It is estimated that one in four people in Ireland will experience some mental health problems in their lifetime. Mental health problems can range from a low or sad period to a more serious depression. Some people go on to experience severe mental health problems.
Mental health affects everyone. The government is focused on achieving and maintaining optimum mental health in Ireland.
As part of Sláintecare, the government aims to enhance mental health services in local communities. This will ensure help and support is nearby if and when people need it.
Read more about mental health services and find your local service.
The draft Heads are the result of a major review of the Mental Health Act. The review included a 2015 Expert Group Review , a 2021 public consultation and extensive consultation with other key stakeholders like the HSE and the Mental Health Commission. The review also took into account legislative changes like the Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) Act 2015 and the Mental Health (Amendment) Act 2018 , and Ireland’s international obligations, including the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and European Convention on Human Rights.
The draft heads of bill have been sent to the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Health, for pre-legislative scrutiny and the Department of Health will work with the Office of the Attorney General to prepare a Bill in line with the draft heads of bill.
The 2001 Mental Health Act, amongst other things, sets out the process of involuntary detention for persons who need inpatient mental health treatment, established the Mental Health Commission and the Inspector of Mental Health Services, and introduced numerous safeguards for people under the Act, including the right to a regular review of detention by a tribunal.
‘Sharing the Vision’ is the successor to ‘A Vision for Change’ that was launched in 2006. It carries forward those elements of the original policy that still have relevance in light of expert opinion. It incorporates new recommendations as appropriate to enhance national policy, while simultaneously aligning with the ten-year vision for reform and transformation of Ireland’s health and social care services encapsulated in the Sláintecare report.
Ireland's national strategy to reduce suicide is called Connecting for Life. The strategy sets out a vision of an Ireland where fewer lives are lost through suicide, and where communities are empowered to improve their mental health.
The National Office for Suicide Prevention co-ordinates the strategy.