2020 has been a challenging year for everyone.  COVID-19 has impacted us in so many ways and certainly has affected the mental wellbeing of thousands of individuals.  It is estimated that 1 in 4 people experience a mental health difficulty in Ireland, with all of us being affected by mental health in one form or another.  The stigma and discrimination associated with a significant mental health problem is a very big challenge for people to deal with and we all need to acknowledge this. 

October is the month that shines the light on mental health and promotes the Green Ribbon campaign.  The Green Ribbon campaign is a month-long initiative, run by See Change, encouraging people in Ireland to positively promote mental health and end the stigma associated with it.  By wearing the Green Ribbon, an international symbol for mental health awareness, you show you are committed to influencing positive change.

With more people working remotely, experiencing challenges of balancing work and home life, and missing the social interaction with work colleagues, it is important for us all to understand the part we can play in supporting an individual who is experiencing a mental health problem.

Platinum Brand Communications is collaborating with EmployAbility Limerick who helps a person with an illness in returning to the workplace and many of the people they support have a mental illness. EmployAbility Limerick believes everyone has the right to work and endeavours to raise awareness in the business community on the value and resilience a person seeking to return to work following difficulties with their mental health holds.

There is no denying that this year has challenged all of us to not only continue to raise mental health awareness but challenged the traditional awareness campaigns. This year we are asking the business community to wear a green ribbon for the month of October to signal that you are supporting mental health awareness, ending stigma, and promoting equality in the workplace.

On the 14th October we are asking you to wear your green ribbon and share images on your social media platforms throughout October. Take a photo with your own teams of colleagues or friends and tag @seechangeireland @employab on social media using #GreenRibbonIRL.  Let’s all embrace the Green Ribbon campaign, positively promote conversations around mental health, and support our family, friends, and colleagues during these challenging times. 

We are proud to support this cause and encourage active discussion with our clients, stakeholders, and community partners.  Let people know you are open to having a conversation by wearing the green ribbon. To obtain your green ribbon contact Employability Limerick on 061 493095 or visit See Change and see how you can make a positive impact.