The annual Kerry Mental Health and Well-being Festival for 2024 will take place from October 5 to 12 when a wide range of events are scheduled for across the county. ‘The Fest’ is a fun and interactive way of raising awareness of the available supports and services in the county. Moreover, its primary purpose is to promote the range of services that can empower people by helping them to engage with the ‘Five Ways to Well-being’ through offering a dynamic and interactive programme of events. The Kerry Mental Health and Well-being Fest is held annually over the course of a week to highlight World Mental Health Day on 10 October.
Some of the events will include talks and workshops on aspects like grief, parenting, team building, mental health first aid, personal care and well-being, menopause, gardening, and exercise, to name a few. For full listings, visit https://kerrymentalhealthandwellbeingfest.com/.../kerry
Free Events for Kids and Families
As part of Kerry Mental Health and Well-being Festival, Castleisland Family Resource Centre will run an anxiety workshop for children aged between eight and 12. Now in its third year, Don’t Worry, Be Happy will take place on Wednesday, October 9th from 3:15pm to 4:45pm. The workshop will include storytelling, art and relaxation techniques. Places are limited and booking is available on: https://kerrymentalhealthandwellbeingfest.com/ For further details please contact: 087 7553066.
Fun Reading Club
The Fun Reading Club is for children in third class. The book club is run in association with Castleisland Library, which chooses the book for each session. The group meets from 3:15 to 4pm once a month and on the third Wednesday of the month, between October and March and discuss the latest book. For further details on either event please contact Liz on: 087 7553066.
Human Chain Challenge on Strickeen Mountain
Registrations are open to take part in Kerry Mental Health Associations human chain challenge. Last year nearly 200 people took part in the fundraiser on Strickeen Mountain in the Gap of Dunloe near Killarney. The event returns to Strickeen n this weekend as part of the Kerry Mental Health & Wellbeing Fest. The All-Ireland winning Kerry Ladies Footballers will lead the challenge, and community groups from across the county are invited to participate.
The human chain challenge takes place on Sunday October 6th and registration in advance is necessary. [To register for FREE for the Human Chain Challenge visit Human Chain Challenge On Strickeen Mountain - Kerry Mental Health & Wellbeing Fest (kerrymentalhealthandwellbeingfest.com).](Human Chain Challenge On Strickeen Mountain - Kerry Mental Health & Wellbeing Fest (kerrymentalhealthandwellbeingfest.com)) [As the land is privately owned, advance registration is necessary at Human Chain Challenge On Strickeen Mountain - Kerry Mental Health & Wellbeing Fest](Human Chain Challenge On Strickeen Mountain - Kerry Mental Health & Wellbeing Fest)
Every walker will receive a FREE bright KMHA-branded bandana to be worn for the Official Human Chain Challenge Drone picture which will be taken at the first stage of the ascent. The registered walkers will need to wear appropriate clothing and footwear, children must be accompanied by responsible adults and dogs are not permitted. Car-pooling is also recommended as limited parking spaces will be available. Kerry Mental Health Association supports the Leave No Trace campaign and will be encouraging all participants to leave Strickeen Mountain in the spotless condition that they found it.
The Human Chain Challenge at Strickeen on Sunday 6th October will be preceded by the annual #TieDayFriday Fundraising event on Friday 4th October – both taking place to coincide with World Mental Health Day on 10th October.
A Week of Activities for Everyone
The Kerry Mental Health and Well-being Fest is a fantastic opportunity for the people of Kerry to come together and support each other's mental health and wellbeing. With events and activities for all ages and interests, there's something for everyone. From workshops on grief and parenting to fun activities for kids and families, the Fest aims to create a positive and supportive atmosphere. It is a great way to learn about the resources available in the community and to connect with others who are passionate about mental health and wellbeing. The Kerry Mental Health and Well-being Fest is a wonderful example of the community coming together to support each other and build a more resilient and supportive society. So, mark your calendars and get ready to celebrate mental health in Kerry!
Get Involved and Make a Difference
Whether you are interested in attending events, volunteering, or making a donation, there are many ways to get involved in the Kerry Mental Health and Well-being Fest. By supporting this initiative, you can help to raise awareness of mental health issues and promote the importance of seeking help when needed. Remember, you are not alone. There are many resources available to support you, and the Kerry Mental Health and Well-being Fest is a testament to the community's commitment to mental health and well-being.
