350 young men from Newry attend ‘Young Minds Matter’ conference | Latest Newry News, Newry Sport and Newry Business for Newry City

350 young men from Newry attend ‘Young Minds Matter’ conference

350 young men from the Newry area recently learnt about the importance of maintaining good mental health and wellbeing, and how to become more resilient to stress.

Councillor Roisin Mulgrew, Chairperson for the Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, welcomed young people to the Young Minds Matter conference.

 

 

She said, “From school and exams, to relationships, and social media activities, young minds face many difficult decisions which can at times become overwhelming. The conference today, which marks World Mental Health Day, is about highlighting the many services and organisations available in the district area that are available to help, support, and assist you all.”

The young men, aged 12 to 14 years from 13 local schools, participated in a range of workshops and sessions on masculinity and gender, cyber safety, drumming, mindfulness and yoga.

Liam McVerry, a young male volunteer with YouthAction NI, spoke from the conference and said, “The event is a great opportunity for us as young men to speak to other peers around topics such as masculinity and being male in society today.

 

 

“It might be the first time for many of the young men to talk about their feelings and experiences so we want to make sure that it is a positive experience and create the environment where it is ok to ask questions about growing up as a male in Newry and seek support when it is needed.”

The event was also an opportunity for both students and teachers to find out more about the services available locally to support young men.

Jacinta Linden, Chairperson of the Newry Locality Group stated, “The Young Minds Matter” conference will shine a light on the many services and agencies working to support positive health and wellbeing throughout the Newry, Mourne and Down area.

 

 

“On the day, both students and teachers will have an opportunity to meet with service providers and hear from leading experts on keeping safe and keeping well. It is an absolute privilege to be part of delivering this conference.

“As a result of this event, we hope that the boys and teachers feel better connected, and informed about support networks available but most importantly we hope that all of the participants have fun and enjoy the conference.”

 

 

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Posted by on Oct 23 2017. Filed under Community. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback to this entry

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