This campaign has now closed
AWARE NI operates 23 support groups across NI rural and urban areas, including two online. Run by trained volunteers, groups welcome those with depression and bipolar disorder, as well as carers. Services remain open at Christmas, providing vital support during this period of heightened loneliness.
Categories
Beneficiaries
Situation
Mental illness is the leading cause of ill health in NI, with higher levels than other UK regions. Around 1 in 5 adults and 45,000 children in NI have mental health issues at any time. Living with depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder can be isolating. The holiday season can exacerbate loneliness and stress, underscoring the need for accessible support groups that remain open at Christmas when many services close. Our groups offer a vital lifeline for those feeling isolated and overwhelmed.
Solution
Support groups provide environments where individuals facing mental health challenges connect, share experiences, and receive understanding. These groups, led by trained volunteers, offer emotional support, coping strategies, and resilience-building. Staying open at Christmas ensures continuous access to vital support, helping individuals maintain mental well-being. These safe spaces foster peer support, empowering individuals to manage their conditions effectively and realise they're not alone.
