Each year the 10th October marks World Mental Health Day. This is an international campaign which aims to raise awareness of the importance of mental health. For 2026, the theme set by the World Federation for Mental Health, and supported by the WHO, is “lived experiences heard: real voices, real change.”
The theme emphasises the importance of listening to and amplifying the voices of people with lived experience of mental health challenges to drive meaningful change.
It highlights the critical role of individuals who have firsthand experience with mental health challenges in shaping policies, services, and societal attitudes. The theme underscores that real change occurs when the perspectives of those directly affected are recognized, valued, and acted upon.
Lived experience is increasingly recognized as a form of expertise that complements traditional knowledge. Individuals who have navigated mental health challenges, disability, or neurodivergence provide insights that cannot be captured solely through data or policy documents.
Their experiences reveal systemic barriers, gaps in services, and practical solutions that improve the effectiveness and humanity of mental health interventions.
While this high-level theme may seem only relevant to statutory bodies, and policy-makers, GAA clubs have long been living-out the message of this theme.
Practically, our clubs do their best to be as inclusive as possible to everyone. Mental wellbeing is prioritised through the activities we offer, the facilities we provide in communities, and the sense of connection and purpose we provide for people – all things that promote positive mental health.
The World Federation for Mental Health outline the following practical ways we can all get involved in the campaign, and which are relevant to our GAA clubs:
Advocacy and Awareness: Sharing personal stories can reduce stigma, foster empathy, and inspire community action
Leadership and Decision-Making: Lived Experience Leadership involves centering real voices in decisions we make as committee members, ensuring that our programs reflect the needs of those they serve
Program Design and Evaluation: Engaging people with lived experience in designing health interventions ensures inclusivity, equity, and relevance, particularly in mental health initiatives
Community Engagement: Encouraging participation in events, discussions, and campaigns allows individuals to contribute to change while feeling seen and valued
By coincidence, the Irish Life GAA Healthy Club Conference will take place on Saturday 10th October in Croke Park. There will be a strong theme around promoting positive mental health from guest speakers, panel discussions, and workshops. Registration for the Conference will open shortly, keep an eye out for promotion on Ulster GAA social media.
