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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.

Anxiety Anxiety is your body's natural response to stress. It's a feeling of fear or apprehension about what's to come. The first day of school, going to a job interview, or giving a speech may cause most people to feel fearful and nervous. - https://www.healthline.com/health/anxiety Anxiety is quite hard to live with and it’s different for everyone. A lot of people might not understand anxiety but everyone gets anxiety from time to time just other people are anxious all the time. What triggers one person's anxiety may not create the same response in someone else. A break-up, concern about exams or work, or an argument with a friend can make you feel anxious, worried or scared. Anxiety is an everyday feeling. But it can become a problem when there is no obvious reason for it. Or when anxious feelings persist for more than a couple of weeks. Physical effects of anxiety Dry mouth and/or difficulty swallowing Nightmares Difficulty getting to and staying asleep Poor concentration Muscle tension and headaches Rapid heart rate and breathing Sweating or trembling Diarrhoea A flare-up of another health problem or illness (for example, dermatitis, asthma) Some common ways anxiety can affect your behaviour and feelings Irritability or always being in a bad mood Having a strong urge to avoid situations that could trigger your anxiety Worry or always feeling that something bad is about to happen Asking a lot of needless questions and needing constant reassurance Being a perfectionist Being pessimistic and focusing on what may go wrong in any given situation https://www2.hse.ie/conditions/mental-health/anxiety.html How to deal with anxiety. Try these when you're feeling anxious or stressed: Take a time-out. Practice yoga, listen to music, meditate, get a massage, or learn relaxation techniques. Stepping back from the problem helps clear your head. Eat well-balanced meals. Do not skip any meals. Do keep healthful, energy-boosting snacks on hand. Limit alcohol and caffeine, which can aggravate anxiety and trigger panic attacks. Get enough sleep. When stressed, your body needs additional sleep and rest. Exercise daily to help you feel good and maintain your health. Check out the fitness tips below. Take deep breaths. Inhale and exhale slowly. Count to 10 slowly. Repeat, and count to 20 if necessary. Do your best. Instead of aiming for perfection, which isn't possible, be proud of however close you get. Accept that you cannot control everything. Put your stress in perspective: Is it really as bad as you think? Welcome humor. A good laugh goes a long way. Maintain a positive attitude. Make an effort to replace negative thoughts with positive ones. Get involved. Volunteer or find another way to be active in your community, which creates a support network and gives you a break from everyday stress. Learn what triggers your anxiety. Is it work, family, school, or something else you can identify? Write in a journal when you’re feeling stressed or anxious, and look for a pattern. Panic Attacks and Anxiety Remember if you're struggling, talk to someone. Talk to a friend, family member, teacher or just anyone. once you start talking it gets easier Helplines

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. Leggi di più 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. Ottenere aiuto per abusi sui minori Bambini e giovani Childline è un servizio di supporto riservato per bambini e giovani. Rispondono a chiamate su un'ampia gamma di difficoltà, compreso l'abuso. Puoi contattarli 24 ore al giorno su 1800 66 66 66 . Puoi anche inviare un messaggio di testo "Parla" a 50101 . Puoi anche contattare 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 , infastidito e/o umiliato. Leggi di più Conserva una registrazione scritta di ogni incidente. Annota l'ora e il luogo dell'incidente, con il maggior numero di dettagli possibile, e annota tutte le persone che hanno visto cosa è successo e che potrebbero essere testimoni in qualsiasi procedimento penale. Denuncia il crimine al Gardaí. Le molestie sono un reato. È importante che lo segnaliate e che facciate una dichiarazione al Gardaí su quanto sta accadendo. Ogni incidente dovrebbe essere segnalato al Gardaí. Se un incidente is serious, it dovrebbe essere segnalato immediatamente al Gardaí. Prendi in considerazione la mediazione. Soprattutto se si tratta di molestie nel tuo quartiere, questo approccio non conflittuale potrebbe fornirti il miglior risultato. La mediazione è un servizio riservato che offre alle parti coinvolte in una controversia un metodo alternativo per risolvere i loro problemi e raggiungere un accordo accettabile per entrambe le parti. Tuttavia, la mediazione non è sempre possibile or consigliabile in alcune situazioni. Se ritieni che la mediazione possa essere un'opzione per la tua situazione, contatta la linea di assistenza per le vittime del crimine per ulteriori informazioni. Conserva tutti i testi, i messaggi vocali, le email o gli screenshot dei commenti sui social media, poiché saranno utili in qualsiasi indagine che potrebbe aver luogo. Contatta il tuo fornitore di servizi telefonici per un consiglio se le molestie sono telefoniche. Ogni provider ha una politica per affrontare il problema. Potrebbe essere possibile bloccare le comunicazioni in entrata indesiderate. Se la molestia avviene tramite social media, puoi segnalarla all'organizzazione di social media pertinente. È possibile impedire a una persona di entrare in contatto con te sulla maggior parte dei siti di social media. Prendi in considerazione l'installazione di una videocamera nella tua proprietà per fornire prove di molestie e come deterrente. Sono ora disponibili telecamere a basso costo. Evita di essere coinvolto in una disputa. Non rispondere o vendicare. Se lo fai, è meno probabile che un caso abbia successo contro la persona che ti sta molestando. Se la molestia si verifica in un'area residenziale di un'autorità pubblica, assicurati di segnalarla alla contea o al consiglio comunale. Se la molestia ha luogo in your workplace dovresti segnalarlo al tuo datore di lavoro. Parla dei tuoi sentimenti con qualcuno di cui ti puoi fidare – un familiare, un amico, un collega. Vivere questa esperienza è molto difficile ed è importante avere support. Informarsi sulle misure di sicurezza che possono essere adottate per prevenire molestie. Puoi chiedere consiglio a a Garda Crime Prevention Officer. La tua stazione del Garda locale può fornirti i dettagli di contatto. Per ulteriori informazioni su cosa puoi fare, o se desideri discutere della tua esperienza come vittima di molestie, puoi contattare gratuitamente la Crime Victims Helpline al numero 116 006. Cosa puoi fare se vieni molestato Maggiori informazioni Se hai bisogno di maggiori informazioni o se sei dal Regno Unito, ecco alcuni link che potrebbero aiutarti. Servizi per le vittime del Garda Servizi di supporto della polizia nel Regno Unito Abuso domestico Regno Unito aiuti alle donne nel Regno Unito Rifugio Mente Regno Unito Linea di consulenza maschile linea di supporto nel Regno Unito Informazioni per i cittadini Regno Unito Polizia del Regno Unito Childline Regno Unito Le risorse e le informazioni del progetto Hope

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. Sintomi di Ideazione suicida 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

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

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

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

If you are struggling right now you arent alone, On this page is resources and helplines worldwide. Resources and Helplines We all need help from time to time, and there is nothing wrong with asking for it. Don't suffer in silence; someone is always willing to listen. If you are unable to locate resources in your country or require additional information, please email thehopeproject.ie@gmail.com. Irelands helplines United kingdom Childline Childline , Call 0800 1111 or online chat, Talk about anything . For people up to the age of 19 Go to website Papyrus Papyrus, support Call: 0800 068 4141 Text: 07860 039 967 Email: pat@papyrus-uk.org Go to website Samaritans Samaritans, Call 116 123 Email jo@samaritans.org Go to website Anxiety UK Information and support for individuals suffering with anxiety. Go to website Kooth Your online mental wellbeing community Free, safe and anonymous support Go to website Beat Eating disorders They are the UK’s eating disorder charity. Founded in 1989 as the Eating Disorders Association, Their mission is to end the pain and suffering caused by eating disorders. Go to website Shout Crisis text line Text HELLO to 85258 Shout 85258 is the UK's first free, confidential, 24/7 text support service. It's a place to go if you're struggling to cope and need mental health support. Go to website Mind.org.uk A guide to taking the first steps, making empowered decisions and getting the right support for you. Go to website The Mix If you're under 25, you can call The Mix on 0808 808 4994 (3pm–midnight every day), request support by email using this form on The Mix website or use their crisis text messenger service. Go to website In an emergency Go to your GP. Call NHS 111 If you someone's life is at risk – for example, they have seriously injured themselves or taken an overdose you do not feel you can keep yourself or someone else safe A mental health emergency should be taken as seriously as a physical one. You will not be wasting anyone's time. Call: 999 Go to website USA Crisis Text line Call or text 988 open 24/7. It's Ok to Not Be Ok, Call or Text 988 To Reach Trained Counselors & Crisis Professionals. 988 Cares, 988 Listens, 988 Doesn't Judge, 988 Understands. Call Or Text 24/7. Go to website Safe Helpline Connect and Find Support through DoD Safe Helpline Call 877-995-5247 to be connected with a trained, confidential Safe Helpline staff member, 24/7. DSN users can call Safe Helpline by dialing 877-995-5247. For those unable to call toll-free or DSN, call 202-540-5962. Go to website Sexual assault hotline National Sexual Assault Hotline 1-800-656-HOPE (4673). Stop it Now! 1-888-PREVENT National Child Abuse Hotline 1-800-4-A-CHILD (422-4453) Go to website More hotlines and resources Need to talk to someone? Specialists are available for confidential telephone counselling. Go to website In an emergency If you someone's life is at risk – for example, they have seriously injured themselves or taken an overdose you do not feel you can keep yourself or someone else safe A mental health emergency should be taken as seriously as a physical one. You will not be wasting anyone's time. Call: 911 Canada Crisis Text line call Talk Suicide Canada at 1-833-456-4566. Support is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Go to website Wellness To connect with a mental health professional one-on-one: call 1-888-668-6810 or text WELLNESS to 686868 for youth call 1-866-585-0445 or text WELLNESS to 741741 for adults Go to website Sexual assault hotline National hotlines can help connect victims, survivors, and their support networks connect with local resources. The Victim Connect Resource Center is one of several national hotlines that are dedicated to helping victims understand their rights and options, and make the choices that will best support their recovery. Go to website More hotlines and resources Need to talk to someone? Specialists are available for confidential telephone counselling. Go to website In an emergency If you someone's life is at risk – for example, they have seriously injured themselves or taken an overdose you do not feel you can keep yourself or someone else safe A mental health emergency should be taken as seriously as a physical one. You will not be wasting anyone's time. Call: 911 New Zealand Crisis line Call or text 1739. Open 24/7 Healthline Healthline – 0800 611 116 Go to website Samaritans Samaritans – 0800 726 666 Go to website Lifeline Lifeline – 0800 543 354 (0800 LIFELINE) or free text 4357 (HELP). Go to website More hotlines and resources Go to website The low down thelowdown.co.nz – or email team@thelowdown.co.nz or free text 5626 Go to website Suicide crisis Suicide Crisis Helpline – 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO). Go to website Youthline Youthline – 0800 376 633, free text 234 or email talk@youthline.co.nz or online chat. Go to website Whats up What's Up – 0800 942 8787 (for 5–18 year olds). Go to website In an emergency If you someone's life is at risk – for example, they have seriously injured themselves or taken an overdose you do not feel you can keep yourself or someone else safe A mental health emergency should be taken as seriously as a physical one. You will not be wasting anyone's time. Call: 111 Norway Crisis line Telephone: 116 123 Mental Health Helpline Tel: 810 30 030 Go to website More resources and helplines Go to website In an emergency If you someone's life is at risk – for example, they have seriously injured themselves or taken an overdose you do not feel you can keep yourself or someone else safe A mental health emergency should be taken as seriously as a physical one. You will not be wasting anyone's time. Call: 112 Australia Beyond Blue aims to increase awareness of depression and anxiety and reduce stigma . Call 1300 22 4636, 24 hours/7 days a week, chat online or email. Go to website Blue Knot Foundation Helpline is the National Centre of Excellence for Complex Trauma. It provides support, education and resources for the families and communities of adult survivors of childhood trauma and abuse . Call 1300 657 380, Monday – Sunday between 9am – 5pm AEST or via email helpline@blueknot.org.au . Go to website Butterfly Foundation's National Helpline is a free, confidential service that provides information, counselling and treatment referral for people with eating disorders , and body image and related issues. Call 1800 33 4673, 8am-midnight AEST / 7 days a week, chat online or email. Go to website In an emergency If you or someone you know is in crisis and needs help now, call triple zero (000). You can also call Lifeline on 13 11 14 — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week More resources and helplines Europe In an emergency call 112 Europe helplines