The Let’s Talk and Walk forest walks kick-off tomorrow, May 1, which are aimed at encouraging people to take time out, go for a walk and talk about mental health problems.
Five forest walks are have been organised around the country by IFA in association with See Change, Coillte and Mental Health Ireland this May.
The walks are part of the month-long national Green Ribbon Campaign organised by See Change to get people talking openly about mental health problems and to break the stigma of silence associated with mental health.
IFA Farm Family Chairperson Maura Canning says the walks are a great chance to take time out in beautiful surrounds, on your own, or together with friends and family.
“This is the fourth year the IFA has organised the walks and they have proved extremely popular each year.”
Everybody knows somebody who has been affected by mental health problems, and people really want to support the Green Ribbon campaign.
“The walks, particularly the cup of tea and chat afterwards, are a very enjoyable way to do that. It is a lovely family day out with walks and activities to suit all ages.”
The Let’s Talk and Walk will take place in the following locations during May:
- Sunday, May 1, 3.00pm Coillte Forest Park, Portumna, Co. Galway.
- Sunday, May 8, 3.00pm Coillte Forest Park Avondale, Rathdrum, Co. Wicklow.
- Sunday, May 15, 3.00pm OPW Forest Park, Doneraile, Co. Cork.
- Thursday, May 19, 7.30pm Lough Muckno Forest Park, Co. Monaghan.
- Sunday, May 22, 3.00pm Coillte Forest Park, Ards, Co. Donegal.
Orla Barry, CEO Mental Health Ireland, said that the Let’s Talk and Walk series of walks is an opportunity for friends, families and communities to connect while being mindful of our own and others’ mental health and wellbeing.
“We are delighted to partner with the IFA, See Change and Coillte on these unique community walks and look forward to seeing everyone at the locations.”
Ciaran Fallon, Director of Stewardship and Public Goods at Coillte said that as Ireland’s largest provider of outdoor recreation, Coillte is delighted to support this initiative and promote positive mental health by hosting the walks.
“I would encourage everyone to get out and involved and experience the peaceful and beautiful surrounds of our forest parks and trails and we’d love to see you back walking Coilte’s tracks and trails more regularly.”