doesn't go away easily and someone might not know why they are depressed. Its not a sign of weakness or something you can just snap out of. With the right treatment Some with depression can make a full recovery. Symptoms continuous low mood or sadness feeling hopeless and helpless having low self-esteem feeling tearful feeling worthless or guilt-ridden feeling irritable and intolerant of others having no motivation or interest in things finding it difficult to make decisions not getting any enjoyment out of life irritable mood feeling anxious or worried having suicidal thoughts or thoughts of harming yourself. moving or speaking slower than usual changes in appetite or weight (usually decreased, but sometimes increased) constipation unexplained aches and pains lack of energy low sex drive (loss of libido) changes to your menstrual cycle disturbed sleep – difficulty falling asleep, waking up early or sleeping more than usual not doing well at work avoiding contact with friends and taking part in fewer social activities neglecting your hobbies and interests having difficulties in your home and family life. If you or someone you know is unsafe or having a medical emergency call your country's emergency number - 999, 911, 112, 111. For more information and resources go to our helpline page. Remember there will always be someone there to listen. View More Information on this page is from the HSE and NHS website. Causes bereavement divorce illness redundancy job or money worries Biological - Biological theories of depression place blame on the brain and the malfunctioning of some of the chemicals that comprise it. Psychological - The psychological theories of depression focus mostly on the experience of loss. Stressful events Personality Family history Giving birth Loneliness Alcohol and drugs Illness Read more Treatment for depression can involve a combination of: self-help talking therapies medicines Exercise Exercise can help depression and it's one of the main treatments for mild depression. Antidepressants Antidepressants are tablets that treat the symptoms of depression. There are almost 30 different types of antidepressant. Your doctor will prescribe these. Combination therapy Your GP may recommend that you take a course of antidepressants plus talking therapy. For moderate to severe depression, an antidepressant and CBT usually works better than one treatment. Mental health teams You may be referred to a mental health team. They could include psychologists, psychiatrists, specialist nurses and occupational therapists. These teams often provide intensive specialist talking treatments as well as prescribed medication. Talking treatments Your doctor may refer you to talking therapy for moderate to severe depression. Read more

About the Hope project T heHopeProject.ie is a mental health resource website created by Charlotte McDonnell, a teenager from Tipperary, Ireland. The website offers support and information for those struggling with mental health issues in Ireland, with an emphasis on providing hope and encouragement. The website features articles on a range of mental health topics, incl uding depression, anxiety, and suicide prevention. These articles aim to provide information and practical advice on managing mental health issues. The website also offers a directory of mental health support services available in Ireland, including phone and online support services. The website's message of hope and encouragement can be especially beneficial for young people who may be experiencing mental health challenges for the first time. Overall, TheHopeProject.ie is a valuable resource for those seeking support and guidance on mental health issues in Ireland. The website's emphasis on hope and the availability of resources and information can be a lifeline for anyone struggling with their mental health. In 2020 the Hope project was created on Instagram. It started off as just sharing quotes, helpline numbers for Ireland and spreading awareness on mental health and suicide. I came up with the idea due to my own struggles with mental health and the system in Ireland. I wanted people to know they aren't alone and there's support there . In January 2022 I created the hope project website, I was still struggling with my mental health but I wanted a reason to keep going so I really pushed myself and made the hope project bigger and better. I got in contact with TDs, HSE and many other people to tell them a change needs to be made to the mental health system in Ireland as the current system is not working and adolescents are being left alone when they need these services. The website was created with the idea to have a safe place online for people worldwide to go to when they may be struggling. The project then went onto TikTok. From TikTok the hope project gained a bigger following. In the summer of 2022 I opened a shop to sell items to raise money for suicide prevention posters, website upgrades, future events etc. The Hope project hoodie was the first item to be created. The idea of it was that if someone was wearing the hoodie and other people who may be struggling saw it, they may think that it does get better and take it as a sign to keep going. The hope project now runs itself, I do update the website once or twice a month and I'm always posting on the Instagram and TikTok. I couldn't have created the project without the support from my friends, family and especially the followers of the hope project. I hope to help many more people in the future with the hope project and the message will always stay the same. - HOPE - Hold On, Pain Ends. You will get through every hard day. The pain you may be feeling now wont last forever. Stay strong. I'm proud of you all. - Charlotte Mac

Having suicidal thoughts can be frightening but remeber you are not alone, with the right support you will get through this. The hope project is here for you. Suicidal Thoughts If you are having thoughts of suicide you're not alone. They can be scary and they can give you many other unwanted feelings and thoughts. Remember you don't have to act on these thoughts. You are so loved and worth so much. What are suicidal thoughts? Feeling suicidal can range from thinking about dying to planning how to do it. It might make you feel scared or overwhelmed, but it's important to know you're not alone. Many people go through these thoughts at some point in their lives. People experience suicidal feelings differently. You might feel overwhelmed by tough emotions, feeling like you can't handle them. It might not be so much about wanting to die, but feeling like you can't keep living the way you are. These feelings can grow gradually or fluctuate from one moment to the next. It's normal to feel confused about why you're feeling this way. These thoughts aren't permanent, You will feel okay again, with the right support . When you're in the grip of suicidal feelings, it can be really tough. It might seem like there's no way out, like acting on those feelings is the only option, or that nothing can make the pain go away. But remember, those feelings, though intense, can pass. In this moment, there are things you can try. Even if it feels like nothing will make a difference, give these strategies a chance. You might feel differently once you've given them a shot. Instead of fixating on the future, focus on getting through this moment or day. You've likely experienced similar feelings before, and they've eventually faded. Remind yourself that this pain is temporary; it will likely ease with time. Try changing your immediate thoughts by doing something different or shifting your focus. It doesn't have to be a big change—small steps can help. Don’t make a decision today You don’t need to act on your thoughts right now. You can try to focus on just getting through now, or today, and not the rest of your life. You may have had these thoughts before, but you feel less able to cope today. You might find that you are more able to cope in a few days. Other ways to cope Talk to someone about how you are feeling - This could be a Family Member, Teacher, Friend, Counsellor or a Hotline. If you are finding it hard to talk about what you’re going through, you can try starting with: “Lately, I’ve been feeling…” “I think it started when…” “I’ve been feeling this for a while…” or “I’m thinking about…” Write about your feelings, Writing down how you are feeling can really help. Writing in a journal or on a piece of paper and then destroying that paper can give you a sense of relief. Take things a little at a time. Set out to get through the next day, the next week or month, perhaps the next hour or even less. Tell yourself: "I've got through so far, I can get through the next hour". Coping with these thoughts What you May think or feel hopeless, like there is no point in living tearful and overwhelmed by negative thoughts unbearable pain that you can't imagine ending useless, not wanted or not needed by others desperate, as if you have no other choice like everyone would be better off without you cut off from your body or physically numb fascinated by death. What you may experience poor sleep, including waking up earlier than you want to a change in appetite, weight gain or loss no desire to take care of yourself, for example neglecting your physical appearance wanting to avoid others making a will or giving away possessions struggling to communicate self-loathing and low self-esteem urges to self-harm . Mind.org Distractions Do something else, and focus your attention fully on what you're doing, e.g. • Gardening Household chores Physical exercise - walk, run, cycle, dance. Tapping (Emotional Freedom Technique) Reading - magazine, self help book Television Seek out a supportive discussion forum on the internet • Learn something new on the internet • Go to the park, the beach - pay attention to nature. Visit someone Music Play with a pet. DIY Feed the birds Sudoku or crossword Do something creative: painting, writing, knitting, play a musical instrument, make a collage, bake a cake, cook a meal, arrange some flowers, make a website or blog. Safety Plan Having a safety plan while in a moment of crisis can be extremely helpful. You can make your own on websites and apps such as: Canva Word Phonto Or you can download some online. Samaritans Getselfhelp SpunOut.ie Everylifematters Resources and helplines Ireland Samaritans - Call 116123 or email Jo@samaritans.ie . Pieta House - Call 1800 247 247 or Text HELP to 51444 Text about it - Text HELLO to 50808 Childline - For people up to the age of 18 Freephone 1800 66 66 66 Text 50101 Live chat at www.childline.ie Go to your GP if you are struggling. In an emergency go to your local hospital or call 999 and ask for Ambulance or Gardi For other Countries please go to our resources and helplines page. Resources If you think that its the end remember your life is just beginning. UK Samaritans - Call 116123 Email jo@samaritans.org Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) Call 0800 58 58 58 – 5pm to midnight every day Visit the webchat page Papyrus – prevention of young suicide HOPELINE247 Call 0800 068 41 41 Text 07860 039967 Email pat@papyrus-uk.org Childline – for children and young people under 19 Call 0800 1111 SOS Silence of Suicide – for everyone Call 0300 1020 505 – 4pm to midnight every day Email support@sossilenceofsuicide.org Shout Crisis Text Line – for everyone Text "SHOUT" to 85258 YoungMinds Crisis Messenger – for people under 19 Text "YM" to 85258 Go to your GP if you are struggling. If you or someone you know is in Crisis call 999 and ask for Ambulance or Police, or go to your nearest hospital. You will get through this, You are not alone.

Supporting others Life can be tough for everyone, especially for those dealing with mental health problems. This page is here to show you how to help someone who might be having a hard time, whether they're a friend, family, someone from school, or even a stranger. Sometimes, saying or doing the right thing can make a big difference. What are the signs that someone is struggling? Sometimes there is small signs that someone is struggling but other times there may be something that they could say or do that will set off alarm bells. Its important to be informed on what to look out for. Changes in Behavior: Look for significant changes in their behavior, such as social withdrawal, increased irritability, mood swings, or unexplained agitation. Emotional Distress: Frequent and intense feelings of sadness, hopelessness, anxiety, or anger that seem overwhelming. Changes in Sleep Patterns: Insomnia or excessive sleeping can be indicators of mental health issues. Appetite and Weight Changes: A noticeable increase or decrease in appetite and weight can be signs of emotional distress. Difficulty Concentrating: Struggling to focus, make decisions, or remember things can be a sign of mental health challenges. Lack of Interest: Losing interest in activities they used to enjoy, such as hobbies, work, or socializing. Physical Symptoms: Unexplained physical symptoms like headaches, stomachaches, or fatigue may be related to mental health. Neglecting Personal Care: A significant decline in personal hygiene or self-care. Substance Abuse: An increase in alcohol or drug use as a coping mechanism. Isolation: Avoiding social interactions or cutting off contact with friends and family. Extreme Mood Swings: Severe and sudden shifts in mood that are not typical for the person. Expressions of Hopelessness: Statements or behaviors that suggest they feel trapped, worthless, or that life isn't worth living. How to help someone that is struggling. This is a paragraph. Use this area to add any information you want to share with users. Just click "Edit Text" or double click here to change the text and make it your own. You can also adjust the paragraph's font, size and color so it fits your website’s theme. This is a great place to tell users a story about your website and let them know more about what you offer. You may want to share information about your company's background, your team, or the services you provide. Be sure to keep the tone and voice consistent throughout the site so users become familiar with your brand. Contact I'm always looking for new and exciting opportunities. Let's connect. info@mysite.com 123-456-7890

The Hope Project is an Online Mental health forum where people all over the world can get information, support, advice and so much more. - thehopeproject Welcome to HOPE HOPE - Hold On, Pain Ends About Us Not all Storms come to disrupt your life, some come to clear your path.... Quote of the month Information Anxiety Depression Eating Disorders Self Harm Panic Attacks Suicidal thoughts Your Stories "I've been suffering from mental health issues for about 3 years and been struggling with self harm & suicidal thoughts for most of that time. one day last year i had just had enough and i’d completely given up & lost hope that anything would get better, that night i made an attempt on my life which then landed me in hospital requiring treatment. for anyone considering taking their lives please give life another shot, i know things are unimaginably tough for you right now but things can improve with time and the right help. you matter, you’re strong and the world is a better place with you in it. keep fighting <3" Read More

Resources and helplines in Ireland Resources and Helplines in Ireland Nationally Pieta house Pieta provides free, therapeutic approach to people who are in suicidal distress, engage in self-harm, or bereaved by suicide, 24/7. Call 1800 247 247, Text HELP to 51444. Read More Bodywhys Bodywhys, the Eating Disorders Association of Ireland, is the national voluntary organisation supporting people affected by eating disorders Call 012107906 email alex@bodywhys.ie Read More Samaritans They are there , day or night, for anyone who’s struggling to cope, who needs someone to listen without judgement or pressure. Call 116 123 Email jo@samaritans.ie Read More Aware Supporting Your Mental Health. Aware undertakes to create a society where people affected by stress, depression, bipolar disorder and mood related conditions are understood, supported, free from stigma, and are encouraged to access appropriate therapies. Freephone: 1800 80 48 48 Read More Childline Childline is open every day and is for all children and young people in Ireland up to and including the age of 18. Call 1800 66 66 66 Read More Jigsaw Jigsaw offer expert mental health advice and support, online and in person, to young people across Ireland, aged 12 - 25 years-old. Read More 999/112 Call 999/112 in an emergency or if yours or someone else's life is at risk. National services Turn2Me They offer self-help, peer support and professional support through an online platform for those who are experiencing poor mental health. More Info Grow Grow Mental Health is a charity that provides free, friendly community based, peer support groups for anyone who is experiencing a mental health issue. More Info Shine Supporting people effected by mental ill health and their families through information and education. More Info ParentLine Parentline is a national, confidential helpline that offers parents support, information and guidance on all aspects of being a parent and any parenting issues. More Info Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy List of registered Counsellors & Psychotherapists practicing in Ireland More Info Womens Aid Confidential information, support and understanding to women who are being abused by current or former boyfriends, partners or husbands. More Info The Dublin Rape Crisis Centre For people who have experienced sexual assult, rape or childhood sexual abuse. More Info Aoibhneas Women and Children’s Refuge Domestic abuse support for women and children. 24-hour support, information and referral services, access to safe accommodation – for women and children forced to leave their home due to domestic abuse. More Info LGBT Ireland National support service for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender people and their families and friends. More Info If you are struggling with your mental health go to your GP so they can direct you to the best services in your area. If you or someone you know is in Crisis go to the emergency department or call 112

ADHD - Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a behavioural disorder that impacts people. Individuals with ADHD may appear restless, have difficulty concentrating, and may act on impulse. ADHD symptoms are often seen at a young age and may become more obvious as a child's surroundings change, such as starting school. The majority of instances are diagnosed while children are under the age of 12, however it can be diagnosed later in life. ADHD is sometimes misdiagnosed as a youngster and only discovered as an adult. ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. It is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects the brain's ability to control attention, impulses, and behavior. People with ADHD may have difficulty focusing on tasks, organizing themselves, and completing tasks. They may also be hyperactive and impulsive, finding it difficult to sit still or control their actions. ADHD can affect people of all ages, and while it is more common in children, it can also affect adults. The exact cause of ADHD is not known, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. There is no cure for ADHD, but it can be managed with medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes. With the right treatment, people with ADHD can lead fulfilling and successful lives. Other issues, including as sleep and anxiety difficulties, may occur in people with ADHD. Parents of ADHD children Caring for a child with ADHD can be difficult, but it's vital to realise that they can't control their behaviour. Certain daily activities may be more challenging for you and your kid, such as: how to persuade your child to sleep at night getting ready for school on time, listening to and following directions, being organised for social events, and shopping. Adults with ADHD Adults with ADHD may find they have problems with: organisation and time management following instructions focusing and completing tasks coping with stress feeling restless or impatient impulsiveness and risk taking Some adults may also have issues with relationships or social interaction. Children with ADHD Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) can pose challenges for children in various aspects of life, including school, social interactions, and self-regulation. Here are some common symptoms of ADHD in children: Inattention: Children with ADHD may have difficulty paying attention, following instructions, and completing tasks. They may also struggle to organize and prioritize their activities and often appear forgetful or absent-minded. Hyperactivity: Children with ADHD may exhibit excessive restlessness and fidgeting, often appearing as if they are constantly on the go. They may have difficulty sitting still, waiting their turn, or playing quietly. Impulsivity: Children with ADHD may act without thinking and have difficulty controlling their impulses. They may interrupt others, blurt out answers, and have difficulty waiting their turn. Forgetfulness: Children with ADHD may forget to do tasks or may lose things frequently. Difficulty with Executive Functioning: This includes difficulty with starting tasks, planning, organizing, and completing tasks. It is essential to note that every child with ADHD may exhibit a different combination of symptoms, and these symptoms may vary in severity. If you suspect that your child may have ADHD, it is recommended to seek professional evaluation and treatment. However, there are several strategies that can help children cope with ADHD: Establish a Routine: Children with ADHD tend to benefit from having a structured routine, as it can help them manage their time and stay focused. Set a regular schedule for daily activities, including waking up, meals, homework, and bedtime. Break Tasks into Smaller Steps: Breaking larger tasks into smaller steps can make them more manageable for children with ADHD. This can help reduce overwhelm and make it easier for them to focus on one task at a time. Use Visual Aids: Visual aids such as pictures, charts, or calendars can help children with ADHD understand and remember tasks and responsibilities. For instance, you can use a whiteboard to list daily tasks or a color-coded calendar to help them keep track of important dates. Provide Positive Reinforcement: Positive reinforcement can encourage good behavior and help children with ADHD stay motivated. Praise and reward their efforts, such as completing a task, staying focused, or following instructions. Encourage Physical Activity: Physical activity can help reduce hyperactivity and improve focus in children with ADHD. Encourage your child to engage in regular physical activities, such as sports, dancing, or yoga. Seek Professional Help: ADHD is a medical condition that requires professional diagnosis and treatment. Seek help from a qualified healthcare professional, such as a pediatrician, psychologist, or psychiatrist, who can provide appropriate treatment options, including medication, therapy, or a combination of both. Support and Empathize: Support your child and show empathy for their struggles. Children with ADHD may experience frustration, anxiety, or low self-esteem. Show them that you understand their challenges and are there to help them cope and succeed. Strategies for coping There are several strategies and techniques that can be helpful for managing ADHD symptoms. Here are some tips: Seek a professional diagnosis: If you suspect you have ADHD, it's important to get a professional diagnosis from a healthcare provider. This can help you understand your symptoms and develop a treatment plan that's tailored to your needs. Medication: Medication can be an effective treatment for ADHD. There are several types of medication available that can help improve concentration, focus, and impulse control. However, it's important to work with a healthcare provider to find the right medication and dosage for you. Behavioral therapy: Behavioral therapy can help you learn coping strategies and develop new habits to manage your symptoms. This can include techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and organizational skills training. Exercise: Regular exercise can help improve concentration and reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity. It can also help reduce stress and improve mood. Sleep hygiene: Getting enough sleep is important for managing ADHD symptoms. Establishing a consistent sleep routine and avoiding stimulating activities before bedtime can help improve sleep quality. Organization: Establishing routines and systems for organizing your home, workspace, and schedule can help reduce distractions and improve productivity. Support: Finding a support group or talking with friends and family can provide emotional support and help you feel less isolated. Remember, everyone with ADHD is different, so it's important to find strategies that work for you. A combination of medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes may be necessary for optimal management of ADHD symptoms More resources Support Ireland: HADD Ireland provides information, support, and advocacy for individuals and families affected by ADHD. Shine offers support for people with ADHD as well as other mental health conditions. UK: ADHD Foundation provides support, advice, and training for people with ADHD, their families, and professionals. ADDISS (The National Attention Deficit Disorder Information and Support Service) provides information and resources about ADHD. America: CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) offers education, advocacy, and support for individuals with ADHD and their families. The Attention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA) provides support, information, and resources for individuals with ADHD. Canada: CADDAC (Centre for ADHD Awareness Canada) provides information, support, and advocacy for individuals with ADHD and their families. ADHD Canada provides information and resources about ADHD, including support groups and workshops.

Information Suicidal Thoughts If you are having thoughts of suicide you're not alone. They can be scary and they can give you many other unwanted feelings and thoughts. Remember you don't have to act on these thoughts. Suicidal thoughts Depression Depression is more than an unhappy feeling for feeling fed up for a few days its much more than that. Depression Self Harm Self harm is when a person causes physical pain to themselves. It is a difficult issue to start talking about and not a lot of people understand why someone may self harm. Self Harm View More "Don't let this darkness fool you, All lights turned off can be turned on." - Noah Kahan

The Hope Team "What is the Hope Team?" The Hope Team is a small group of people who work together to improve the Hope Project. They also raise awareness about mental health and suicide. Right now, the team is new and only operates in Ireland and the UK. But in the future, we hope to have more people involved from all around the world. Join us "Who can be apart of this team?" Anyone Over the age of 15 from Ireland or The UK Can be. "How can I Join?" All you have to do is press the button below and fill out all the requested information. After that someone from the hope project will be in contact. If you have anymore questions email thehopeproject.ie@gmail.com