Call on HSE to provide dedicated mental health supports to under-15 age group in Mayo
A Mayo TD has raised concerns about the lack of supports for people under 15 in Mayo who are experiencing extreme disruption to their daily lives during the pandemic.
Deputy Alan Dillon highlighted the matter to the Minister of State for Mental Health and Older People Mary Butler.
He praised the work of two organisations — Mindspace Mayo and Mayo Mental Health Association — who provide significant support to people in a relatively wide range of age groups.
He stated: “Mindspace Mayo provides support to those between 15 and 25 and it has hubs in Castlebar and outreach services in Ballina and Erris.
“However, I am particularly concerned about the supports for people under 15 because there seems to be no organisation in Mayo catering for them specifically.
"They are experiencing extreme disruption in their daily lives.
“Normal supports, such as school and friends, are not available during the current restrictions.
"Jigsaw provides services to youths from 12 years of age but it is based in Galway and Roscommon.
“I would be grateful, therefore, if a dedicated service for youths between 12 and 15 could be established in Mayo.”
Deputy Dillon said he recently received a copy of the HSE psychosocial response to the Covid-19 Pandemic.
“It is certainly a well-thought-out document. It identifies the needs of various segments of society and the proposed action points.
“It also highlights specific relationships that we can all develop to keep us well and to stay well.
"It provides an overview of the seriousness of the mental health impact that the pandemic has had on Irish society.
“The document highlights children and adolescents as comprising a priority group that requires particular consideration,” he stated.
However, gaps remain in services for under-15s in Mayo, he pointed out.
Minister Butler said the pandemic has been very challenging, and some people are finding it more difficult than others.
“Financial and employment worries have caused anxiety and the disease itself has caused significant stress.
"This has been exacerbated, in many cases, by isolation and bereavement.
"While the government’s overall focus is on reducing Covid numbers and ensuring the safe and effective roll-out of the vaccine, our citizens’ mental health needs, particularly for those already vulnerable to or with existing mental health difficulties, remain a priority.
“While we do not yet fully understand the impact of Covid-19 on mental health and any subsequent demand on services, it is acknowledged that there have been increased presentations in certain areas, especially in first episode psychosis and eating disorders.
"I am particularly concerned about the rise in eating disorders among girls and young women.”