Ulster Rugby v Cardiff Blues

CHARITYPARTNER DROPTHEMASKWITH EXTERNTHISHALLOWEEN

It’s Friday night in Kingspan Stadium and smiles abound. But take a closer look, because tonight the reality is that there are many people present who will be struggling with their mental health. People who feel they have no choice but to mask their true feelings. That’s why we are delighted to introduce Extern to you as our new charity partner for the next two seasons. Our new charity partnership with Extern has a focus on positive mental health and wellbeing, and aims to encourage more people to be open about their mental health. A leading charity in Northern Ireland since 1978, Extern now delivers life-changing mental health supports to over 10,000 people each year. Speaking about the partnership, CEO, Jonny Petrie said: “Northern Ireland has an alarmingly high rate of mental ill-health and I think that Ulster Rugby, in conjunction with Extern, can make a difference. I hope that this partnership will bring mental health issues to the forefront of the public’s mind, provide support to those who need it, and generate funds for the vital work that Extern undertakes. “I would encourage the Ulster Rugby community to get behind all of our initiatives as part of this partnership and help us to make it a success.” Tonight, both Ulster Rugby and Extern are asking for YOUR help to continue this important work by signing up to join our Drop the Mask campaign. We are urging staff and teams in workplaces across Northern Ireland to come to choose a day around Halloween to come to work in fancy dress, and by doing so, show support for people living with mental health issues, many of whom feel they have to mask their true feelings. Participants can consider making a donation to help support Extern’s vital mental health services.

Anyone wanting to get involved can sign up for a free Drop the Mask fundraising kit at www.extern.org/Mask.

And for those seeking help for themselves or a loved one, here are some important first steps to keeping your mental health in good shape: » Be kind to yourself, Stop judging yourself. Practise positive self-talk. Rest. Pay attention to your self-care battery. Make time for yourself. Reach out for help. Ask for what you need. Create a strong support system. » Eat balanced and healthy meals, drink sensibly, and stay hydrated. » Do things that you enjoy. What activities can you lose yourself in? What did you love doing in the past? Talk about your feelings - this can help you stay in good mental health and deal with times when you feel troubled. Keep Active. Regular exercise can boost your self-esteem, help you concentrate, sleep, and look and feel better. Take a break. A change of scene or a change of pace is good for your mental health. Accept who you are. Further information on Extern’s work is available online at www.extern.org » » » » » »

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