Introduction: A nation grappling with mental wellbeing
A new national survey by Mental Health Ireland sheds light on the everyday realities that shape mental wellbeing across Ireland. As Mental Health Month unfolds in October, the findings reveal a paradox: while a majority are taking deliberate steps to protect their mental health, a sizeable minority are doing little or nothing at all. Time, screen use, and financial pressure emerge as the most significant barriers facing ordinary people in their pursuit of better mental health.
The key findings: Time, screens and money take a toll
The survey shows that more than 80% of respondents report taking intentional steps each week to support their mental health. Yet 19% say they do nothing at all, and a further 42% manage only one or two days of action weekly. This gap highlights the daily challenges many face in prioritising self-care.
Two of the most striking barriers are lack of time and excessive screen time, each cited by 36% of respondents as obstructing their wellbeing. Financial pressure follows closely at 26%, with lower-income households more likely to report neglect of mental health (23.4%) than those in higher-income brackets (15.3%).
Age plays a role in how barriers are experienced. Older adults (55+) are the least engaged, with about one in four in this group saying they take no regular action to support their wellbeing. Younger adults (18–24) report fewer barriers overall, but still identify screen time as a major challenge, particularly as many turn to social media for mental health information.
What people do to support their mental health
Despite barriers, people find strength in connection and routine. The report highlights several popular supports: exercise (58%), time with friends and family (57%), time in nature (44%), hobbies (41%), and mindfulness or meditation (20%). These activities illustrate that practical, everyday actions can make a meaningful difference, even amid time constraints and digital distractions.
Community remains a powerful theme. Nearly 80% say that friends and family are their main source of support, and over 90% agree that spending time with their community benefits mental health. When facing struggles, 70% turn to someone they know, while about 25% would seek help from a professional.
Voices from leadership: A call to action
Dr. Lisa Cuthbert, CEO of Mental Health Ireland, interprets the findings as a mandate to remove barriers and create accessible pathways to wellbeing. “The survey shows that one in five of us aren’t sure how to improve our mental health, while many face barriers such as lack of time, financial strain, or constant digital distractions,” she said. “During Mental Health Month, we want to create space for open conversations and raise awareness — to share tools, resources and celebrate the power of community and connection. Mental health thrives on support and awareness. By making small changes and supporting each other, we can create a society where mental wellbeing is a shared priority.”
What Mental Health Month offers
The month-long campaign, running throughout October, features free events, workshops and community activities nationwide. The focus is practical: promote movement, nurture connection, and encourage mindfulness. By translating insights into accessible actions, the campaign aims to shift the culture around mental wellbeing from private concern to public priority.
Practical steps for individuals and communities
Individuals can start with small, achievable changes that fit their rhythms: scheduling short movement breaks, setting screen-time boundaries, and identifying one trusted person to talk to when stress rises. For communities, investing in local supports—group activities, nature-based programs, and affordable mental health resources—can reduce barriers at a systemic level. The report reinforces that wellbeing is not just an individual effort but a collective enterprise requiring encouragement, time, and financial clarity.
Conclusion: A path forward rooted in connection
The Ireland-wide findings illuminate a landscape where stress and digital demands collide with time scarcity and financial pressure. Yet the resilience of communities, the prevalence of supportive networks, and the availability of practical tools offer a hopeful pathway. By making wellbeing a shared priority and removing hurdles to access, Ireland can translate awareness into action—and healthier lives.
