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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

If you suffer with anxiety and panic attacks, you,re not alone. There is techniques that can help you cope better and be more in control and also there is instructions on how to help someone having a panic attack. Panic Attacks A panic attack is a sudden episode of intense fear that triggers severe physical reactions when there is no real danger or apparent cause. Panic attacks can be very frightening. When panic attacks occur, you might think you're losing control, having a heart attack or even dying. While they are frightening they are not dangerous. There are things you can to to feel calmer and more in control. Respirazione Se stai respirando velocemente durante un attacco di panico, fare un esercizio di respirazione può alleviare gli altri sintomi. Prova questo: Inspira più lentamente, profondamente e delicatamente che puoi, attraverso il naso. Espira lentamente, profondamente e delicatamente attraverso la bocca. Alcune persone trovano utile contare costantemente da uno a cinque per ogni inspirazione ed espirazione. Chiudi gli occhi e concentrati sul respiro. Tecnica 5,4,3,2,1 Se stai avendo un attacco di panico, la tecnica di messa a terra 5,4,3,2,1 può essere molto utile. Ecco come: Nomina 5 cose che puoi vedere, Nomina 4 cose che puoi sentire, Nomina 3 cose che puoi sentire, Nomina 2 cose che puoi annusare, Nomina 1 cosa che puoi assaggiare. Questa tecnica è per metterti a terra e aiutarti a concentrarti. Quello che stiamo cercando di fare è radicarti e farti sentire più in controllo per affrontare meglio. A volte avere qualcosa nelle tue mani mentre esegui queste tecniche può davvero aiutare. Ad esempio tenere in mano cubetti di ghiaccio o giocare con un giocattolo irrequieto. Ci sono anche alcune app che puoi scaricare che possono aiutarti a calmarti. Radicato Respiro Chiara paura Spazio di testa Diario Daylio Woebot Ad alcune persone piace svolgere attività per concentrare la mente su qualcos'altro. Per esempio: Disegno Colorazione Carta strappata Guardare un film Ascolta la musica ad alto volume Andando a fare una camminata Giocare/passare del tempo con un animale domestico. Chiamare un amico Può essere qualsiasi cosa, se ti aiuta questo è ciò che conta. Fare un piccolo piano su cosa puoi fare quando senti un attacco di panico in arrivo o quando averne uno può essere utile. Un piccolo elenco di cose che puoi fare in quel momento può aiutarti. Aiutare qualcuno che sta avendo un attacco di panico. Può essere spaventoso quando qualcuno che conosci sta avendo un attacco di panico, ma ci sono alcune semplici cose che puoi fare per aiutarlo: Mantieni la calma , mantieni la tua voce calma e non parlare o concentrarti su ciò che sta accadendo loro durante un attacco di panico. Ricorda loro che sono al sicuro e che presto sarà finita. Chiedi loro se hanno bisogno di qualcosa . Qualcuno che ha un attacco di panico potrebbe non essere sempre in grado di dirti di cosa ha bisogno, ma chiedere può aiutare a ricordare loro che non sono soli. Aiutali a respirare. Prova a contare ad alta voce mentre inspiri per 5 secondi ed espiri per 5 secondi. Sostieni il dopo, portali in un posto tranquillo per calmarsi e procuragli dell'acqua se ne hanno bisogno.

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

We provide information and resources for mental health and suicide. You can also message us on the online chat. You're never alone, we are here for you. Carlotta Mac Ciao, mi chiamo Charlotte Mac e ho 16 anni da Tipperary, Irlanda. Ho creato questo sito Web perché ho lottato con la mia salute mentale per molti anni e I so cosa si prova a essere soli e com'è quando la malattia mentale prende tutta la tua vita. Voglio fare la differenza e aiutare le persone. Questo sito è un posto sicuro per chiunque. Ci sono gruppi e informazioni su risorse e servizi per la salute mentale e se tu o qualcuno che conosci sta lottando, ci sono informazioni anche per questo. Puoi anche contattarmi via e-mail o il pulsante "LETS CHAT". Puoi essere te stesso qui e sei così forte e coraggioso. -Amore Charlotte xx

Hope Project News Here you can find all media Interviews, News and events regarding the hope project and so much more. 01/ 03/ 2023 TippFm " We are the forgotten generation when it comes to mental health" "Charlotte is 17 years old from Carrick on Suir. She set up the Hope Project two years ago when she was just 15. The ‘Hope’ part of the group is an abbreviation for ‘Hold on Pain Ends.’ The Project has a community of people from all around the globe. Charlotte was in studio with Fran. Press here to Listen. 14/ 02/ 2023 Irish Examiner "Case study: 'Under-18s are the forgotten generation' Charlotte McDonnell (17) was not surprised at the latest report criticising the Camhs, having faced obstacles during her time with the services in Tipperary." Press here to read full article Photo taken by John D Kelly 03/ 02/ 2023 Tipperary Live " Carrick-on-Suir teenager's HOPE Project campaigns for better mental health services for young people. A Carrick-on-Suir teenager is the founder of an online project promoting mental health awareness and advocating for better mental health services for young people. The Hope Project website was set up by Charlotte McDonnell two years ago when she was 15-years-old Press here to read full article 03/ 11/ 2022 WLRFM "Charlotte Mac is a 17 year-old living in Carrick who joined Damien in studio to discuss her website The Hope Project. She set it up two years ago when she was just 15. The 'Hope' part of the website is an abbreviation for 'Hold On Pain Ends.' The Project has a community of people from all around the globe, including in America and the UK." Press here to listen

You can post your story and something you have gone through and It will be uploaded onto the website so other people can read it and see they arent alone. It is anonymous. Your stories Welcome, this part of the hope project is called "your stories". Here you can submit your own story anonymously and if you choose it will be posted here. You can write about anything from your mental health struggles and feelings, bullying, school stress, something traumatic that happened to you etc. This is a way to talk about something that you are too scared to tell anyone. You can also read other peoples story's because maybe you will relate and wont feel so alone. Whatever your story is we are here to listen and it matters. Please press the link to be taken to where you can submit your story. Visualizza di più Soffro di problemi di salute mentale da circa 3 anni e ho lottato con autolesionismo e pensieri suicidi per la maggior parte del tempo. un giorno dell'anno scorso ne avevo appena avuto abbastanza e mi ero completamente arreso e avevo perso la speranza che qualcosa sarebbe andato meglio, quella notte ho fatto un attentato alla mia vita che poi mi ha portato in ospedale per essere curato. per chiunque stia pensando di togliersi la vita, per favore, dai alla vita un'altra possibilità, so che le cose sono inimmaginabilmente difficili per te in questo momento, ma le cose possono migliorare con il tempo e il giusto aiuto. sei importante, sei forte e il mondo è un posto migliore con te dentro. continua a combattere <3 Ho lottato con la salute mentale per anni, è stata la cosa più difficile che ho dovuto affrontare perché mi sentivo così solo anche quando le persone cercavano di aiutarmi. Mi sento come se mi fossi perso completamente nell'ultimo anno e fossi sempre depresso e ansioso o semplicemente mi sentissi insensibile e questo è anche peggio. Ho avuto molti tentativi di suicidio e sono stato anche ricoverato in ospedale. Ho il sostegno della mia famiglia e dei miei amici e per quanto ci provino non possono aiutare. I miei pensieri suicidi sono diventati molto più forti e andare avanti ogni giorno mi sembra di correre una maratona. Sta migliorando, è solo difficile. So che un giorno sarò felice, è così difficile aspettarlo. Se stai lottando, non sei solo, continua a volare xxx Anchor 1 Ciao, questa è la mia storia. Da bambino ho avuto difficoltà a crescere, mi è stato detto che non potevo fare molte cose e loro pensavano che non avrei mai potuto. Ho la spina bifida. La spina bifida è una diagnosi fatta dai medici mentre sei nel grembo materno o appena nati o così dicevano quando ero bambino, ma ora puoi essere diagnosticata più tardi nella vita. Mi è stata diagnosticata quando ho compiuto due anni, continuavano a dire a mia madre che non c'era niente di sbagliato in me, ma c'era. È stato difficile crescere, essere giudicati in pubblico, essere vittime di bullismo a scuola e essere trattati in modo completamente diverso e non è giusto. La gente mi considera fortunato perché ci sono altre persone che se la passano peggio di me e lo so. Sono considerato fortunato rispetto a loro perché sono in grado di camminare, sono in grado di vivere la mia vita e sono un grande pieno per questo. Non dovremmo essere trattati diversamente. Dato che sono ancora al liceo, la battaglia non è ancora finita ma devi andare avanti. Raggiungerò l'oro sotto l'arcobaleno 🌈 Questa è la mia storia Negli ultimi 3 o 4 anni ho avuto a che fare con una cattiva salute mentale, sono andato in diverse organizzazioni per la terapia. Ho lottato con pensieri suicidi e prenderei in considerazione l'idea di agire su base giornaliera. Mi facevo del male e c'erano giorni in cui non volevo fare altro che stare a letto lontano dal mondo. Ma dopo un po' di terapia, comprendendo come mi sentivo, sono migliorato. Le crepe non possono guarire completamente, ma so di essere molto più felice di prima perché speravo e lavoravo sodo per essere dove sono oggi. C'è luce alla fine di un tunnel e una volta che ti rendi conto di non essere solo, questo è il tuo primo passo nella giusta direzione. Ho cercato di porre fine alla mia vita 7 volte, l'ultima volta che sono stato in ospedale per un bel po'. Penso ancora di farlo di nuovo, ma poi ricordo tutte le persone che lascerei indietro e non posso far loro questo. La gente dice che migliorerà, ma so che ci vorrà molto tempo per arrivarci, ma so che posso farlo. HAI QUESTO IO CREDO IN TE! Ho lottato con la mia salute mentale dall'età di 12 anni, ora ho quasi 30 anni e ho un elenco di diagnosi. In questo momento ogni secondo di ogni giorno è una lotta. ma so di essere sopravvissuto a 18 anni di tutto questo, quindi arrendermi ora butterebbe via tutto questo. Voglio solo che migliori. Sono stanco di combattere. Ho avuto periodi di felicità, quindi so che tornerò un giorno, ma è così difficile concentrarsi su quello quando le cose si fanno così oscure. la mia storia è iniziata quando avevo 10 anni quando sono stato abusato sessualmente da uno dei miei amici fratelli, è successo in più occasioni e non mi ha davvero colpito fino all'età di 14 o 15 anni. ho iniziato a diventare molto ansioso e anche nervoso come affetto da episodi depressivi. durante quel periodo, ho iniziato ad autolesionarsi come un modo per farcela. è stato quando avevo 16 anni quando ho iniziato a provare pensieri suicidi che consumavano la mia mente tutto il tempo. Attualmente ho 17 anni e sto ancora combattendo con la mia mente, pensieri suicidi e il pensiero di una ricaduta. Spero a tutti coloro che stanno leggendo questo che stiate bene e che restiate forti. sei così apprezzato. sei così degno. e ti amo così tanto che è la mia storia x I recently lost my uncle to cancer and it fully destroyed me, i ended up shutting myself away and turning to self harm as i couldn't even start to explain the feelings in me. But there is always a light at the end of the tunnel even when its beyond hard to find, but throughout it ive learnt theres always going to be someone there to help you and get you back on the right track x "I’ve been struggling my whole life with my mental health I grew up with drug addicted parents and the trauma and pain from that really broke me I found one of my parents almost dead one day but I never really understood half of it tell I got older it only got worse when I started secondary school I spiralled into a bad depression I started self harming and developing my own mental issues on top of the trauma I grew up with the pain I felt inside broke me racing sad thoughts 24 hours of the day and I jsut couldn’t think about anything else I tried loads of things to help me but nothing stopped I had restless nights and a chest filled with axienty all the times I was sent to camhs and told them all of my story and I was told I was looking for attention at that point I felt so alone that I was nearing a attempt on my life i tried peita house they where good but it Only helped for a few hours to share my story but it dint change anything for me I was so tired of it all I left school stopped doing the things I loved and I felt so bad because most of the pain I was feeling was projected onto others with anger and I just wanted to scream my pain out but I jsut couldn’t in fear of being judged every day was a loop i simply thought nobody would care and when I came home every day or night I had nobody to turn to because my parents would be on drugs or asleep because they where taking drugs the night before. I grew up so quick because of all this I still struggle to this day but I’m getting better now the scars I have are just battle scars and it reminds me everyday that I’m strong because look what I got myself through makes me feel so proud of myself because I’ve been through the unthinkable sad life and I somehow pulled through -HOLD ON PAIN ENDS" Your Stories Do you want your story submitted anonymously on the page. Choose an Issue Write Your story here Send Thank you, You are very brave.

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

Eating Disorders An eating disorder is a mental health disorder where you use food and weight to cope with emotional distress. People of all ages, genders and backgrounds can develop an eating disorder, although teenagers and young women are at higher risk. With treatment, you can recover from an eating disorder. If you are going through an eating disorder, it is important to have the right assessment and treatment as early as possible to help you deal with your physical, nutritional and mental health needs. If you're struggling with an eating disorder you're not alone. There is support there and you can get through it. Recovery is the best option, it can be a long and hard road but you can get through it. You are so much stronger than you even know. "What are the types of eating disorders?" Anorexia Nervosa Anorexia (or anorexia nervosa) is a serious mental illness where people are of low weight due to limiting how much they eat and drink. They may develop “rules” around what they feel they can and cannot eat, as well as things like when and where they’ll eat. Anorexia can affect anyone of any age, gender, ethnicity or background. As well as limiting how much they eat, they may do lots of exercise, make themselves sick, or misuse laxatives to get rid of food eaten. Some people with anorexia may experience cycles of bingeing (eating large amounts of food at once) and then purging. Read more Bulimia (or bulimia nervosa) is a serious mental illness. It can affect anyone of any age, gender, ethnicity or background. People with bulimia are caught in a cycle of eating large quantities of food (called bingeing), and then trying to compensate for that overeating by vomiting, taking laxatives or diuretics, fasting, or exercising excessively (called purging). Treatment at the earliest possible opportunity gives the best chance for a fast and sustained recovery from bulimia. Read more Bulimia OSFED Anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating disorder are diagnosed using a list of expected behavioural, psychological, and physical symptoms. Sometimes a person’s symptoms don’t exactly fit the expected symptoms for any of these three specific eating disorders. In that case, they might be diagnosed with an “other specified feeding or eating disorder” (OSFED). This is very common. OSFED accounts for the highest percentage of eating disorders, and anyone of any age, gender, ethnicity or background can experience it. It is every bit as serious as anorexia, bulimia, or binge eating disorder, and can develop from or into another diagnosis. People suffering from OSFED need and deserve treatment just as much as anyone else with an eating disorder. Read more Rumination disorder Rumination disorder is an illness that involves repetitive, habitual bringing up of food that might be partly digested. It often occurs effortlessly and painlessly, and is not associated with nausea or disgust. Rumination disorder can affect anyone at any age. Vomiting in rumination disorder is different to the kind of sickness you might get with a stomach bug, for example – the person won’t appear to feel sick or experience involuntary retching. The person may re-chew and re-swallow the food or just spit it out. People with rumination disorder often do not feel in control of their disorder. Read more ARFID Avoidant restrictive food intake disorder, more commonly known as ARFID, is a condition characterised by the person avoiding certain foods or types of food, having restricted intake in terms of overall amount eaten, or both. Someone might be avoiding and/or restricting their intake for a number of different reasons. Read more Binge eating disorder Binge eating disorder (BED) is a serious mental illness where people eat very large quantities of food without feeling like they’re in control of what they’re doing. It can affect anyone of any age, gender, ethnicity or background, and evidence suggests it is more common than other eating disorders. Read more Orthorexia refers to an unhealthy obsession with eating “pure” food. Food considered “pure” or “impure” can vary from person to person. This doesn’t mean that anyone who subscribes to a healthy eating plan or diet is suffering from orthorexia. As with other eating disorders, the eating behaviour involved – “healthy” or “clean” eating in this case – is used to cope with negative thoughts and feelings, or to feel in control. Someone using food in this way might feel extremely anxious or guilty if they eat food they feel is unhealthy Orthorexia Read more PICA Pica is a feeding disorder in which someone eats non-food substances that have no nutritional value, such as paper, soap, paint, chalk, or ice. For a diagnosis of pica, the behaviour must be present for at least one month, not part of a cultural practice, and developmentally inappropriate – generally, it’s not diagnosed in children under the age of two, as it is common for babies to “mouth” objects, which can lead to them accidentally eating substances that aren’t meant to be eaten. Often, pica is not revealed until medical consequences occur, such as metal toxicity, cracked teeth, or infections Read more Anyone of any age, gender, background etc can suffer from an eating disorder. You don't need to be underweight to have an eating disorder. Your thoughts and feelings are valid and its important to get help. A person can develop an eating disorder for any number of reasons, and there is usually an accumulation of ‘risk factors’ which are identified as the person progresses through treatment. It is not always the case that something significantly traumatic has happened in a person’s life that has caused the eating disorder, although sometimes this can be the case. More often than not, there are many factors that for some reason interact in a particular way for that particular person, triggering them to engage in disordered eating behaviours, which in turn triggers their thinking to become distorted and results in the person becoming increasingly ‘imprisoned’ by the eating disorder. - Bodywhys BEAT Eating disorders can take up someone's life and they might feel horrible about themselves. Try to be patient if you know someone who is struggling and listen. Beateatingdisorder UK is a brilliant charity in the UK and they have a lot of information and resources. Body whys Ireland is also a great Charity for eating disorders in Ireland. Bodywhys If you or someone else is in crisis or having a medical emergency, go to your nearest hospital or call your countrys emergency number. 999, 911, 112,000 Resources and helplines

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

OCD Obsessive. Compulsive. Disorder Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a common, chronic, and long-lasting disorder in which a person has uncontrollable, reoccurring thoughts ("obsessions") and/or behaviours ("compulsions") that he or she feels the urge to repeat over and over. People with OCD may have symptoms of obsessions, compulsions, or both. These symptoms can interfere with all aspects of life, such as work, school, and personal relationships. Obsessions are repeated thoughts, urges, or mental images that cause anxiety. Common symptoms include: Fear of germs or contamination Unwanted forbidden or taboo thoughts involving sex, religion, or harm Aggressive thoughts towards others or self Having things symmetrical or in a perfect order Compulsions are repetitive behaviours that a person with OCD feels the urge to do in response to an obsessive thought. Common compulsions include: Excessive cleaning and/or handwashing Ordering and arranging things in a particular, precise way Repeatedly checking on things, such as repeatedly checking to see if the door is locked or that the oven is off Compulsive counting Not all rituals or habits are compulsions. Everyone double checks things sometimes. But a person with OCD generally: Can't control his or her thoughts or behaviours, even when those thoughts or behaviours are recognized as excessive Spends at least 1 hour a day on these thoughts or behaviours Doesn’t get pleasure when performing the behaviours or rituals, but may feel brief relief from the anxiety the thoughts cause Experiences significant problems in their daily life due to these thoughts or behaviours Some individuals with OCD also have a tic disorder. Motor tics are sudden, brief, repetitive movements, such as eye blinking and other eye movements, facial grimacing, shoulder shrugging, and head or shoulder jerking. Common vocal tics include repetitive throat-clearing, sniffing, or grunting sounds. Symptoms may come and go, ease over time, or worsen. People with OCD may try to help themselves by avoiding situations that trigger their obsessions, or they may use alcohol or drugs to calm themselves. Although most adults with OCD recognize that what they are doing doesn’t make sense, some adults and most children may not realize that their behaviour is out of the ordinary. Parents or teachers typically recognize OCD symptoms in children. If you think you have OCD, talk to your health care provider about your symptoms. If left untreated, OCD can interfere in all aspects of life. Some common obsessions include: intense worry about catching a disease or infection thinking about having to do things in a certain order or number of times to feel safe and reduce anxiety fear of acting inappropriately fear of harming others or yourself, even though you may have no intention to do so You may have unwanted sexual thoughts or images that you fear you may act on. While these thoughts can be distressing, it does not mean you will act on them. Getting help Get help if you think you have OCD and it's having a neg ative impact on your life. If you think a friend has OCD, find out if their thoughts or behaviours are causing problems for them. For example, in their daily routines and quality of life. OCD is unlikely to get better on its own. Treatment and support can help you manage your symptoms. To get help, talk to your GP. They can refer you to local psychological support services. Tips for dealing with OCD selfcare for OCD 7 strategies to deal with OCD OCD in Children Paediatric OCD Helping a child with OCD Information used on this page is gathered from. www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/obsessive-compulsive-disorder-ocd https://www2.hse.ie/conditions/obsessive-compulsive-disorder/ Support Ireland Resources and helplines

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 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