Ireland’s Quiet Crisis: Barriers to Mental Wellbeing in a Busy Nation
A new national survey from Mental Health Ireland shines a light on the everyday hurdles that hinder mental wellbeing across Ireland. The report, released as part of Mental Health Month 2025, reveals that nearly one in five people do nothing each week to support their mental health. The findings underscore a broader pattern: time constraints, heavy screen use, and financial pressure are the leading barriers hampering emotional and psychological wellbeing.
What the Numbers Tell Us
While a strong majority—more than 80%—report taking some intentional steps weekly to safeguard their mental health, a troubling 19% do nothing at all, and another 42% only manage one or two days of mental health activity per week. These figures illuminate a gap between awareness and action, suggesting that knowledge alone is not enough to foster consistent self-care.
Demographic Variations: Who Is Most and Least Engaged?
The survey highlights clear demographic differences. Older adults (over 55) are the least engaged, with about a quarter (25.5%) reporting no regular action to support their wellbeing. In contrast, younger adults aged 18–24 show fewer barriers overall, but identify screen time as a major challenge. For many in this cohort, social media serves as a primary or easily accessible source of mental health information, which can be a double-edged sword if not navigated mindfully.
Key Barriers to Mental Wellbeing
Respondents identified the top obstacles to maintaining mental health as follows:
- Lack of time: 36%
- Too much time spent on screens: 36%
- Financial pressure: 26%
- Not knowing how to improve mental health: 20%
These barriers interact. A busy schedule can push mental health to the bottom of the priority list, while excessive screen time can disrupt sleep, reduce physical activity, and amplify stress. Financial worries compound these effects, limiting access to services, respite, or wellness activities that could alleviate tension and build resilience.
<h2 The Power of Connection and Simple Supports
Despite its challenges, the report emphasizes that many people still turn to supportive, low-cost strategies. The most popular mental health supports are:
- Exercise (58%)
- Spending time with friends and family (57%)
- Time in nature (44%)
- Hobbies (41%)
- Mindfulness or meditation (20%)
Community also plays a pivotal role. Almost 80% identify friends and family as their main source of support, and over 90% agree that spending time with community benefits mental health. When people face struggles, 70% turn to someone they know, while about one in four would seek professional help. This dual trend—personal networks and professional pathways—suggests a balanced approach to wellbeing is both feasible and effective.
<h2 A Call for Action: Removing Barriers
Dr. Lisa Cuthbert, CEO of Mental Health Ireland, reframes the findings as a call to action. She notes that one in five people aren’t sure how to improve their mental health, while many struggle with time, money, and digital distractions. The message: remove barriers and expand accessible pathways to wellbeing.
During Mental Health Month in October, Mental Health Ireland aims to foster open conversations, share practical tools and resources, and celebrate the role of community. Small, achievable changes—such as scheduling a weekly walk, setting screen-time limits, or coordinating a social activity with friends—can collectively shift a nation toward better mental health outcomes.
What This Means for Policy and Everyday Life
Addressing time constraints may involve flexible work arrangements and community-supported wellness programs. Tackling financial stress could include affordable, community-based mental health resources and outreach. Reducing screen time requires practical strategies, including digital literacy about reliable mental health information and structured digital breaks. Above all, the report underscores that mental wellbeing thrives on connection—families, friends, and neighbors playing active roles in each other’s lives.
Events, Resources and the Road Ahead
Mental Health Month’s campaign will feature free events, workshops, and activities across Ireland aimed at promoting movement, connection, and mindfulness. The hope is clear: when Ireland improves access to practical wellbeing tools and strengthens community ties, mental health becomes a shared priority rather than an individual burden.
