Main pic: L-R: Brendan Devenney (MC), Shane Carthy, Ronan McNamee and Oisin McConville at the ‘Heads Up’ event.
Sean MacCumhaills GAA Club hosted a hugely successful event last weekend which focused on mental health awareness and wellbeing.
The ‘Heads Up’ night was held in Jackson’s Hotel on Friday and was attended by almost 200 people. The club said it wished to shine a light on some of the most prevalent mental health issues in our communities, including depression, gambling, and other addictions, as well as low self-esteem.
The event featured a number of high-profile speakers, including Shane Carthy, Oisin McConville, Ronan McNamee, Katy Herron, Jamesie Donnelly and Kevin Mills. MC for the night was former Donegal GAA star, Brendan Devenney.
Speakers at the MacCumhaill’s ‘Heads Up’ event.
Shane Carty, ex Dublin player, Pieta House ambassador and author, spoke first about his struggles with depression and how this impacted his life.
He was followed by former Tyrone player, All Star and Pieta House ambassador, Ronan McNamee, who also discussed his struggles with depression. The Aghyaran clubman told the captivated audience how Mickey Harte was a massive aid in his recovery.
Eugene Duffy, Suicide Crisis Assessment Nurse (SCAN), spoke about symptoms of depression and suicidal thoughts. He also talked about what his job entails as well as some of the supports available to those who may be in difficulty, and their families and friends.
Former Armagh star and GAA pundit, Oisin McConville (R), alongside Ronan McNamee at the ‘Heads Up’ event.
Kevin Mills, Donegal U20 Mentor and SafeTALK facilitator, spoke about his experience working with communities in the county affected by suicide and encouraged clubs to avail of SafeTalk, free suicide awareness training.
Katy Herron, Donegal LGFA star and advocate for women in sport, spoke about challenges she faced in her career and was described as a huge inspiration to any women in the audience.
Andrea McGarvey from the Donegal Addiction service gave a talk about referral pathways to the addiction service and supports available to families.
Oisin McConville, former Armagh star and GAA pundit, spoke openly about his gambling addiction and his ongoing recovery journey from it.
Former Donegal hurling star, and MacCumhaills clubman, Jamsie Donnelly, stressed the importance of peer support and asking for help.
MacCumhaills’ Health and Wellbeing Officer, Carol McCann, closed the event by encouraging attendees to “not let a fantastic night go in vain and to encourage the conversation about mental health.”
MacCumhaill’s Health and Wellbeing Officer, Carol McCann, speaking at the ‘Heads Up’ event.