Taking ACTION!
Innovating for Mental Health
Mental health continues to be highlighted as a recurring issue of concern among Irish teenagers. Here are just some examples of young people taking ACTION on this issue through Young Social Innovators' programmes.
How do these stories inspire you?
Suicide - An East Belfast perspective
Ashfield Boys’ High School, Hollywood Road, Belfast, Co. Antrim (2013)
The Idea
To emphasise the importance of all aspects of health, including physical, social and emotional wellbeing.
The ACTION
This team researched the reasons why suicide levels are increasing in East Belfast, and the impact that suicide has on family members. The research indicated that health is a major concern in the local area. The YSI project team wanted to help teenage boys develop skills and knowledge about their health, so decided to organise a school health fair. The project team invited a range of organisations concerned with physical, emotional and social wellbeing to exhibit at the school health fair.
The Impact
The health fair was held in May 2013 with representation from many organisations including Disability Action NI, Action Mental Health, the Simon Community and Barnardos. The fair raised awareness of all aspects of student wellbeing, and directed students towards support from local services.