Introduction: A nation wrestling with mental wellbeing
A new national survey by Mental Health Ireland sheds light on what helps and hinders mental wellbeing in Ireland. The study reveals that nearly one in five people take no steps at all each week to support their mental health, while time constraints, heavy screen use, and financial pressure stand out as the biggest barriers. Released as part of Mental Health Ireland’s 2025 Mental Health Month Campaign, the findings offer a snapshot of a country increasingly aware of mental health issues yet struggling to translate awareness into consistent action.
Key findings: Barriers that hold people back
The report identifies the top obstacles to mental wellbeing as:
- Lack of time – 36%
- Too much time spent on screens – 36%
- Financial pressure – 26%
- Not knowing how to improve mental health – 20%
These barriers cut across age groups but manifest differently. Older adults (over 55) are the least engaged, with about a quarter reporting they take no regular action to support their wellbeing. In contrast, younger adults (18–24) report fewer barriers overall, yet screen time remains a particular challenge, partly due to reliance on social media for mental health information. Income also shapes outcomes: lower-income households show higher rates of neglect (23.4%) compared with higher-income brackets (15.3%).
What people actually do to support mental wellbeing
Despite the hurdles, many Irish people still turn to proactive strategies. The most popular supports are:
- Exercise (58%)
- Time with friends and family (57%)
- Nature and green spaces (44%)
- Hobbies (41%)
- Mindfulness or meditation (20%)
Community remains a central pillar. Nearly 80% identify friends and family as their main support, and over 90% agree that spending time with the community benefits mental health. When facing difficulties, 70% turn to someone they know, while about one in four would seek help from a professional.
Expert insight: What the findings mean for policy and practice
Dr. Lisa Cuthbert, CEO of Mental Health Ireland, emphasizes that the survey highlights both the scale of the challenge and the opportunity to make wellbeing more accessible. “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 explains. “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 2025 Mental Health Month Campaign runs throughout October, delivering free events, workshops, and community activities nationwide. The emphasis is on promoting movement, connection, and mindfulness as practical pathways to mental wellbeing. By focusing on small, achievable steps and leveraging community networks, the campaign aims to remove barriers and empower individuals to take control of their mental health.
Takeaway: Turning awareness into action
The report confirms that while awareness of mental health issues is high, translating knowledge into action remains uneven. Practical steps—such as prioritizing time for self-care, setting boundaries around screen use, and building financial resilience—can make a meaningful difference. Importantly, the data underscore the value of community and connection as powerful drivers of wellbeing. When people feel supported by friends, family, and local networks, they are more likely to engage in healthier routines and seek help when needed.
Conclusion: A call for accessible, inclusive wellbeing
As Ireland navigates the pressures of modern life, the findings call for targeted efforts to reduce barriers to mental wellbeing. Public health initiatives, workplace supports, and community programs all have a role to play in helping people find practical ways to care for their minds. With Mental Health Month providing free, accessible resources, there is an opportunity to turn awareness into action and foster a society where mental wellbeing is a shared priority.
