Free Cork courses to aid mental health
Stephen O’Leary
Aware is urging the people of Cork to invest in their mental wellbeing in 2024 by offering a variety of free weekly programmes beginning in January.
A national organisation providing support, education, and information for people with mental health conditions, Aware has announced a range of practical programmes for people looking to develop life skills, people living with bipolar disorder, and for relatives and friends of loved ones living with bipolar disorder or depression.
Courses are free to attend, with a €30 booking deposit refundable on completion, and a reduced deposit for students, OAPs, the unemployed, and medical card holders. All programmes will commence on 29 January at Oriel House Hotel, Ballincollig, with online options also available.
The Life Skills Programme will take place over six weeks for a total of nine hours. Participants will learn how to cope more effectively with the stresses of everyday life, and identify and manage negative thought patterns. The course was specifically designed by cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) specialist, Dr Chris Williams, to teach people about how our thoughts influence actions in helpful and unhelpful ways, and ultimately to help them develop skills to live a healthier and more confident life.
An online version of the Life Skills Programme is also offered, where participants can choose the format, day, and time that best suits their needs. This option is self-directed, with participants completing the course under the guidance of an Aware ‘supporter’.
Aware’s Living Well With Bipolar Disorder Programme will be delivered in weekly workshop sessions over eight weeks. Each session will be 90 minutes, except for a two hour seventh session for which participants are invited to bring a supporter.
The course is designed for people diagnosed with bipolar disorder, aiming to help them better understand and effectively manage the condition. For six weeks of the programme a dedicated support & self care group will be present to assist in learning and provide support.
“Bipolar can be a very isolating illness and to feel connected to others going through similar experiences makes such a difference,” one person who has taken the course said.
The Relatives & Friends Programme will comprise of six hours of sessions over four weeks. A practical course, it is designed to enhance attendees’ understanding and support of their loved one who is experiencing depression or bipolar disorder, beginning with recognising the signs and symptoms. It will address the issues that arise for people who are supporting a loved one, including their own self-care, while equipping participants with necessary coping tools and communication skills.
“This course gave me permission to take time to care for myself. We were reminded of the importance of self-care so we can care for our loved ones without burn out,” said one participant.
The courses are available to anyone over 18, with online registration now open at www.aware.ie. Places are limited to ensure all attendees benefit from the sessions. The programmes are delivered in a workshop style that encourages participative learning. Opportunities for discussion will be provided, but participants will not be asked to share any information they do not wish to.
Aware undertakes to create a society where people affected by stress, depression, bipolar disorder, and mood related conditions are understood, supported, free from stigma, and are encouraged to access appropriate therapies. Other services they provide include support & self care groups, a support line and support mail service, both of which operate 365 days a year. For more information visit www.aware.ie.