LEAVE NO-ONE BEHIND: that’s the message from mental health campaigners for this coming festive season.

The volunteer-led Depression Hurts Ireland is on its third year of providing support for those affected by such issues over Christmas and New Year. Previously, it has provided peer-to-peer support over social media, recognising that it can be a difficult and lonely time of year for many people.

That campaign is running again this year but they have also added an appeal for people to look close to home and commit to providing particular support to someone in their circle of acquaintances, family or friends who they feel may be feeling low.

The One4One Pledgemaker asks people to be “an informal advocate” for that vulnerable person, to help them feel included, valued and cared for. To help with ideas on how to achieve that, the group has come up with a number of tips including:

• Instead of a hurried hello, ask how they’re feeling and LISTEN
• Pay a compliment, help your One to see the great qualities they have
• Invite them to go for a walk with you
• So something practical for them and keep in touch
• Cook them a meal
• If they need professional help – help them to find it, bringing them to the door if needed
• Be gentle with them and help them to ‘go gently’

There are further tips here on this downloadable pullout, and on their Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, Pinterest, free app, website and contacts list.

What do you think would help in reaching out to someone with depression this festive season? We would love to hear your thoughts and experiences in the comments section below.

Column: I thought I was just trying to beat depression in a one-off fight>
Depression thrives on secrecy and isolation – it’s time to speak out>

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