Tag Archive for: Mental Health
Start of our Mensana Festival activities
We are delighted to be down at the Living Well Expo in the Woodford Dolmen Hotel this morning from 10 am. Pop in and say Hello.
Mensana Festival Events 2025
We have just received our flyer of events for Mensana Fest 2025. Across the month of October CMHA will be appearing at community events or running events of our own. All events are free but some require registering. Check our events page and facebook page for more details. 
Farmer Well-Being Day at Carlow Mart
On Monday , the 11.11.2024, Carlow Mart buzzed with energy and camaraderie as farmers from across the region came together for Farmer Well-Being Day. This event, organised by Macra, Healthy Carlow and Healthy Ireland, provided a wonderful opportunity to network, share experiences, and access vital health and wellness information tailored for the farming community.
The morning was filled with conversations that emphasised the importance of mental and physical well-being. From tips on staying active to resources for managing stress, the day highlighted how vital it is to look after both body and mind in an industry as demanding as farming.
As part of the event, we were delighted to join in, sharing information and connecting with those in attendance. The conversations reinforced the value of community support, especially in rural areas, where challenges can often feel isolating.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Macra, Healthy Carlow and Healthy Ireland for the invitation and their dedication to organizing such impactful events. The positive energy and engagement at Carlow Mart show just how much these initiatives matter to our farming families.
Here’s to more events like this that bring us together and remind us all of the importance of well-being in every part of life!
Our Hello How Are You morning May 15th in Fairgreen Shopping Cernte and outside broadcast by KCLR
On May 15th Carlow Mental Health Association’s held their Hello How are you morning in the Fairgreen, Carlow where we had a live performance of the song Hello How Are You which explores the importance of those four words Hello How Are You from a mental health perspective. Jason Culleton wrote and sang the song with backing from Mary Amond O Brien’s Carlow Community Choir. We have attached a video of some of the pictures and videos that were taken on the morning. Thanks to Brian Redmond and the KCLR team on the morning, Fairgreen Carlow, Carlow Community Choir, Kevin Byrne for recording the video and all those that were part of the morning.
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Kevin Byrne
Christmas Carol Sing Along
Why not come and join in on Saturday and help us spread a bit of festive fun.
Conor Harris: A Journey from Darkness to Hope
In a world where stories have the power to inspire and connect, Conor Harris stands as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Last Saturday, the Carlow Mental Health Association hosted Conor as the guest speaker at this year’s Mensana Fest. The event drew a sizable crowd, with every seat taken, eager to hear Conor’s compelling narrative.
Conor’s rise to popularity began with his appearance on RTE’s Davy’s Toughest Team, but it’s his personal journey that has truly captured the hearts of many. His story is not just a tale; it’s a raw, passionate account delivered by a man who has faced vulnerability head-on, sharing the intricacies of his life’s journey.
The narrative unfolded from Conor’s early years, navigating the challenges of growing up and dealing with family problems. However, it took a darker turn when he found solace in drugs, initially believing they were a solution to his troubles. Little did he know that this choice would lead him down a perilous path of addiction, mental illness, and financial struggles, bringing him to the brink of losing his own life.
Conor’s willingness to share his story is nothing short of bravery. His journey, though harrowing, has transformed him into a positive spokesperson today. Through grit, determination, and the support of the 12-step program, Conor has not only overcome his demons but has also found a way to share his
experiences.
The event attendees were privileged to be part of this transformative moment, hanging onto every word as Conor recounted the highs and lows of his life. His story served as a powerful reminder that help is available, and recovery is possible.
In a poignant question-and-answer session that followed Conor’s talk, he demonstrated an unwavering commitment to transparency. No question was too difficult, no inquiry too challenging. Conor’s openness further endeared him to the audience, fostering an atmosphere of understanding and empathy.
Conor Harris’s journey is not just his own; it’s a beacon of hope for those who may find themselves on a similar path. His ambition is clear — to extend a helping hand to those traversing the same difficult terrain he once navigated.
As we reflect on Conor’s story, we’re reminded that amidst life’s struggles, there is always a possibility for redemption. Conor’s metamorphosis from the depths of despair to a positive force is a testament to the strength that lies within each of us. May his story continue to inspire, uplift, and foster a sense of community among those grappling with their own battles.
Catherine Callaghan’s Empowering Talk at Mensana Fest 2023
The Carlow Mental Health Association’s Mensana Fest 2023 brought together a community eager to explore practical approaches to mental well-being. Among the noteworthy speakers was Catherine Callaghan, whose Friday evening talk resonated with a fully attentive crowd. Catherine’s presentation, “Practicing the Pause for Parents, Teachers, and Caregivers,” unveiled a treasure trove of tools for building a personal Wellness Toolbox. The insights Catherine shared to foster mindfulness and enhance mental resilience were
- Catherine’s first nugget of wisdom involves a fundamental shift in mindset. By changing our focus from speculative “what if” scenarios to acknowledging and addressing the reality of “what is” happening in the present moment, we pave the way for a more grounded and less anxious state of mind.
- In a world characterized by constant hustle, Catherine introduced the audience to the power of controlled breathing. The box breathing technique, with its rhythmic inhale, hold, exhale, and hold sequence, acts as a simple yet potent tool to calm the nervous system. It serves as a reminder that amidst life’s chaos, moments of tranquillity are just a few breaths away. Box breathing (inhale x4 hold x4 exhale x4 hold for x4)
- As modern life encourages multitasking, Catherine advocates for a return to mindfulness by doing one thing at a time. By immersing ourselves fully in each task, we cultivate a sense of presence and focus that can significantly reduce stress and enhance the quality of our work.
- The use of a sacred mantra, coupled with a tactile experience of touching each finger to the thumb, adds a spiritual dimension to Catherine’s toolkit. The repetition of the sounds SA-TA-NA-MA, synchronized with the gentle touch, provides a calming ritual that aids in centering the mind and promoting a sense of inner peace.
- Acknowledging the profound connection between the mind and body, Catherine shared a physical action to reset the midline. Crossing the left foot over the right, the right arm over the left, and embracing oneself is a tangible gesture that symbolizes self-care and self-love. This physical reset encourages a holistic approach to well-being.
By offering a variety of tools that span the mental, emotional, and physical dimensions, Catherine empowered her audience to create their own Wellness Toolbox. As we navigate the complexities of daily life, Catherine’s insights serve as a compass, guiding us toward a more mindful and resilient existence. The event was undoubtedly a testament to the transformative power of simple yet profound practices in nurturing our mental well-being.
Tag Archive for: Mental Health
Calming walk and Soundbath with Mary Clare
Booking is essential for this event. 
