AWARE NI runs 24 support groups across rural and urban NI, plus two online. Led by trained volunteers, they welcome people with anxiety, depression, or bipolar - carers too. Groups operate throughout the festive period, providing vital support during a time when many people experience loneliness.
Categories
Beneficiaries
Mental illness is the leading cause of ill health in Northern Ireland, affecting 1 in 5 adults and 45,000 children. Rates remain higher than in other UK regions. Christmas often worsens loneliness, anxiety, and depression, especially as essential services close. For those living with depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder, this time of year can be overwhelming. Our peer-led support groups offer a vital lifeline, a safe, welcoming space when connection and support are needed most.
Christmas is often isolating for people living with mental ill-health. Loneliness, anxiety, and depression can intensify in December as services close and disconnection grows. AWARE NI support groups offer safe spaces to connect, share, and be understood. Facilitated by trained volunteers, they provide emotional support, coping tools, and resilience. Staying open over Christmas ensures vital help is available when it’s needed most, reminding people they are not alone.