JustMentalTalk

Mickey Meehan joins us this week to share a deeply personal journey shaped by loss and resilience. In an open conversation, he reflects on the struggles of growing up in Northern Ireland amid conflict and how these experiences have influenced his path to mental health advocacy.

In this episode, Joe Donnelly shares the inspiring story of how the charity TAMI uses sport to promote mental health and prevent suicide. Discover practical programs, mental health myths, and how community engagement can make a difference.

Niall and Maria Heron from New Dawn Health and Wellbeing share their personal journeys and holistic approaches to mental health, emphasizing early intervention, mindfulness, and community connection. This episode highlights practical tools and inspiring stories to support mental well-being for all ages.

In this episode, Sir Norman Lamb discusses the broken state of mental health care, shares personal stories including the loss of his sister to suicide, and explores innovative approaches to mental health support that could transform the system.

In this episode, we explore the work of the Northern Ireland Survivor Council, the importance of survivor-led initiatives, and the need for systemic change to support survivors of childhood sexual abuse. Guests Michelle and Nikella share their journeys, insights, and recommendations for a safer, more inclusive future.

Leah Charles-King shares her personal journey with bipolar disorder, the importance of representation, and how awareness and support can transform lives. Amy Tubb from Bipolar UK discusses the different types of bipolar, the challenges of diagnosis, and the charity's impactful campaigns to raise awareness. 

In this episode, Dr. JP Corrigan, a clinical psychologist specializing in trauma and PTSD, shares insights into the nature of trauma, effective treatments, and the importance of understanding mental health. Discover practical advice on seeking help, different therapy approaches, and how to support those affected by trauma.

In this episode, Susanna Basile from Doctors in Distress discusses the mental health challenges faced by healthcare workers, the impact of systemic issues, and the urgent need for support services in Northern Ireland. She shares personal stories, campaign efforts, and practical steps to foster change and reduce stigma.

Erin Erwin shares her powerful journey from surviving a house fire to becoming an advocate for mental health, disability inclusion, and anti-discrimination. This episode explores resilience, trauma recovery, and the importance of support systems.

In this episode, we explore the challenges and opportunities in Northern Ireland's mental health system, featuring Professor Siobhan O'Neill. We discuss funding gaps, workforce issues, trauma legacy, and innovative service models, aiming to shed light on how to improve mental health support and reduce stigma.

Welcome to this week’s edition of Just Mental Talk, where we dive deep into the raw and often unspoken challenges surrounding mental health. In this episode, host Karl Bennett sits down with Cara Hunter, a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) and an impassioned mental health advocate. 

In this episode, Karl Bennett interviews Commissioner Chris Quinn from the Northern Ireland Children's Commission, exploring the challenges and opportunities in improving children's mental health services, the impact of poverty, and the importance of early intervention and children's rights.

Jonathan Kemp is not only an author but also a mental health advocate who has spent the past ten months walking over 4,200 kilometers to support mental health charities, including Aware Northern Ireland. During our discussion, Jonathan shared his personal struggles with undiagnosed bipolar disorder, depression, addiction, and dyslexia, which have shaped his life and his mission.

In this episode, Dr. Julie Anderson discusses the critical state of mental health services in Northern Ireland, highlighting workforce shortages, funding issues, and the urgent need for systemic change. She shares insights on training pipelines, the impact of burnout, and the importance of integrated care for mental health and physical health.

In this episode, we explore the challenges and opportunities in mental health policy, funding, and services in Northern Ireland, featuring insights from Órlaithí Flynn, MLA, Sinn Fein, who is a key political figure in Northern Ireland. We discuss budget allocations, service delivery, data collection, and innovative initiatives aimed at improving mental health support.

In this episode, Diane Dodds shares her insights on mental health challenges in Northern Ireland, the state of healthcare infrastructure, workforce issues, and strategies for improvement. A must-listen for understanding the complexities and urgent needs in mental health services.  

This episode explores the vital role of psychological autopsy in understanding and preventing suicide. Guests Anne Kelly and Catherine McBennett share insights on how this method helps uncover the complex factors behind suicide and supports families and communities.

In this episode, we explore the state of mental health services in Northern Ireland with MLA Danny Donnelly, a former nurse. We discuss the challenges of long waiting lists, funding issues, stigma, and the need for a comprehensive mental health strategy. 

In this episode, Scott Marshall discusses his play 'A Graceland Baby,' exploring themes of faith, mental health, and sexuality. He shares his personal journey from dark times to creative success, emphasising the importance of honesty, self-acceptance, and the power of storytelling in mental health awareness.

Barry Macaulay is a visionary in the realm of arts and health. For over 35 years, Arts Care has been at the forefront of using creative engagement to enhance mental health. With a background in music and a passion for the arts, Barry is committed to demonstrating how creativity can  Barry Macaulay's work through Arts Care illustrates the profound impact that arts can have on mental health. By enga...

This episode features Dr. Sophie Hodgetts and Dr. Lindsay Matthews discussing PMDD, its diagnosis, impact, and ongoing research efforts in the UK. Learn about the condition, barriers to diagnosis, and how increased awareness can improve lives.

In this insightful interview, Kathy Owens from the Public Health Agency Northern Ireland discusses the complex relationship between mental health, physical health, and stress. She highlights key societal factors, the impact of trauma, and practical strategies for managing stress and promoting well-being, especially during stressful periods like exams.

Today, Councillor Matthew Armstrong shares his insights on the mental health challenges faced by our communities. From housing issues to financial stress, he's seen firsthand how these factors intertwine and impact mental well-being. It's crucial to remember that behind every politician, there are real people experiencing real emotions. Mental health isn't just a buzzword; it's a daily reality for...

In this in-depth interview, Dr. Stephen Edwards shares his personal journey through trauma, mental health challenges, and healing. He discusses the impact of childhood experiences, the power of vulnerability, and the importance of understanding mental health as a spectrum, offering insights into overcoming toxic relationships and embracing authenticity.

In this insightful interview, Claire Sugden shares her journey from a young politician to a mental health advocate, discussing her personal experiences with anxiety, postnatal mental health, and the urgent need for better mental health services in Northern Ireland. Discover her perspectives on trauma, gendered experiences, and the importance of community support in fostering hope and change.