‘Tech’ dramatackles issueof well-being

Beacon Wellbeing, which is a part of the Northern Ireland Association for Mental Health (Niamh) joined up with North West Regional College (NWRC) to deliver the unique drama project, which was entitled ‘Stamp out Stigma.’

It took place at the college’s Foyle Theatre.

Fergal Mellon, Project Worker, Beacon Wellbeing said: “Our aim in developing this project was to create a space for young people to become aware of and explore how some of the pressures they face can impact on their emotional and mental wellbeing. We also wanted to challenge the audience to reflect on the need to stamp out the stigma associated with mental ill health so as to send out a message to young people that it is okay to ask for help.”

Ann McGarrigle, Health, Welfare and Safeguarding Officer at North West Regional College said: “Within the College we work with students to highlight that mental health issues can affect people of all ages, at different stages in their lives, and that help is on hand should they need it while they are with us.

“We have been delighted to work with Beacon Wellbeing on this project, and believe the workshops, and the performance by our students will help their peers to reach out if they experience mental health or emotional challenges.”

If you would like to know more about the support services NWRC provides for students experiencing emotional or mental health difficulties please contact the Student Services Team on 028 7127 6045.

If you would like to know more about the more general support Beacon can provide to people of any age living in the North West area who are living with a mental health condition, you may like to visit: www.beaconwellbeing.org