HSE Ascain event champions mental health voices
HSE Ascain Training and Support Service hosted an inspiring mental health awareness event in Letterkenny, engaging local students and community groups. The initiative highlighted personal stories and available supports, fostering empathy and open dialogue across the region.
Source:
HSE — Health Service Executive
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⏱️ 2 min read
To mark World Mental Health Day on 9 October 2026, HSE Ascain Training and Support Service organised the ‘Walk in My Shoes’ event at The Vestry, St Conal’s, Letterkenny. Transition Year students from Coláiste Ailigh and Errigal College participated in a meaningful morning that celebrated mental health awareness, encouraged open conversations, and showcased support options for those facing mental health challenges.
HSE Ascain offers person-centred training programmes and one-to-one support for individuals recovering from mental ill health across its centres in Letterkenny, Dungloe, and Carndonagh. The service focuses on helping participants gain self-awareness, explore their aspirations, and set personal goals, empowering them to find their voice and make informed decisions.
The event invited attendees to design shoes symbolising their understanding of mental health, fostering personal reflection and dialogue. In line with the 2026 World Mental Health Day theme, "Lived Experiences Heard, Real Voices, Real Change," recordings of lived experiences were shared, emphasising the importance of listening to those affected. Gemma McLoone, Manager at HSE Ascain, said the initiative aimed to build empathy and highlight the range of supports available, with many local organisations contributing to the event's success. The gathering concluded with a communal rendition of "Lean on Me," underscoring the power of connection and compassion in mental health support.
HSE Ascain offers person-centred training programmes and one-to-one support for individuals recovering from mental ill health across its centres in Letterkenny, Dungloe, and Carndonagh. The service focuses on helping participants gain self-awareness, explore their aspirations, and set personal goals, empowering them to find their voice and make informed decisions.
The event invited attendees to design shoes symbolising their understanding of mental health, fostering personal reflection and dialogue. In line with the 2026 World Mental Health Day theme, "Lived Experiences Heard, Real Voices, Real Change," recordings of lived experiences were shared, emphasising the importance of listening to those affected. Gemma McLoone, Manager at HSE Ascain, said the initiative aimed to build empathy and highlight the range of supports available, with many local organisations contributing to the event's success. The gathering concluded with a communal rendition of "Lean on Me," underscoring the power of connection and compassion in mental health support.
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