Turn2Me, Ireland’s national mental health charity, is urging people who find Christmas difficult to make use of its free online services.
The festive season, often painted as a joyful time, can bring significant stress, anxiety, and loneliness for many.
The charity said that with pressures ranging from financial worries to social obligations, the need for accessible mental health support has never been greater.
Adults living in Ireland can access the charity’s services by visiting Turn2Me.ie, which is easy to use, completely confidential, and available to anyone over the age of 18.
These free services include up to six free counselling sessions, unlimited free support groups, a free meditation programme and a free “thought catcher” online mood diary.
Mental health
Turn2Me provides free, professional mental health services online, including counselling sessions, support groups, and helpful tools like guided meditations and mood tracking.
These services are available to anyone in Ireland, offering a lifeline to those who may feel overwhelmed by the holiday season.
Turn2Me’s services can help people develop strategies to manage financial stress and navigate these challenges without compromising their mental well-being.
For some, Christmas can be an isolating time for those who are away from loved ones or who feel disconnected from festive celebrations.
Turn2Me offers a range of services, including online support groups, where people can connect with others facing similar challenges and feel less alone during the season.
As the darker days can heighten sadness, anxiety and depression, the charity’s professional counsellors can help individuals develop coping mechanisms to manage these feelings and work towards a healthier, more balanced mindset.
The services can offer practical advice and support on work-life balance to help people maintain equilibrium, reduce stress, and prioritise their mental health.
Christmas
The charity’s free counselling sessions also provide a safe space to talk through family tensions which may arise during Christmas, helping individuals set boundaries and manage emotions effectively.
Fiona O’Malley, chief executive of Turn2Me, said that Christmas can be a challenging time for many, “particularly when expectations clash with reality”.
“The financial strain, social pressure, and even loneliness that often come with the festive season can take a toll on mental health.
“That’s why we’re encouraging people living in Ireland to make use of Turn2Me’s free, accessible mental health services. There’s no need to face these challenges alone—we’re here to help,” she said.
If you feel you are at immediate risk of harming yourself or someone else please contact emergency services on 999 or 112 right away.
For other support services, you can contact the following:
- Pieta: Call free on 1800 247 247 or Text ‘Help’ to 51444;
- Samaritans: Call free on 116 123;
- Childline (for those under 18): Call free on 1800 666 666 or Text ‘Help’ to 50101.
- Make the Moove: 086 084 0442 – will remain operational throughout the festive period, offering support between 9:00a.m and 9:00p.m each day from December 23 to January 1.