Spotlight on Ballyphehane Men’s Shed

This month we are shining the spotlight on one of our community partners, the Ballyphehane Men’s shed, which is located on the grounds of our centre. The Ballyphehane Men’s Shed is a home from home for many men that offers social support, a sense of purpose and belonging.

A primary objective of the Men’s Shed is to enhance the wellbeing of men in our local community, in a holistic manner encompassing physical, mental, social and spiritual health.

The main focus of its weekly activities is around finding meaning and purpose, where a friend is always there. On a more practical note, members engage in a variety of activities including making and repair of small furniture, making flower boxes, planter boxes, and bird boxes.

Speaking on the important role the Men’s Shed plays in the community John Kelleher, Treasurer, commented “Our shed is a dedicated and welcoming meeting place, where men of all ages come together to talk and connect with others to share information and skills in a safe and friendly environment. It fosters a culture of active participation in hobbies, crafts and creativity”.

There is no doubt that the Ballyphehane Men’s Shed encourages and supports all the members, enabling each individual to take responsibility and ownership for their projects and possibilities. It provides a valuable service to the community and we are delighted to support it.

For more information on the Ballyphehane Men’s Shed contact John Kelleher today.

Will you play your part with Movember?

Today is the start of Movember, an annual event involving the growing of moustaches during the month of November to raise awareness of men’s health issues, such as prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and men’s suicide. Globally, men die on average six years earlier than women, and for reasons that are largely preventable. Which means that it doesn’t have to be that.

Movember, an international organisation, is taking on men’s health globally. It unites

unite experts from around the world to collaborate on projects that will fundamentally change the way men in need are treated and supported.

Since 2003, Movember has funded more than 1,250 men’s health projects around the world, challenging the status quo, shaking up men’s health research and transforming the way health services reach and support men.

Ballyphehane Community Association is proud to support this cause and encourage active discussion around men’s health with our service users and community partners. It is important that we all are aware of the challenges, be there if a friend or family member needs to talk, or to raise funds to continue the research and provision of support.

If you would like to learn more about how you can get involved with Movember, visit the organisation’s website today.

Simple steps to look after your mental health

October 10^th is World Mental Health day and at Ballyphehane Community Association we are very aware of the important role our mental health plays on our daily lives. Positive mental health contributes to your overall wellbeing and is experienced when you can realise your own abilities, cope with the normal stresses of life, work productively and fruitfully, and contribute to your community.

According to Mental Health Ireland and the New Economics Foundation, there are several actions we can take on a daily basis to help maintain and improve our mental health.

Connect

Make time each day to connect with the people around you; with family, friends, colleagues, and neighbours. By staying connected and nurturing these relationships we feel happier and more secure, giving us a better sense of purpose.

Be Active

Look for ways to be active every day. Discover a physical activity you enjoy which suits your lifestyle and level of mobility and fitness. Research has shown being physically active can improve your mental health and wellbeing.

Take Notice

Be aware of the world around you and what you are feeling. Catch sight of the beautiful. Notice the changing seasons. Savour the moment whether you are walking to work, eating lunch, or talking to friends.

Keep Learning

Try something new or rediscover an old interest. Setting yourself a new challenge and learning a new skill will increase your confidence which can improve your mental health and wellbeing.

Give

Giving to others is good for you even if it is a simple thank you. Volunteer your time or join a community group. See yourself and your happiness linked to the wider community can be incredibly rewarding and create connectedness with the people around you.

Health & Wellbeing plays an important role with our teams and local community. If you would like to learn more about our Health & Wellbeing services, contact us today.