HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing HSE

In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast, host Fergal Fox and guest Elaine McCaughley from the HSE National Office for Human Rights and Equality discuss the HSE’s National Consent Policy. Elaine emphasises the policy's focus on the person making their own decisions about their health and social care, ensuring informed and voluntary consent. They explore challenges in mental health services and the role of family in cases like dementia, highlighting the human rights-based approach to care and the respect for individual autonomy and decision-making capacity.
If you would like to know more about Consent in the HSE go to: hse.ie/nationalconsentpolicy
If you would like to get in touch with the podcast or join the HSE Health and Wellbeing mailing list, email Healthandwellbeing.communications@hse.ie
 
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In this podcast Ailish O’Neill (National Education and Training Manager with the HSE National Office for Suicide Prevention) and Declan O’Shea (a Lived Experience Contributor) discuss the new, free online suicide prevention training programme from the HSE, ‘Let’s Talk About Suicide’.
 
'Let’s Talk about Suicide' is an introductory suicide prevention programme, that helps participants to identify others who might be at risk of suicide, confidently ask about the topic, and connect them with resources that can help them stay safe.
 
It is hoped that ‘Let’s Talk About Suicide’ will help people develop their language and confidence around talking about suicide, and not to be afraid to discuss it openly. In this podcast Ailish and Declan discuss the importance of breaking the stigma associated with suicide, and how people can sometimes be afraid to talk about suicide, because of the sadness and trauma around the subject. Sometimes, people are afraid to say the word ‘suicide’. But by being truly present for a person, and by hearing and validating their feelings, we all have the potential to have a life-saving conversation with someone. Ailish and Declan talk about recognising signs of distress, the importance of clear questioning, and the power of validation and support. The conversation highlights the need for ongoing dialogue about suicide, the power of listening, the effectiveness of support services, and the new programmes role in suicide prevention. Listeners are encouraged to complete the new training programme, and share the episode to help spread awareness.
 
‘Let’s Talk About’ uses a mix of guided online content, video and interactive questions. You can start and stop the programme at you own convenience. On average, the programme will take 60 minutes to complete, but you can work at your own pace.
·         To enrol and complete Let’s Talk About Suicide, visit https://traininghub.nosp.ie/
·         Let's Talk About Suicide is suitable for anyone over the age of 18, who wants to learn basic suicide prevention skills.
·         It is recommended that anyone recently bereaved, wait 12 months before engaging in this type of suicide prevention training.
 
If you, or someone you know needs support, visit the HSE site www.yourmentalhealth.ie for information on how to mind your mental health, support others, or to find a support service in your area.
 
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In this podcast episode, Noreen Turley talks to Paula Leonard, CEO of Alcohol Forum Ireland. Alcohol Forum Ireland is a charity that originated to address the hidden harm caused by parental problematic alcohol use and addiction. Paula explains that their mission is to work collaboratively with stakeholders such as HSE, An Garda Síochána, Drug and Alcohol Task Forces and communities to tackle the complexities of alcohol use and its impact on families. Alcohol Forum Ireland's approach, from community action on alcohol to family support and rehabilitation services, offers hope and a path to recovery for many. They advocate for the most effective policy measures and support services to reduce alcohol harm, empower families and communities, and reduce the influence of the alcohol industry on the environment in which we live.
For further information and supports visit www.hse.ie/alcohol or call the HSE Drugs and Alcohol Helpline on 1800 459 459.
 
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In this podcast episode, host Eamon Keogh and HSE Clinical Specialist Physiotherapist Susan Murphy discuss low back pain, its types, and management strategies. Susan explains the difference between acute and persistent low back pain, the commonality of the condition in Ireland, and the impact of lifestyle factors on low back pain. Susan talks about sciatica, the importance of exercise for back strength and flexibility, and when to seek medical advice. She also discusses the different free resources available from the HSE, in particular two booklets that have been developed to help people understand more about acute and long term back pain. Susan highlights the role of physiotherapy and psychological support in treatment. The conversation aims to empower individuals with knowledge and tools to manage their low back pain effectively.
 
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In this podcast episode, Seán Cooke of the Men's Development Network discusses the organisation's initiatives to improve men's health and wellbeing. He outlines the Engage consortium's role in creating training programs like "Connecting with Young Men" and "On Feirm Ground," which focusses on the agricultural sector and their role in supporting Men’s Health Week. Seán emphasises the importance of non-judgmental, safe spaces for male-friendly conversations and the Network's efforts in gender equality and in addressing domestic violence. The success of these programmes and their impact on policy and education are highlighted, with an invitation for listeners to visit the Network's website for more resources: https://mensnetwork.ie/  
 
To get in touch with the podcast email Healthandwellbeing.communications@hse.ie
 
 
Produced by GKMedia.ie

In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast, we talk to Dr. Michael O'Dwyer and Aisling O’Rourke about sepsis, a critical health issue. Aisling shares the heart-wrenching story of her father's battle with sepsis, emphasising the need for awareness and timely recognition of its symptoms. Dr. O'Dwyer, the HSE Sepsis Programme's Clinical Lead, educates listeners on the dangers of sepsis and the urgency of early intervention, particularly for at-risk groups. The episode serves as a poignant reminder of the role caregivers play in patient advocacy and the life-saving importance of asking, "Could this be sepsis?". For further information go to: https://www2.hse.ie/conditions/sepsis/
 
Produced by GKMedia.ie