Home > Increasing understanding of mental health phase 2 report. The views of service users on what would help increase awareness on matters relating to mental health.

Tiglin, Health Service Executive, South Inner City Local Drugs and Alcohol Task Force. Lynch, Marie (2021) Increasing understanding of mental health phase 2 report. The views of service users on what would help increase awareness on matters relating to mental health. Dublin: South Inner City Local Drugs and Alcohol Task Force.

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56 participants contributed to this project across the three Tiglin sites. The consultation and survey findings highlighted some key concerns and considerations in relation to what would help increase mental health awareness. As all of the participants had close or first-hand experience of living with addiction, the insights are particularly informative for future planning for this group of individuals. These are poignantly illustrated in the quotes in the main report and Appendix 3 ‘In their own words. As well as highlighting the key points that were raised, this section also reflects on similarities with themes that emerged from phase 1 of this project. This section also includes the recommendations from the report. All participants who engaged in the consultation spoke extremely positively of their engagement and experiences of services with Tiglin. The comments about service improvements or negative experiences related to what they encountered prior to accessing services from Tiglin. 

The link between mental health and addiction The need for greater awareness and a combined approach to people with mental health needs who also have experienced problematic substance misuse. The participants reflected on their distress and dismay when their mental health issues were not considered in conjunction with their needs presented in relation to their addiction. This theme also emerged in the first phase of the project. 

Awareness of experiences of those who live with mental health issues

Numerous personal and painful experiences were shared detailing a sense of isolation, anxiety, feeling overwhelmed, not feeling understood, and not feeling listened to. The lived experiences of those with mental health issues are instrumental and powerful to help society understand and gain insights into the challenges and emotional journey people living with mental health issues face. This topic was also noted in the first phase of the project. 

Key Points

The participants reflected on their distress and dismay when their mental health issues were not considered in conjunction with their needs presented in relation to their addiction The challenge to find the words to express the impact of the mental health issues they are experiencing was highlighted by many of the participants and signals the need for more awareness and education on matters relating to mental health. 

Family support: There was deep insight into the personal and emotional toll that families experience as part of the experiences that family members shared. The enormous value that was placed on the availability of peer support/ family support groups for families is an important signpost for future service planning. The struggle to maintain healthy relationships with family members was represented by all participants and this area also requires more attention. 

Services: The challenge of navigating mental health services was a common concern by all participants, and this was also raised in the first phase of this project. The value placed on face-to-face contact and counselling service, particularly as an introduction to services is helpful in terms of services planning. 

What has made a difference: Having someone available to listen, who has lived experience and does not judge or dismiss what a person says is what all participants have valued most. In addition, routine, structure, expert advice and consistent information have helped participants in their recovery and understanding. The participants were deeply appreciative of being asked directly about their experience, and the majority indicated they would like to become involved in building awareness on this topic.

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