GROW is Ireland’s largest community-based mental health organisation helping people on the road recovery since 1969. It holds over 120 peer-support group meetings nationwide every week.

All meetings are free and confidential and provide help and support to anyone experiencing mental health difficulties. GROW’s focus on breaking isolation and fostering connection is captured in their slogan, “You alone can do it, but you can’t do it on your own”.

In advance of World Mental Health Week 2018, CEO of GROW, Michele Kerrigan (above left), urged anyone experiencing mental health difficulties to seek help and support. “Positive mental and emotional health are vital to us all,” she stated. “Our mental wellbeing impacts every aspect of our lives – relationships, families, work, education, as well as our ability to cope and relate to others. Please remember that you are not alone. Help is available.”

A 2017 outcomes report on GROW’s recovery programme showed positive results. Over half of respondents had a personal goal they had achieved or were near to achieving, with many saying the support they received had helped them to deal with workplace issues, including a change of job/career.

Breaking isolation was rated by over half of the respondents as the biggest benefit of GROW meetings.

 To find out more about GROW and GROW meetings phone the 1890 474 474 infoline, visit grow.ie or email [email protected]