Mental Health Ireland has teamed up with Iarnród Éireann to invite the nation to say Hello, and ask How Are You? with meaning this May 15th. Now in its third year, the national Hello, How Are You? campaign highlights the importance of staying connected, helps tackle loneliness, creates a sense of belonging and builds relationships. It also encourages early help-seeking through reliable information on mental health support services and signposting.
There are so many ways to slow down and genuinely engage with a family member, friend or even a stranger. You don’t need to be an expert to have a meaningful conversation. By using the HELLO Steps – i.e. H: Say Hello; E: Engage with the person; L: Listen to them; L: Learn about them and what they might be saying; O: Give them time to talk and to explore Options – you can feel supported in asking the question. Let’s make saying Hello and asking How Are You? an everyday question that keeps us connected.
On Wednesday, May 15th there will be Hello, How Are You? events and volunteers all over the country. From coffee mornings to fundraising challenges, there’s lots of ways for communities, schools and workplaces to get involved with the campaign this year.
Iarnród Éireann is again supporting the mental health campaign with Hello champions and volunteers at Heuston (Dublin), Cork (Kent), Limerick, Waterford and Galway (Ceannt) stations on May 15th and Iarnród Éireann Wellbeing Champions leading Hello events running across the country.
For free Hello resources, toolkits and all the information you need in different languages, head to www.hellohowareyou.info/resources
