Mental health week backed by Laois Sports Partnership
Laois Sports Partnership are not just about the physical but the mental health and wellness of Laois communities.
They are delivering multiple events for Laois Connects Mental mental health week underway this October.
Among those are activator poles walks, a Minding Me workshop, delivered by the Edufit team and an inclusive activity day, and talks on the female cycle, substance abuse, dealing with anxiety, tackling depression, overcoming setbacks and setting goals.
Caroline Myers is the Co-Ordinator Laois Sports Partnership.
"We are delighted to support another year of the Laois Connects Initiative. The promotion of positive mental health and wellbeing is very important to the LSP. Wellness can be achieved in a variety of ways, and we aim to provide opportunities for the people of Laois and beyond to find their way to wellness through the delivery of programmes, events and sharing of
information and resources.
"Sport and physical is a great way to improve your overall health and wellbeing, from the physical benefits to the social aspect and sense of achievement, there is so much to be gained from being active.
"Whether it is football training or going for a walk, the benefits of physical activity for your mental health should not be taken for granted," Ms Myers said.
Laois Sports Partnership's support for the Laois Connects initiative in 2023 included four free talks.
Training and the female cycle with EduFIT (Online), Ross King's Wellness Talk for Mountrath Community School, 3. Ross King's Wellness Talk for St. Fergal’s College Rathdowney and Eric Donovan’s Redemption Story at Portlaoise College.
"These four talks were targeted at teenagers and young adults which included the sharing of information, tools and personal experiences. In the present day, there are a number of factors that can pose as challenges for young people and put them at risk of having poor mental health. It is important that they are encouraged to speak about their problems and understand there are ways you can take action to better your mental health and overall wellbeing.
“We are delighted to support the Laois Connects Initiative in 2023. The topic of mental health is one of high importance for the LSP and equal to the promotion of our physical health. Through the collaboration with Laois County Council, local services, partner agencies, clubs and communities we can spread a positive message about the benefits of being physical active for your wellbeing and encouraging people to get out and get active, whether it be go for a walk, cycle, swim or take part in
an activity,” Caroline Myers said.
The Laois Connects 2023 Health & Wellbeing Programme, led by Laois County Council is taking place from October 9 to 15. Events are happening throughout the county, see schedule on www.laois.ie