#109 Overdose Awareness In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast, host Fergal Fox is joined by Jenny Smyth (HSE National Social Inclusion Office) and Rob (Ana Liffey Drugs Project) to mark International Overdose Awareness Day. The discussion explores overdose risks in Ireland, the vital role of naloxone, and the importance of peer-led intervention and community support. The guests share practical advice on recognising and responding to overdoses, highlight the trauma experienced by those affected, and emphasise the need for open conversations, training, and compassion to reduce stigma and save lives. [35 minutes]

#104 Little People, Big Feelings: Helping kids manage their emotions In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast, host Fergal Fox and guests Melissa Vindigni (Senior Occupational Therapist), Muireann Treacy (Senior Clinical Psychologist) and Rosemary Kavanagh (Senior Speech and Language Therapist) discuss the emotional experiences of young children under the theme "Little People, Big Feelings." They explore the normalcy of intense emotions in children, the developmental stages of emotional regulation, and the critical role of co-regulation, where parents help children manage their emotions. The episode emphasises the importance of parental calmness, understanding sensory triggers, and using simple communication to support children's emotional growth. The speakers also highlight the challenges parents face and the need for self-compassion and realistic expectations.

#100 Supporting your Teen with Anxiety In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, host Fergal Fox speaks with experts Rosemary Kavanagh (Speech and Language Therapist), Niamh Garavin (Occupational Therapist), and Muireann Treacy (Clinical Psychologist) about the intricacies of adolescent development, with a particular focus on anxiety. Their discussion addresses the swift changes teenagers experience, the effects of anxiety, and the crucial role of clear communication. Niamh emphasises the value of a supportive atmosphere, while Muireann underscores the importance of active listening and nonverbal cues. The episode also explores co-regulation, the role of social media, and the importance of self-care for parents. Listeners are encouraged to foster open, compassionate relationships with their teenagers and to seek professional help when needed.

#99 Balancing Stress In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, Dr. Niamh Clarke, Principal Psychologist Manager and Programme Presenter, and Dr. Aleisha Clarke, National Programme Manager for Mental Health and Wellbeing, joins host Noreen Turley to introduce the new Balancing Stress programme, which is a free, easy-to-access, evidence-based online course in stress management, developed in partnership with HSE Health and Wellbeing and HSE psychologists. Through the conversation, Niamh and Aleisha explore how stress affects so many of us, how it can build up unnoticed, and why understanding our own patterns of stress is the first step to managing it more effectively. The episode highlights key themes covered across the six sessions, including practical tools for managing worry, anxiety, low mood, improving relationships, and managing stress into the future. It also explains how the programme combines techniques from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Positive Psychology, and Compassion-Focused Therapy to offer real, practical support. This feels a little bit repetitive as you have already noted the tools and techniques

#96 Parenting in a Digital World In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, we explore how strong, supportive relationships between parents and children are one of the most effective protectors against online harm. Creating a safe space for open, age-appropriate conversations helps build empathy, promotes healthy values, and supports children to navigate an increasingly complex digital world with confidence...

#94 Promoting Youth Health in Youth Organisations we delve into the programme's mission to enhance youth health and wellbeing through the dedicated efforts of youth workers.

#93 The Power of Family Resource Centres we discuss the crucial role of Family Resource Centres.

#92 Getting Ireland active we explore the positive developments and initiatives happening to encourage everyone to get active.

#91 The HSE's Digital Future we explore the impact of digital transformation on Ireland’s healthcare system.

#90 Youth, alcohol & health. 26 February 2025 (31 minutes) In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, we explore the challenges young people face when navigating alcohol in Ireland today. Martina Byrne, Manager of Cross Care Ronanstown Youth Service, and Sive Brennan, a Leaving Cert student and junior youth worker, join us for an insightful discussion on peer pressure, societal attitudes, and the impact of alcohol on young people. Martina highlights the critical services Cross Care provides, supporting young people through education, youth diversion programmes, and mental health initiatives. She also emphasises the importance of delaying alcohol consumption due to its negative effects on brain development and overall wellbeing. Sive shares her first-hand experiences in youth work, discussing the role of education and supportive environments in helping young people resist peer pressure. She also explores the financial and health consequences of alcohol use and the growing trend of zero-alcohol beverages, questioning their impact on youth drinking culture. For parents and educators, this episode offers practical advice on fostering open conversations, setting a positive example, and building trust to help young people make informed choices. It reinforces the vital role parents play in shaping attitudes towards alcohol and guiding their children towards healthier decisions.  For more information for parents on preventing alcohol use in young people, visit the HSE website: https://www2.hse.ie/living-well/alcohol/information-parents/preventing-use/ 

#89 Age friendly Ireland, 19 February 2025

#88 Declutter Your Mind, 12 February 2025

#87 Keeping a healthy smile, 05 February 2025

#86 The truth about alcohol & cancer, 29 January 2025 (28 minutes) 
In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, the discussion features insights from Dr. Breeda Neville, Public Health Specialist and Dr. Sheila Gilheany, CEO of Alcohol Action Ireland. The conversation centred around the significant public health issues associated with alcohol use, particularly its links to cancer. We discuss the new alcohol labelling laws which aim to provide consumers with clear and unbiased information about the products they consume. The call to action from Dr. Neville encourages listeners to consider the immediate benefits of reducing alcohol consumption, such as improved physical and mental health, better sleep, and enhanced relationships. Both Sheila and Breeda agreed that healthcare professionals can play a crucial role in raising awareness and they encouraged health care staff to engage patients in conversations about their alcohol use. Sheila also outlines the challenges posed by the alcohol industry where the marketing used can in some cases obscure the serious health risks associated with alcohol consumption. 

#85 You, me & HIV, 22 January 2025 (46 minutes)
In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, we have a discussion on the "You, Me and HIV" campaign, focusing on HIV awareness and stigma reduction. Guests include Dr. Robbie Lawler and Veda Lady, both HIV activists and co-hosts of the Poz Vibe podcast, who share their personal experiences and highlight the importance of community support. Professor Fiona Lyons, HSE Clinical Lead of the Sexual Health Programme, discusses advancements in HIV treatment and the need to dismantle stigma in healthcare. The episode highlights the significance of representation, allyship, and the message "Undetectable = Untransmittable" (U=U).

#84 Farmer wellbeing, 15 January 2025 (29 minutes) 
In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, we discuss Farmer Wellbeing with Dr. John McNamara from Teagasc, and Finola Colgan from Mental Health Ireland. They explore the unique mental health challenges farmers face, the importance of health and safety, and initiatives to support their wellbeing. Key topics include the difficulty of accessing mental health services in rural areas, the significance of community engagement, and programmes like Farm Connect and On Feirm Ground, that provide resources and training to improve farmers' mental health and overall wellbeing.

#83 Patient voices shaping healthcare, 08 January 2025 (36 minutes)
In this episode, we speak to John Wall, a dedicated healthcare campaigner, about his personal journey as a patient advocate. From overcoming challenges to building trust and fostering collaboration, John highlights the significance of Patient Partnership in healthcare decision-making. He discusses his role on the local Programme Improvement Board, the growing inclusion of patient voices, and the importance of clear communication and mutual respect between healthcare professionals and patients. With a vision for a more structured approach to patient involvement, John shares valuable insights and inspires listeners to engage and contribute to shaping a responsive and inclusive healthcare system in the HSE. For more information on this work in the HSE go to https://www.hse.ie/eng/about/who/national-services/partnering-with-patients/.