Mental Health Ireland invites Kildare to ask: ‘Hello, how are you?’ on May 15

In modern times, there has generally been less stigma surrounding mental health. 

However, with just a quick Google search, you can find dozens of articles which describe just how many people in Ireland — regardless of sex, age, economic background, occupation, and more — are suffering inside their own minds.

Although there is no one-size-fits-all approach to tackling mental health issues, it is often the case that the first step towards recovering involves a simple, friendly and reassuring conversation with the person who is suffering with a mental health condition.

Taking clear inspiration from this approach, Mental Health Ireland is inviting the people of County Kildare to say "Hello" and ask "How Are You?" with meaning on Tuesday, May 15, 2025.

Now in its fourth year, the national "Hello, How Are You?"  campaign, according to the organisers, highlights the importance of "staying connected, helps tackle loneliness, creates a sense of belonging and builds relationships".

"It also encourages early help-seeking through reliable information on mental health support services and signposting."

They continued: "There are many ways to slow down and genuinely engage with a family member, friend or even a stranger. You don’t need to be an expert to have a meaningful conversation."

The organisation is specifically encouraging people to use the "HELLO steps", which are outlined below:

• H: Say Hello 
• E: Engage with the person 
• L: Listen to them 
• L: Learn about them and what they might be saying 
• O: Give them time to talk and to explore options  

Claire Flynn, the national campaign's lead, further said: "Every year we’re seeing more meaningful conversations and social connections being made across Ireland.

"We continue to develop free literature, resources and training to grow the reach of the campaign and support events, and to work collaboratively with other organisations who are connecting communities in creative and impactful ways."

Ms Flynn added: "On May 15, we’re looking forward to seeing all the different ways the nation says 'Hello, How Are You?' whether it is holding an event, joining a parkrun, or simply boiling the kettle and sitting down with a friend.

"It all starts with a simple question: 'How Are You?'"

Mental Health Ireland has also said that it is teaming up with companies, organisations and groups "to ensure that the message of 'Hello, How Are You?' reaches every community and household in Ireland".

Iarnród Éireann / Irish Rail is supporting the mental health campaign again with HELLO champions and volunteers at Waterford Train Station as well as Dublin Heuston, Dublin Connolly, Limerick, Cork (Ceannt) and Athlone stations on May 15. 

In addition, 'parkrun', the free, weekly, community event where people of all ages and abilities are welcome to walk, jog, run, or volunteer, is inviting participants across Ireland to learn about the campaign, as well as the benefits of community connections and conversation, at 'parkrun' events on Saturday, May 17, 2025.

For free HELLO resources, toolkits and further information (available in different languages), you can visit www.hellohowareyou.info/resources.

Photograph supplied by Mental Health Ireland

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