Groundbreaking programme builds ‘Stronger Minds, Happier Lives’
The mental health programme is “by athletes, for athletes”
‘Stronger Minds, Happier Lives,’ Ireland’s first mental health promotion programme for people with intellectual disabilities has commenced following a launch at the Sport Ireland Campus by Special Olympics Ireland and Mental Health Ireland.
The five-module programme was developed and coproduced with Special Olympics Health Messengers, Staff, Volunteers and Mental Health Ireland. The programme will help athletes to:
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grow their understanding of mental health
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manage stress and express feelings
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develop skills to cope with challenging emotions and tough conversations
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learn about the support services available.
The first module of the programme was delivered on 28 January to 65 Team Ireland athletes who will represent the nation in the 2023 Special Olympics World Summer Games in Berlin, Germany.
The module was co-delivered by athletes and Special Olympics Health Messengers Patricia Larkin, Margaret Turley and Jonathan Deering, alongside Special Olympics staff, volunteers and Mental Health Ireland staff.
The next 3 modules will be delivered virtually via Zoom, with the final session being delivered in person before athletes travel to Berlin.
“Stronger Minds, Happier Lives will help athletes to help each other. That’s why I became a Health Messenger, and it’s great that mental health is being supported because looking after your thoughts and feelings is just as important as looking after your body.”
- Deirdre Nevin, Health Messenger
“This programme and partnership with Mental Health Ireland will have a lasting impact on the lives of athletes and goes a long way towards achieving our mission of inclusive health. Inclusive health means people with intellectual disabilities are able to take full advantage of the same health programs and services available to people who do not have an intellectual disability.”
- Hayley Kavanagh, Health & Wellbeing Co-ordinator with Special Olympics Ireland
“One of the unique strengths of this programme is that it was coproduced by the Health Messengers for their peers. The creative and progressive tools they developed to protect mental health rounds the programme out with hope and empowerment.”
- Sonia Rennicks, Head of Education, Training & e-Mental Health with Mental Health Ireland
