The South Eastern Trust marked Loneliness Awareness Week by hosting a series of information stands across its sites to highlight the issue of loneliness and promote available support.
Stands were set up at the Ulster Hospital, Lagan Valley Hospital and Downe Hospital, offering guidance, signposting and resources to help individuals understand loneliness and how to take steps to address it. The initiative encouraged staff, patients and visitors to recognise the signs of loneliness, talk about it openly, and seek support where needed.
Statistics have shown how loneliness can be as harmful as smoking 15 cigarettes a day and can increase dementia risk by 64 per cent.
South Eastern Trust, Health Development Specialist, Sandra Glover, explained how the Trust’s Beyond Loneliness Group is working to challenge the stigma around loneliness and foster connections across workplaces and communities. Sandra said, “We really want to start the conversation around loneliness. We know that if we talk about loneliness, more people will feel able to share how they are feeling. Loneliness is a normal emotion, but when it becomes persistent, it can impact both physical and mental health, increasing the risk of heart attack, stroke, dementia and depression.
“Most of us will experience loneliness at some point. Our aim is to prevent people from becoming unwell as a result of it. We want everyone to know that help is available and that reaching out can make all the difference.”
Supporting the initiative at the Ulster Hospital was Marion Mutch from Lena by Inspire, a workplace mental health and wellbeing support service providing free assistance to Trust staff. Marion stated, “Some jobs can feel isolating, whether you are working shifts, on night duty, or under pressure, the reality is, loneliness can affect anyone. No matter how small a concern may seem, it is always worth talking to someone. Small things can build up over time.”
Marion highlighted that all South Eastern Trust staff have access to a 24/7 helpline, as well as four to six counselling sessions, either face-to-face or by phone. Marion added, “It is so important to look after your mental health. Don’t wait, reach out, talk to someone and know you are not alone.”
For further information or to get involved in the Beyond Loneliness Group visit health.development@setrust.hscni.net
Lena by Inspire’s 24hr helpline number is contactable on 0808 800 0002.