The HPA has launched the second phase of the programme of public information campaigns to promote good mental health.
The latest campaign targets men, particularly those in the 16-24 age group, and encourages them to look after their mental health by opening up and talking about things that worry them or cause anxiety.
The main TV campaign, which began on 4 June, will be reinforced with radio, bus and poster advertising as well as the distribution of beer mats in pubs.
Sports organisations including the Gaelic Athletic Association, the Irish Football Association and Ulster Rugby will be lending support to the campaign and working with the HPA to raise awareness of and challenge attitudes around mental health among their membership.
The campaign website www.mindingyourhead.info will be promoted in all elements of the advertising.
This second phase of the campaign to promote good mental health was developed following qualitative research with males across Northern Ireland. In this phase there is a focus on social interaction and the need to talk with family and friends.
More broadly, the public information campaign encourages social responsibility and an ethos of mutual support in relation to the mental health and wellbeing of individuals, families and communities.
The campaign addresses actions outlined in Protect life: a shared vision, the Northern Ireland suicide prevention strategy and action plan 2006-2011 and Promoting mental strategy and action plan 2003-2008.
To contact the Health Promotion Agency for Northern Ireland call 028 9031 1611, e-mail Deidre McNamee at d.mcnamee@hpani.org.uk or see the website www.healthpromotionagency.org.uk
