New Freely Accessible Support Group Brings Peer-Led Mental Health Support to Wexford
A new weekly resource for people seeking support with mental health challenges has launched in Wexford. Grow Mental Health is a free, peer-led group designed to provide a confidential space where adults can share experiences, learn coping strategies, and support one another on the path to better mental health. The program is open to anyone aged 18 or older and aims to reduce isolation by creating a welcoming, non-clinical environment.
Where and When: A Simple, Accessible Format
Grow Mental Health meets every Monday from 4:00 to 6:00 pm in the Shamrock Room at the Clonard Community Centre in Wexford Town. The in-person sessions are complemented by an online option as part of a nationwide rollout, ensuring that people who prefer remote participation can still access the group’s resources. Importantly, there are no referrals or waiting lists to join, and the group is completely free of charge.
A Peer-Led, Recovery-Focused Model
The program is built on a recovery model that emphasises the 12 Steps of Recovery and Growth. This structure helps participants take practical steps toward regaining control over their mental health and daily lives. Because Grow is peer-led, facilitators come from lived experience rather than a traditional clinical background, which many attendees find fosters a sense of trust and relatability. The aim is to empower people to share strategies, celebrate small wins, and support one another through ongoing challenges.
What to Expect at a Typical Session
Each meeting offers a safe, confidential space where attendees can introduce themselves, describe their current struggles, and discuss strategies that have helped in the past. Sessions are inclusive and non-judgmental, encouraging participants to voice concerns, ask questions, and offer encouragement. Practical topics may include stress management, sleep hygiene, coping with anxiety, managing depressive symptoms, and building healthier routines. While Grow Lighthouse emphasizes personal growth, the emphasis remains on peer support rather than professional therapy, making it accessible for people at various stages of their mental health journey.
Why This Initiative Matters for Wexford and Beyond
Local mental health resources are essential, especially in communities where access to clinical services may be limited. Grow Mental Health adds a complementary layer to the support landscape by offering a community-based option that operates with transparency, inclusivity, and free access. Since the group is part of a nationwide program, participants in Wexford can also connect with similar groups elsewhere, creating opportunities for shared learning and mutual encouragement across regions.
Community Endorsement and Future Plans
Independent Councillor Leonard Kelly spoke to South East Radio News about the announcement, highlighting the value of peer-led support in promoting resilience and reducing stigma around mental health. As the Grow Mental Health network grows, organizers hope to expand outreach, signpost to additional local services, and potentially increase session availability to accommodate more participants who may benefit from this approach.
Getting Involved
Anyone aged 18 or older who is seeking support, or who simply wants to learn from others’ experiences, is invited to attend. There is no need for prior registration, and first-time attendees can expect a welcoming, respectful atmosphere. Whether you are dealing with ongoing mental health challenges or seeking strategies to improve daily functioning, Grow Mental Health offers a practical, community-oriented option for recovery and personal growth.
