Tag Archives: Mental Health

A teenage boy scrolling on his phone while sitting by a laptop,
AMH News

What a social media ban for under 16s could mean for young people’s mental health

A young teenage boy scrolling on a mobile phone while sat in front of a laptop.

TikTok, Instagram and Snapchat are among the social media platforms to be banned for under 16s, according to new UK Government plans to improve children’s safety and wellbeing online.

The government is expected to pass regulations before Christmas, allowing the ban to take effect from spring 2027.1

The plans would mark a significant shift in how young people use the internet and reflect a growing concern about the impact of social media on mental health.

Where we are now

Using the internet is part of daily life for almost all young people. Ofcom have found that 99% of children spend time online, with three-quarters of social media users aged 8-17 registered with their own profile on one of the major platforms. 2

However, there are real risks to children spending time online. Around 75% of teenagers report having encountered potentially harmful content, while 3 in 5 have felt uncomfortable by contact made with them online. 2

Infographic displaying the stats from Ofcom on young people and social media.

Research from the Royal Society of Public Health also shows links between increased social media use and poorer mental health 3:

  • Young people who spend more than two hours per day on social media are more likely to report poor mental health, including symptoms of anxiety and depression.
  • Young people report that four of the five most used social media platforms make their feelings of anxiety worse.
  • 7 in 10 young people report having experienced cyberbullying.
  • Social media use is also linked to poor sleep habits.

What we can learn from Australia

In December 2025, Australia became the first country to restrict social media access for under 16s nationwide.

Though it’s too early to fully assess the effectiveness of this ban, an early survey suggests a mixed picture 4:

Positive impacts

  • 61% parents observed positive behavioural effects
  • 43% noticed more face-to-face interactions
  • 38% noted an improvement in relationships
A mother sitting with her young teenage daughter.

Negative impacts

  • 27% of parents reported a shift to alternative or less regulated platforms
  • 25% saw a decrease in social connection, creativity and online support from peers

While this survey suggests some encouraging early signs, it’s clear some challenges will remain, particularly in navigating the movement to alternative platforms.

Longer term studies will be required to fully understand the mental health outcomes of removing social media access.

What this could mean for young people

There are clear benefits to the social media ban. Reducing access can lower exposure to harmful content, cyberbullying and addictive platform design. The age limit also gives children more time to build their resilience and coping skills before being immersed in a complex online world.

However, the ban risks driving teenagers towards less regulated, potentially less safe platforms. In turn, young people may become less likely to report any harm they encounter online.

A teenage girl scrolling on her phone, looking serious.

Restrictions on social media also prevents young people accessing helpful online spaces. Social media can allow young people to build and maintain friendships, explore their identity, and find expert information on difficult issues. These online connections are particularly important for those who may feel isolated or lack support in their home lives.

Moving forward

There is no simple solution to the challenges facing young people’s mental health. For many young people, these plans could have a positive impact to reduce social pressures and encourage healthier ways to maintain wellbeing.  

However, a social media ban alone cannot build connection, confidence or resilience. To make a meaningful difference to young people’s mental health, it should be part of a broader effort to listen to young people’s voices, address the causes of poor mental health, and strengthen the mental health support available.  

References

  1. McMahon, Liv. ‘When will social media ban start, and which platforms are affected?’. BBC News. 15 June 2026. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/ceqdny4l3jdo
  2. Ofcom. ‘How the Online Safety Act will help to protect children.’ 6 February 2024. https://www.ofcom.org.uk/online-safety/protecting-children/how-the-online-safety-act-will-help-to-protect-children
  3. Royal Society for Public Health. ‘#StatusofMind: The effects of Social Media on Mental Health’. 2017. https://www.rsph.org.uk/our-work/publications/statusofmind/
  4. Sawyer, Susan M. & Lin, Sylvia C. ‘Early wins for the social media ban, new survey claims. But the full picture is far more complicated’. The Conversation. 20 March 2026. https://theconversation.com/early-wins-for-the-social-media-ban-new-survey-claims-but-the-full-picture-is-far-more-complicated-278768

A young woman and her grandmother enjoying a Christmas dinner.
AMH News

The Gift of Giving: How generosity at Christmas boosts your mental health

Christmas is often described as the season of giving. We might immediately think about presents under the tree and the joy this brings to those around us.

But did you know that giving – whether it’s time, money, or a kind gesture – can also improve your own mental health?

In this blog, we’re exploring why giving is important, the science behind its benefits, and some easy and inexpensive ways you can give this Christmas.

A young woman hugging her grandmother while they enjoy Christmas dinner.

Why Giving Matters for Mental Health

‘Giving to others’ is one of the 5 Ways to Wellbeing. These are evidence-based steps that we can all take to improve our mental health and wellbeing. 1

The festive period can be overwhelming, so it’s especially important to look after your wellbeing at this time of year.

But, giving doesn’t have to mean buying expensive Christmas gifts. Offering your time or simply showing kindness are just as rewarding. And it’s something we can do every day.

The Science Behind Generosity

When we experience kindness from others, the brain releases dopamine and serotonin – natural chemicals that your body produces to make you feel good. This response also happens when we show kindness to others, so it’s a win-win!2

Even being aware of our generosity can have an impact. Studies have found a link between counting your acts of kindness over one week, to an increase in happiness and gratitude3.

Research has also demonstrated that performing acts of kindness can help you feel more connected to others4, which is another of the 5 Ways to Wellbeing.

Christmas can be a difficult and lonely time of year for many people, so sparking that social connection and strengthening your support networks can be hugely beneficial.

Three friends enjoying a winter walk.

Simple Ways to Give this Christmas

Giving doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. Here are some ideas to show kindness over the festive period:

  • Check in with someone

You could send a Christmas card to an old friend, visit an elderly neighbour or call a friend that might be struggling.

  • Share your skills

Help a work colleague with a difficult task, bake some festive treats for your friends or lend a hand with some DIY.

  • Try a random act of kindness

Even something as simple as saying hello to a passer-by while out on your dog walk could brighten their day!

  • Volunteer in your community

Local food banks or community groups can really benefit from an extra helping hand over the Christmas period. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to meet new people and connect with those around you.

  • Donate to a cause you care about

Giving any amount to charity, whether it’s a single donation or monthly contribution, will make a vital difference. Donating to Action Mental Health allows us to support even more people in Northern Ireland experiencing mental ill-health, all year round.

A young boy reading a book with his grandfather, with a Christmas tree in the background.

The Gift of Giving

Every act of kindness, big or small, will make an impact. So, this Christmas, consider giving not just as a seasonal tradition, but as a vital way to nurture your own mental health.  Start small, be intentional, and take notice of the joy you create.

There are lots of ways you can support Action Mental Health this Christmas.

Whether it’s a donation, or festive fundraising with your family, school or colleagues, we really appreciate your generosity.

If you’d like to find out more, we’d love to hear from you. Email us at [email protected].

Donate today

References

1 NHS (2022). ‘5 steps to mental wellbeing’. https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/self-help/guides-tools-and-activities/five-steps-to-mental-wellbeing/

2 IE University (2024). ‘The science of compassion: How kindness benefits our health’.https://www.ie.edu/center-for-health-and-well-being/blog/the-science-of-compassion-how-kindness-benefits-our-health/

3 Otake, K. & Shimai, S. & Tanaka-Matsumi, J. & Otsui, K. & Fredrickson, B. (2006). ‘Happy People Become Happier through Kindness: A Counting Kindnesses Intervention.’ Journal of happiness studies. 7. 361-375. 10.1007/s10902-005-3650-z

4 Cregg, D. R. and Cheavens, J. S. (2022) ‘Healing through helping: an experimental investigation of kindness, social activities, and reappraisal as well-being interventions’, The Journal of Positive Psychology, 18(6), 924–941. https://doi.org/10.1080/17439760.2022.2154695

AMH News

Dave Elliott’s Cycle UPDATES

Dave Elliott will be cycling nearly 293 miles around Action Mental Health services in NI, in just 3 days from 8th – 10th October for World Mental Health Day.

Follow along on this page for regular updates on Dave Elliott’s ‘Break the Cycle’ challenge on our social media channels!

Dave will be finishing the challenge in Belfast and helping reinforce the message that more funding is required from Government towards mental health services in Northern Ireland.

Donate to Dave’s ‘Break the Cycle’ challenge by texting DAVEFIVE or DAVETEN to 70085 to donate £5 or £10, or donate here on our website.

Find out more about Dave’s challenge!

Donate Today

eating disorders
AMH News

Challenging body image this Eating Disorders Awareness Week

Craigavon Travellers Support Committee enjoy ‘thought-provoking’ BodyTalk session from Action Mental Health

eating disorders
Action Mental Health project worker, Deborah McCready (L), who helps to deliver the charity’s eating disorders support, pictured with Shauna Duggan (R) from the SHSCT’s Eating Disorders Team.

Young people from Craigavon Travellers Support Committee have taken part in an interactive workshop from Action Mental Health aimed at raising awareness and understanding of eating disorders.

The BodyTalk session was delivered as part of the charity’s ongoing work within this area and to link in with Eating Disorders Awareness Week (February 24 – March 2). The girls who participated in the event – aged between 11 and 17 years old – subsequently discussed the body image concerns they faced in today’s society, along with the various pressures experienced by young people generally online.

Leeann Stewart, Youth worker with Craigavon Travellers Support Committee, said: “We had the privilege of welcoming Action Mental Health to deliver a beautiful and thought-provoking session on body talk. The session was empowering, sparking open conversations about how we see ourselves – and the pressures placed upon us. We are so proud of the young women in this group for their courage and willingness to challenge unrealistic beauty standards. Let’s continue lifting each other up and embracing who we are, exactly as we are!”

In 2019, The Mental Health Foundation and YouGov (2019) found that 37% of teenagers felt upset about their body image, while 31% also felt ashamed. Meanwhile, 40% of teenagers said images on social media caused them to worry about their body image.

“Research like this highlights the need for intervention and prevention at an early age,” said Deborah McCready, project worker with Action Mental Health’s eating disorders support team.

“The session with Craigavon Travellers Support Committee went really well. We made it very interactive and the young girls talked about issues which directly impacted them, like social media and some of the pressures that young people are facing today. We had open conversations about the way we can negatively talk to ourselves and how we’re often not aware of the impact that has on our self-esteem. That was a really practical thing the girls could take away – just being aware of how they speak to themselves and to practice more self-compassion.”

laughter
AMH News

How having a laugh can boost our wellbeing

We all enjoy a good joke and can attest to feeling better after a bout of laughing with friends or family, so it’s good to know that the science agrees. Indeed, from research carried out to date on laughter, it appears that sharing a giggle with people can do wonders for our mental health and helps us feel safer and more connected. Plus, it’s fun, so what’s not to like?

According to psychologist, Dr Robert Provine – the world’s leading scientific expert on laughter – the positive emotions we share when we laugh with people is critically important for social cohesion. Basically, when we laugh with those around us, we bond with them and make connections, which reduce feelings of isolation and help boost our mental wellbeing. In short, we form a community and/or a network in which we feel safe and at ease.

Describing laughter as “a social vocalization that binds people together,” [1] interestingly, Dr Provine found that the key stimulus for laughter was usually another person. I.e. we spontaneously laugh more in relation to the person, than what it is they’re actually saying. Laughter is also much more common in social situations than in solitary ones, so we tend to laugh more often when we’re with others than when we’re alone.  

Physiological benefits of laughter

Further research shows that, while it “is commonly accepted that laughter produces psychological benefits, such as improving affect, depression, anxiety, and stress,” [2] there are also physiological benefits to laughing.

Indeed, recent studies have indicated that laughter can improve heart health, with the effects of a good chuckle expanding our arteries and increasing the flow of oxygen around the body. [3]. Other physiological benefits of laughter include stimulating the muscles and lungs as well as triggering the release of feel-good endorphins from our brain.

Long-term, laughter can also improve our immune system: “Negative thoughts manifest into chemical reactions that can affect your body by bringing more stress into your system and decreasing your immunity. By contrast, positive thoughts can actually release neuropeptides that help fight stress and potentially more-serious illnesses.” [4]. It can even help to relieve pain, as laughter can assist the body in producing natural painkillers.

Reducing social isolation

Counselling Coordinator – Casual Team at Action Mental Health, Lauren Darragh, said laughter was a great way of connecting people and reducing isolation – which is a key part of the work carried out by her team.

“Studies have shown that laughing also reduces a lot of stress hormones,” she said. “It can impact the dopamine and serotonin levels in the brain. Low levels of these are often associated with depression and low mood, so boosting these through laughter can have a positive effect on our mood.”

She added that laughter could also help to increase people’s resilience and tenacity. Indeed, by reducing stress and boosting the immune system, laughter allows us to refocus – all of which, with our enhanced mood, ultimately builds a more resilient character.

“I think life is about fun as well as overcoming the hardships,” said Lauren. “It’s about laughter and lightness and joy. As a therapist, you hold that hope that there are the positives. With laughter, the huge thing for me is the bond that you find with other people through laughing together. It can show that the person is safe and it encourages connection and communication and reduces isolation.

Lauren Darragh from Action Mental Health.

“At Action Mental Health the majority of our work is based on removing isolation. It’s about encouraging connectedness and counselling is part of that.”

With Action Mental Health’s ‘Stand-up for Someone’ comedy nights planned for April, these offer a great opportunity to enjoy a laugh with friends and family while raising funds for vital mental health services. 

“I think, particularly in Northern Ireland, we have a very good sense of humour,” said Lauren. “It’s a part of our culture. Sharing a laugh with someone bonds you. It’s how people make connections and what we know about mental health is that people’s mental health deteriorates without connection. Anything that encourages connection is part of that and something to celebrate.”

Find out more about ‘Stand-up for Someone’ here:

References

[1] Provine, R. (2000) The science of laughter. Available at: https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/articles/200011/the-science-laughter

[2] Louie, D; Brook, K; Frates, E. (2016) The Laughter Prescription: A Tool for Lifestyle Medicine. Am J Lifestyle Med. June 23; 10 (4) :262-267. DOI: 10.1177/1559827614550279. PMID: 30202281; PMCID: PMC6125057. Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6125057/

[3] British Heart Foundation. (2023) How joy affects health: is laughter the best medicine? Available at: https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/wellbeing/how-joy-affects-health

[4] Mayo Clinic. (2023) Stress relief from laughter? It’s no joke. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/stress-relief/art-20044456

I am someone

laughter
AMH News

How having a laugh can boost our wellbeing

We all enjoy a good joke and can attest to feeling better after a bout of laughing with friends or family, so it’s good to know that the science agrees. Indeed, from research carried out to date on laughter, it appears that sharing a giggle with people can do wonders for our mental health and helps us feel safer and more connected. Plus, it’s fun, so what’s not to like?

According to psychologist, Dr Robert Provine – the world’s leading scientific expert on laughter – the positive emotions we share when we laugh with people is critically important for social cohesion. Basically, when we laugh with those around us, we bond with them and make connections, which reduce feelings of isolation and help boost our mental wellbeing. In short, we form a community and/or a network in which we feel safe and at ease.

Describing laughter as “a social vocalization that binds people together,” [1] interestingly, Dr Provine found that the key stimulus for laughter was usually another person. I.e. we spontaneously laugh more in relation to the person, than what it is they’re actually saying. Laughter is also much more common in social situations than in solitary ones, so we tend to laugh more often when we’re with others than when we’re alone.  

Physiological benefits of laughter

Further research shows that, while it “is commonly accepted that laughter produces psychological benefits, such as improving affect, depression, anxiety, and stress,” [2] there are also physiological benefits to laughing.

Indeed, recent studies have indicated that laughter can improve heart health, with the effects of a good chuckle expanding our arteries and increasing the flow of oxygen around the body. [3]. Other physiological benefits of laughter include stimulating the muscles and lungs as well as triggering the release of feel-good endorphins from our brain.

Long-term, laughter can also improve our immune system: “Negative thoughts manifest into chemical reactions that can affect your body by bringing more stress into your system and decreasing your immunity. By contrast, positive thoughts can actually release neuropeptides that help fight stress and potentially more-serious illnesses.” [4]. It can even help to relieve pain, as laughter can assist the body in producing natural painkillers.

Reducing social isolation

Counselling Coordinator – Casual Team at Action Mental Health, Lauren Darragh, said laughter was a great way of connecting people and reducing isolation – which is a key part of the work carried out by her team.

“Studies have shown that laughing also reduces a lot of stress hormones,” she said. “It can impact the dopamine and serotonin levels in the brain. Low levels of these are often associated with depression and low mood, so boosting these through laughter can have a positive effect on our mood.”

She added that laughter could also help to increase people’s resilience and tenacity. Indeed, by reducing stress and boosting the immune system, laughter allows us to refocus – all of which, with our enhanced mood, ultimately builds a more resilient character.

“I think life is about fun as well as overcoming the hardships,” said Lauren. “It’s about laughter and lightness and joy. As a therapist, you hold that hope that there are the positives. With laughter, the huge thing for me is the bond that you find with other people through laughing together. It can show that the person is safe and it encourages connection and communication and reduces isolation.

Lauren Darragh from Action Mental Health.

“At Action Mental Health the majority of our work is based on removing isolation. It’s about encouraging connectedness and counselling is part of that.”

With Action Mental Health’s ‘Stand-up for Someone’ comedy nights planned for April, these offer a great opportunity to enjoy a laugh with friends and family while raising funds for vital mental health services. 

“I think, particularly in Northern Ireland, we have a very good sense of humour,” said Lauren. “It’s a part of our culture. Sharing a laugh with someone bonds you. It’s how people make connections and what we know about mental health is that people’s mental health deteriorates without connection. Anything that encourages connection is part of that and something to celebrate.”

Find out more about ‘Stand-up for Someone’ here:

https://themaclive.com/event/stand-up-for-someone

References

[1] Provine, R. (2000) The science of laughter. Available at: https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/articles/200011/the-science-laughter

[2] Louie, D; Brook, K; Frates, E. (2016) The Laughter Prescription: A Tool for Lifestyle Medicine. Am J Lifestyle Med. June 23; 10 (4) :262-267. DOI: 10.1177/1559827614550279. PMID: 30202281; PMCID: PMC6125057. Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6125057/

[3] British Heart Foundation. (2023) How joy affects health: is laughter the best medicine? Available at: https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/wellbeing/how-joy-affects-health

[4] Mayo Clinic. (2023) Stress relief from laughter? It’s no joke. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/stress-relief/art-20044456

I am someone

Workplace Wellbeing Hub
AMH News

Workplace Wellbeing Hub launched at The MAC

(L-R) Joanne McClelland, Talent Acquisition Specialist at Henderson Group; Lauren Houston, Workplace Wellbeing Coordinator; David Babington, Action Mental Health CEO; Dr Ruth Fleck, Consultant Clinical Psychologist; Heather White, Head of HR at Lunn’s Jewellers.

A new online platform and membership scheme created by Action Mental Health to help HR professionals support their workforces more effectively with their mental health and wellbeing launched at The MAC, Belfast on Thursday, 23 January.

Created by our team of experienced professionals, the Workplace Wellbeing Hub offers bespoke solutions for organisations of all sizes. Those who sign up will subsequently benefit from a range of strategic mental health and wellbeing consultancy, training and support, along with a suite of professional online resources, webinars and more.

workplace wellbeing hub
David Babington, Action Mental Health CEO.

Speaking at the launch, Action Mental Health CEO, David Babington, said the Workplace Wellbeing Hub was unique in that, it not only offered tailored support to employees but also specifically assisted HR and wellbeing professionals in supporting their workforce.

“There remains a significant unmet need for businesses in terms of supporting their staff and addressing their wellbeing needs,” he said. “Whilst workplace training has been part of Action Mental Health’s service offering for a number of years we have never had a membership offering or digital platform designed specifically for this purpose.

“The new Workplace Wellbeing Hub strengthens our existing services by combining digital innovation with expert, locally-delivered support – offering employers a comprehensive solution to workplace wellbeing.”

Also speaking at the launch were Joanne McClelland, Talent Acquisition Specialist at Henderson Group – one of Action Mental Health’s partners – and Heather White, Head of HR at Lunn’s Jewellers, which is one of the first employers to sign up to the Wellbeing Hub. Consultant Clinical Psychologist, Dr Ruth Fleck, also addressed attendees, along with Lauren Houston, Coordinator of Action Mental Health’s workplace wellbeing services.

“We’re incredibly fortunate to have worked alongside Action Mental Health and over the past year have witnessed their expertise and support,” said Heather. “The feedback from our managers and colleagues has been nothing short of exceptional. It’s given us the confidence to support each other in the workplace and at home. The support from Action Mental Health has been invaluable and being part of the Workplace Wellbeing Hub going forward is a key part of our business strategy for this year.”

Dr Fleck added that organisations had a duty of care to their staff to implement impactful mental health care within the workplace, something that required long-term investment rather than one-off training days or events. “It’s about having a range of strategies in place – a complete and whole-system change and approach.”

workplace wellbeing hub
Workplace Wellbeing Coordinator, Lauren Houston with Action Mental Health CEO David Babington and Dr Ruth Fleck.

For more information about our Workplace Wellbeing Hub – and to sign up – please visit: https://workplacewellbeinghub.amh.org.uk/

marathon
AMH News

Ready for a running challenge…?

With many of us kick-starting the year with personal fitness goals and resolutions to prioritise our health and wellbeing in 2025, why not help both yourself and others in the process?

running

At Action Mental Health we have multiple opportunities throughout the year for runners to take part in a range of marathons and half-marathons, both locally and further afield. Indeed, if Belfast doesn’t appeal, then how about Vienna, Rome, Paris or Milan? The perfect opportunity to combine some sightseeing with your running, you could even make a holiday of it and book a few days away to really make the most of your trip.

Whether you’re new to running, are an occasional runner or a seasoned marathon-goer, our events are scattered across the year, so there’s plenty of time to train up for a good cause. By running on behalf of Action Mental Health you’ll subsequently help to raise awareness of our services for people in your local community as well as assisting with vital fundraising to help us continue delivering these. You’ll also have something to work towards, with a clear running goal, which will give that added sense of achievement when you complete your run.

So, this year, why not run for a reason and sign up to one of our marathons or half-marathons? Your support today will ultimately help to make someone’s tomorrow that bit brighter.

Embrace the mental and physical benefits of running

running

There are many benefits to running, both to our physical and mental health, so it’s a great way to keep fit and healthy, no matter what age you are. It’s also a flexible hobby as you can do it whenever suits your schedule and is relatively cheap, as the key essentials required are simply a good pair of running shoes and some appropriate running kit.

Advantages of running:

  • Boosts heart health: Research shows that running strengthens the heart and lowers your resting heartrate, making it more efficient. Running further reduces the risk of heart disease, as a healthier and more robust heart is less likely to succumb to illness.
  • Improves muscle and joint strength: Running makes your body more resilient so if you run regularly, your muscles will get stronger and this in turn will help to prevent injury. Your joints will also benefit, as research indicates that runners actually experience less wear and tear on their joints than those who don’t run.
running
  • Better mood: The so-called ‘runner’s high’ is true as it has been found that running boosts our mood and enhances mental wellbeing. It reduces feelings of stress and anxiety and makes us feel better and happier in ourselves.
  • Gets you out in nature: When we run outside it allows us a chance to get out and about in nature, which is also known to boost our mental wellbeing.
  • Improves sleep: Running, especially earlier in the day, gives us energy while ultimately tiring out our body in a good way. It means that, by the time we go to bed, our bodies are better prepared for sleeping, while the sleep we experience will be better quality as a result and we won’t find it as difficult to nod off.

Run for a reason in 2025

If you’re ready to give running a go this year then we’re currently accepting applications for our various Action Mental Health running challenges in 2025.

Having launched our “I AM SOMEONE” campaign on World Mental Health Day last October, we’re now encouraging our supporters to ‘run for someone’ by participating in one (or more!) of our marathons or half-marathons. Why not run for a reason this year and help to support people in your community who are struggling with their mental health?

Find out more about our running events here: https://www.amh.org.uk/events/

Get in touch with us to secure a running space for:

  • Rome: March
  • Vienna, Milan, Paris: April 
  • Belfast, Prague: May
  • Belfast and Waterside Half-marathon: September
  • Dublin: October
  • Athens: November
  • Valencia: December