Mental health problems in Northern Ireland are on the rise with 1 out of 4 of us experiencing a mental health issue each year and a staggering 60% increase in the number of adults diagnosed with depression in the last five years. Northern Ireland also has a 25% higher overall prevalence of mental health issues than England, with the highest rates of self-harming and suicides in the UK. It has been estimated that 4,400 people have taken their own lives between 1998-2016 in Northern Ireland, which is 800 more than the estimated number of people killed during the 30 years of conflict in our country. 

AWARE is the depression charity for Northern Ireland working for people with depression and bipolar disorder. AWARE has an established network of 24 support groups in rural and urban areas across the country, which are run by trained volunteers. Support groups welcome people with depression & bipolar disorder as well as carers for people with the illness. AWARE deliver mental health & well-being programmes into communities, schools, colleges, universities & workplaces across Northern Ireland.

Mental health charities such as AWARE are doing a brilliant job of ending the stigma that comes with mental health issues and encouraging those that are suffering to seek help. Any donations will help to ensure they can continue to carry out this work no matter how big or small. Please sponsor a couple of pounds to help those who are struggling to help themselves.

Thank you!