OVER 80 students recently took part in a mental health education programme at a Dublin hospital.
The programme invited transition year students nationwide to take part in a week’s work experience at St Patrick’s Hospital.
The St Patrick’s Willow TY programme incorporated two elements: work placement in various departments in the hospital and mental health awareness classes hosted by the Adolescent Mental Health Team in Willow Grove Adolescent Unit. On their return to school, the students were asked to hold a mental health awareness event for fellow pupils.
Colman Noctor, Adolescent Psychotherapist, said the aim of the programme was to build mental health awareness and understanding among the transition year students and their schoolmates.
“Positive feedback from last year’s student intake has highlighted how beneficial this programme has proved to be,
? he stated.
“International studies show that the onset of mental ill health peaks during the 14-24 age range so educational initiatives such as this are extremely beneficial.
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This year the students from 45 participating schools spent a week at St Patrick’s and most said they felt more confident discussing their mental health after their placement. They also said their view of a psychiatric hospital was significantly improved also.
Paul Gilligan, chief executive at St Patrick’s, said:
“We know that early intervention is the key to recovery so a very important part of this programme is informing students how to access appropriate supports.
“We hope that when they leave St Patrick’s at the end of their placement students will feel better equipped to recognise the warning signs of mental illness and know the importance of seeking help.
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Mr Gilligan believes investment in young people’s mental health will prove to significantly reduce the incidence of severe mental illness in later life.
“Most of all we hope that it will have a positive impact on communities all over Ireland,
? he added.
Katie Jones, a transition year student at Portmarnock Community School, was among those who took part in the programme.
She said:
“Mental Health matters because we all suffer from it. Some more than others, but if we can all work together we can change stigma.
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For more information on the programme, go to www.stpatrickshosp.ie