The mental health support organisation Turn2Me says the double bank holiday is expected to bring high levels of social anxiety.
The holiday will be the first occasion of extended celebrations where all restrictions have lifted across the country.
As well as the levels of social anxiety, Turn2Me has stated that the rising cases of Covid-19 may make some people feel more on edge.
The Charity advises people to act to mitigate the risk of getting Covid or passing it onto loved ones and reducing this associated anxiety.
Turn2Me suggests to wear a mask and to keep social circles smaller.
The organisation reported a 368% increase in people seeking support for their mental health at the height of the pandemic.
Anxiety, relationship issues and depression were the most common issues reported.
Turn2Me emphasised that most social interactions can be quite positive and something to look forward to but there are also stresses that can come with social engagements.
The advice is if you feel overwhelmed, go home early, reduce your alcohol intake, and don’t socially exhaust yourself.
Turn2Me is encouraging people to sign up for their free support groups in anxiety, depression, grief and relationship issues. For more information, go to Turn2Me.ie
Need help? If you are affected by any of the issues raised in this article or would like to access support or information, please see the links below to valuable resources:
- Pieta House Tel: 1800 247 247 or text Help to 51444 (pieta.ie)
- Aware – Tel: 1800 80 48 48 (aware.ie)
- The Samaritans – Tel: 116 123 or email [email protected] (samaritans.ie)
- Text 50808 – Text Hello to 50808 (text50808.ie)
- Mental Health Ireland (mentalhealhireland.ie)
- Jigsaw (jigsaw.ie)
