Schoolchildren dealing with stigma around mental health

Schoolchildren dealing with stigma around mental health

1 January 2019

A PLAY tackling the stigma associated with mental health issues is being performed to local schools.

Downpatrick, Rowallane and Slieve Croob District Electoral Areas joined forces with Action for Children to present the play ‘Overload’. 

Action for Children is a charity which supports and speaks out on behalf of vulnerable and neglected children and young people across the province.

The idea came about as local DEAs were keen to raise awareness of mental health issues and engage with local schools.

A local theatre company, Spanner in the Works, was commissioned to develop the play. 

It is envisaged that the play, which was developed specifically for schools, will be instrumental in tackling some of the key mental health issues such as stress, depression and self-harm that affect young people today.

Newry, Mourne and Down Council chairman Mark Murnin welcomed the initiative.

He said: “It is important we provide support mechanisms to young people suffering mental health issues to build resilience and eliminate the stigma associated with this issue.”

“I commend the DEAs in responding so effectively and meaningfully to this issue at a grass root level.’

A useful teacher resource pack has also been produced for participating schools.

It contains further information and useful contacts for pupils to access support, guidance and advice on a range of mental health topics.

To date, nine school performances have been delivered and it is anticipated that attendances will exceed one thousand.