HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing

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 Produced by GKMedia.ie

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. Produced by GKMedia.ie

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. Produced by GKMedia.ie

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. Produced by GKMedia.ie

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

In this podcast episode, Martin Davoren, Executive Director of the Sexual Health Centre discusses sexual health in the context of the Centre’s evolution, services, and new developments in the area. During this discussion, Martin outlines why sexual health is such an important part of a person’s health and wellbeing and how this area has seen significant innovation in recent years with the development of the Free Home STI Testing Service, Free Contraception, and many other services and supports. He highlights collaborations by the Sexual Health Centre with various agencies to improve sexual health services in Cork. The centre's efforts to normalise conversations around sexual health and reduce stigma are commendable, as they work tirelessly to make sexual health a regular topic of discussion. Hosted by Fergal Fox, this episode makes for an interesting and engaging conversation. You can find more information about the work of the Sexual Health Centre at www.sexualhealthcentre.com and you can access the HSE supports and services at www.sexualwellbeing.ie Produced by GKMedia.ie

In this podcast episode, Geraldine Sexton, a HSE Senior Project Dietitian, from the HSE Healthy Eating Active Living Programme, talks about the importance of having a healthy gut. She encourages us to think about how to expand our plant based diet, with tips and tricks for young and old people who may not like plant foods. Geraldine also addresses common misconceptions about our digestive health. Finally talking about how Gut Health can play a significant role in our mental health. To get in touch with the podcast email Healthandwellbeing.communications@hse.ie Produced by GKMedia.ie

In this podcast episode, Dr. Colin O'Driscoll, Clinical Lead Psychosocial Services, and Eleanor Keogh, Project Worker, both with the Mid-West Alcohol Service, discuss the HSE Integrated Alcohol Service. They tell us that this service works with community agencies to offer personalised support for those with alcohol concerns, ranging from mild to severe. They provide assessments and support for individuals and their families, highlighting that help is available for anyone struggling with alcohol use. In this episode, we discuss the high level of alcohol consumption in Ireland, emphasising the service's collaborative, non-judgmental approach and stress the importance of early intervention and community awareness to combat stigma. For further information and supports visit www.hse.ie/alcohol or call the HSE Drugs and Alcohol Helpline on 1800 459 459 Produced by GKMedia.ie

In this episode of the HSE's Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast, Dr. Heather Burns discusses the importance of symptom awareness and early detection of cancer. Dr. Burns is a Consultant in Public Health Medicine and Public Health Lead for Early Detection of Cancer with the HSE National Cancer Control Programme. She notes that cancer is common in Ireland, with 1 in 2 people having a cancer diagnosis in their lifetime. Dr. Burns urges people to contact their GP if they notice any symptoms that are not normal for them and are not getting better, like a persistent cough, a change in bowel habit, a breast lump or unexplained weight loss. The episode covers the role of GPs in cancer referrals and the availability of rapid access clinics, emphasising the importance of education and proactive healthcare for early diagnosis. If you would like to know more about the issues discussed please go to the NCCP website. If you would like to order the resources discussed to help spread the messages around early diagnoses go to www.healthpromotion.ie and select ‘cancer’ in the search by topic option. Produced by GKMedia.ie

In our latest episode, host Fergal Fox speaks to Bernard Gloster, CEO of the HSE, about the developments, as well as challenges, in Ireland's health service. They discuss the work underway in the HSE to promote health and wellbeing under the Health Services Healthy Ireland Implementation Plan. Bernard shares an update on his strategic priorities and reflects on 12 months in the job as CEO as he emphasises the importance of maintaining a shared vision and a positive culture to drive improvements with the patient or service user always to the fore in planning and delivery of health services. He discusses his own quit smoking journey and how the HSE QUIT campaign continues to work towards a Tobacco Free Ireland. He gives an update on the imminent changes and restructuring of the HSE and the six new regional Chief Officers. Full video is available on the HSE Health and Wellbeing YouTube Channel: Produced by GKMedia.ie

In this podcast episode, host Noreen Turley engages in a candid discussion on menopause with two esteemed women's health experts, Dr. Cliona Murphy, a Gynaecologist and Clinical Director at the National Women & Infants Health Programme, and Dr. Caoimhe Hartley, a General Practitioner and Clinical Lead of the Complex Menopause Clinic at Rotunda Hospital. It becomes clear quite quickly that the menopause journey is deeply personal yet universally relevant, with experiences varying among women. The conversation explores a range of symptoms and treatment options, including an examination of the benefits and risks associated with Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). Both experts stress the importance of seeking medical guidance early, particularly if one's quality of life is being impacted. They advocate for early intervention, education, and open dialogue surrounding menopause, which can relieve anxieties and empower women to seek assistance. This proactive approach fosters a more informed and supportive environment for managing menopausal symptoms ultimately promoting womens overall health and wellbeing. For more information visit https://www2.hse.ie/conditions/menopause/ or https://rotunda.ie/menopause-clinic/ Produced by GKMedia.ie

In this podcast episode we speak with Emer Loughrey, Counsellor and Dr Monica Whyte, Systemic Family Therapist, who work together in Youth Drug and Alcohol (YoDA), a service within HSE Addiction service that work with young people engaged in problematic drug or alcohol use whilst supporting their families. In this episode, they discuss the critical topic of substance use among young people, with a focus on the services provided by YoDA service in Tallaght, Dublin. They shed light on the prevalent substances among youth today, such as cannabis, nitrous oxide, and alcohol, and the impacts these substances can have on their lives. One key takeaway from this episode is the importance of early detection of substance abuse, as indicated by subtle signs like mood changes or a decline in academic performance. Emma and Dr Whyte stress the importance of open communication with young people, especially during the transition from primary to secondary school, and emphasise the vital role of maintaining strong family connections and communication. The multidisciplinary approach of YoDA is highlighted, showcasing their comprehensive support system for young individuals, which encompasses addressing family dynamics and peer pressure. For concerned parents seeking support options, they offer resources available through https://drugs.ie/ Produced by GKMedia.ie

In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast, we discuss the Sláintecare Healthy Community initiative in Dublin's North East Inner City with guests Catherine Heaney and Cáit Donnelly. They explore the recent evaluation report and the importance of partnerships between the HSE and community organisations like Dublin City Community Co-op. The conversation highlights the diverse and complex communities they serve, including areas of disadvantage and the impact of social determinants on health. The Sláintecare Healthy Communities project aims to improve long-term health and wellbeing by addressing broader social needs alongside lifestyle factors. The episode emphasises the value of partnership working and community development in health promotion. For more information, visit https://www.hse.ie/eng/about/who/healthwellbeing/slaintecare-healthy-communities/ Produced by GKMedia.ie

In this episode, host Fergal Fox discusses vaccinations with Dr Lucy Jessop, Director of the National Immunisation Office, and parent representative Lorraine Hughes. Dr Jessop provides a clear explanation of how vaccines work, teaching the immune system to recognise and combat diseases before they can take hold. She stresses the importance of following the recommended vaccination schedule as this proactive approach to health is crucial in safeguarding our children during their most vulnerable stages. We discuss the vaccination schedule for children, including the introduction of the HPV vaccine for boys and its role in cancer prevention, as Lorraine shares her son's vaccination experience. The episode also addresses vaccines recommended during pregnancy, the importance of timely vaccinations to prevent disease resurgence and the need for accurate information from reliable sources. It highlights the role of healthcare professionals in building parental trust and ensuring children receive vaccinations at the right time. For further information visit immunisation.ie or if you’d like to read or download the current immunisation schedule visit https://www.hse.ie/eng/health/immunisation/pubinfo/currentschedule.html. To get in touch with the podcast email Healthandwellbeing.communication@hse.ie Produced by GKMedia.ie

In this episode, host Eamon Keogh talks with Professor Donal O’Shea, HSE Clinical Lead, who takes us through the complexities of obesity as a chronic disease. He emphasises the need for empathy and a shift in perception towards individuals with obesity and highlights the connection between obesity and over 200 conditions, advocating for a shift in focus towards treating obesity itself to prevent these complications. Donal also talks about the importance of language and communication in healthcare., the way we talk about obesity can either perpetuate stigma or foster support. He goes on to discuss the emergence of new treatments for obesity, based on hormones and gut mechanisms that offer significant benefits in terms of health improvement and weight loss. For obesity support information visit www.icpobesity.org or if you’d like to read more on HSE Model of Care for the Management of Overweight and Obesity visit https://www.hse.ie/eng/about/who/cspd/ncps/obesity/model-of-care/. To get in touch with the podcast email Healthandwellbeing.communication@hse.ie Produced by GKMedia.ie

In this episode, host Noreen Turley meets with Brenda O'Donnell and Lauren Watters from Active Disability Ireland to discuss their work underway in promoting active lifestyles for people with disabilities. They tell us about the Active Healthy Me programme, which aims to empower people with disabilities to take control of their own health & wellbeing through an online education programme. We also hear about the Sport Inclusion Disability Charter, outlining five key areas people with disabilities are asking all organisations to consider in making active and healthy lifestyles possible for them. We hear about the importance of inclusive policies and a person-first approach, and highlight the challenges faced in youth sports participation and the need for consultation. Brenda outlines future goals, including expanding into education and the collaboration with services across Ireland to update national physical activity guidelines. The episode concludes with a testimonial from Antoinette, emphasising the positive impact of staying active. Activity Disability Ireland host the Active Disability Services Awards which aim to champion the innovative physical activity, health promotion and community inclusion initiatives that have arisen as a result of the service engaging with Active Healthy Me programme. For those interested in the Active Disability Services Awards, the deadline is approaching, and more information can be found on the Active Disability Ireland website https://activedisability.ie/ For further information visit https://www2.hse.ie/services/disability/ Produced by GKMedia.ie

In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast, we hear about the role of Community First Responders (CFRs) from Ger O’Dea, the Community Engagement Manager with the HSE National Ambulance Service. Ger highlights the importance of community involvement in emergency situations, especially in rural Ireland where ambulance response times can be longer and explains how they provide cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training to anybody who wants to become a CFR. Hosted by Fergal Fox, they discuss the critical first five minutes of a cardiac arrest, the misconceptions between cardiac arrest and heart attack, and the automated system that alerts CFRs to emergencies. Ger emphasises the need for widespread CPR training and the use of AEDs, and he encourages listeners to get involved in CFR schemes to help save lives in their communities. The episode highlights the importance of community engagement, training, and the maintenance of emergency response equipment to enhance survival rates in cardiac events. It all makes for a very inspiring episode, which we hope encourages you to play your part in Communities Saving Lives! For more on becoming a CFR go to www.becomeacfr.ie and to learn more about the work of the HSE National Ambulance Service go to www.nationalambulanceservice.ie Produced by GKMedia.ie

In our latest HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast host Eamon Keogh, talks with Parenting Facilitators, Lulu O’Kelly, Bray Area Partnership and Linda Pickett, Northside Area Partnership. They talk about the parenting peer groups they run, how they are a safe, non-judgemental place, where day to day experiences, like meal times, screen times and the big one, “Saying No” are discussed. They discuss every day challenges parents face, offering some guidance, based on their vast experiences. They also discuss the value and role of peer support in parenting groups, where parents lean on each other and find comfort in the fact that in most cases, they are all dealing with the same day to day issues. For more information visit www.gov.ie/supportingparents and for more information about Slaintecare Healthy Communities Parenting Groups visit https://www.hse.ie/eng/about/who/healthwellbeing/slaintecare-healthy-communities/. To get in touch with the podcast email Healthandwellbeing.communication@hse.ie Produced by GKMedia.ie

The HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast relaunches this week as host Fergal Fox, with Senior Health Promotion and Improvement Officers, Dr Michelle Hardie-Murphy and Aisling Doherty, discuss ten tips to kick start the New Year. They talk about setting realistic goals, the importance of enjoying healthy activities and celebrating small victories. The episode emphasises the need for flexibility, self-care, and regular reflection in the face of setbacks. They highlight the HSE’s quit smoking services and other free resources on the Health and Wellbeing YouTube channel and in the community through the likes of ParkRun and Local Sports Partnerships. They underscore the value of getting support for your behaviour change while recognising that many things influence people’s health outside of their lifestyle behaviours. For more information visit HSE Health and Wellbeing on Youtube, Safefood website, ParkRun, Sport Ireland, Quit.ie, Minding Your Wellbeing and yourmentalhealth.ie. Produced by GKMedia.ie