Free Mental Health Support Programmes Launch Across Ireland

Aware, the national mental health organisation, is opening registration for its comprehensive range of free education programmes on 1 September 2025, offering practical support for those living with depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder, as well as their families and supporters.

The programmes, available both online and in-person to anyone aged 18 or over living in Ireland, address common questions many people face: Why am I feeling so low? How can I stop feeling so anxious? How do I manage everyday pressures and unhelpful thoughts? Is it possible to live a full, connected life with bipolar disorder?

The flagship Aware Resilience Programme offers a six-week course grounded in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) techniques. Through 90-minute sessions in a supportive group setting, participants learn practical strategies to manage daily stresses, challenge unhelpful thought patterns, and develop effective coping mechanisms. Trained facilitators lead each session, ensuring the tools are accessible and applicable to everyday life.

For family members and friends supporting someone with depression or bipolar disorder, the four-week Family Support Programme provides crucial guidance. The course recognises that supporters need care too, offering practical approaches to provide effective help whilst maintaining their own mental wellbeing.

Those living with bipolar disorder can access the specialised eight-week Living Well With Bipolar Disorder programme, delivered by experienced mental health professionals. This educational course aims to help participants understand and manage their condition effectively, providing knowledge and tools to live well.

The organisation also offers an eight-week Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) programme in partnership with The Mindfulness Centre. Meeting for 2.5 hours weekly, this programme suits those experiencing depression, low mood, anxiety or stress. Research demonstrates that developing mindfulness significantly reduces anxiety and depression whilst improving stress management.

All programmes are completely free and designed to be practical and evidence-based, focusing on real-world application rather than theory alone.

Registration opens on 1 September 2025. To learn more or book your place, visit www.aware.ie/programmes.