Episodes

  • In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, we discuss Diabetes with Dr. Kate Gajewska, Clinical Manager for Advocacy and Research, Diabetes Ireland and Dr. Cathy Breen, Interim Dietetic Lead – HSE, National Clinical Programme for Diabetes about Diabetes. They discuss the different types of diabetes—Type 1, Type 2, and gestational—highlighting their symptoms and different risk factors. They discuss the importance of early diagnosis and how many people may live undiagnosed for years, only discovering their condition when complications arise. The episode highlights the complexity of diabetes, the important role of self-management, as well as highlighting free resources available. Recognising the diabetes is a serious but treatable condition.

    For more information go to: https://www.diabetes.ie/

    https://www2.hse.ie/conditions/diabetes/

    To get in touch with the podcast email [email protected]

    For the TEST campaign (awareness of symptoms) - https://www.diabetes.ie/living-with-diabetes/child-diabetes/think-type-1-diabetes-think-test/

    Language Matters - https://www.diabetes.ie/living-with-diabetes/child-diabetes/talking-about-diabetes-language-matters/)

    Our diabetes education and support programmes: https://www.diabetes.ie/type-2-diabetes-support-programmes/

    Produced by GKMedia.ie

  • In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, we discuss climate change and sustainability within the Health Service Executive (HSE) with Dr. Philip Crowley, HSE National Director of Wellbeing, Equality, Climate and Global Health, and Roisin Breen, Programme Lead for the HSE Climate Action Programme. They explore the HSE's Climate Action Strategy, aiming for net-zero emissions by 2050, and highlight initiatives like improving energy efficiency, retrofitting buildings, and promoting greener models of care and sustainable transport. The episode underscores the importance of public and staff engagement, collaboration, and proactive measures to address climate change and foster a sustainable healthcare system. For more information go to https://www.hse.ie/eng/about/who/healthbusinessservices/national-health-sustainability-office/climate-change-and-health/hse-climate-action-strategy-2023-50.pdf Produced by GKMedia.ie

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  • In this episode of the HSE Talking Health & Wellbeing Podcast, host Noreen Turley explores the concept of social prescribing with Dr. Sean Owens, a GP and chair of the Climate Health Alliance of Ireland, and Dr. Aleisha Clarke, the HSE National Program Manager for Mental Health and Wellbeing. They explain how social prescribing aims to connect individuals with local community resources to meet their social, emotional, and practical needs and discuss that sometimes it’s not just about medical solutions; it’s about holistic care that considers the whole person moving beyond traditional medical solutions to a more holistic approach to healthcare. Sean acknowledges that integrating social prescribing into primary care requires a cultural shift among healthcare providers. He demonstrates how social prescribing has been successfully integrated into his practice, where link workers have become an essential part of the healthcare team.

    Aleisha explains that the evidence shows that social prescribing can have a range of positive outcomes, including improvements in mental wellbeing, physical health and health behaviours, and reductions in social isolation and loneliness. Aleisha outlines the referral process, noting that individuals over 18 can be referred by a GP, health care professional or individuals can also self-refer. Once referred, they work with a link worker to co-develop a personalised health and wellbeing plan tailored to their specific needs and circumstances. This individualised support is crucial, as link workers take the time to understand each person's unique needs.

    Listeners are encouraged to visit the All-Ireland Social Prescribing website https://www.allirelandsocialprescribing.ie/ to connect with local link workers and start their journey toward accessing community supports. This episode highlights the potential of the social prescribing service in improving health and wellbeing, and advocate for continued development of this innovative service in healthcare. For further information, visit https://www.hse.ie/eng/about/who/healthwellbeing/our-priority-programmes/mental-health-and-wellbeing/social-prescribing/

    To get in touch with the podcast email [email protected]

    Produced by GKMedia.ie

  • In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, host Fergal Fox discusses the importance of planning ahead for healthcare treatment decisions with Caoimhe Gleeson and Suzy Byrne. Caoimhe, the General Manager in the HSE National Office for Human Rights and Equality Policy, highlights the role of Advance Healthcare Directives under the Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) Act 2015, enabling individuals to outline their healthcare treatment decisions. Suzy, a disability activist, stresses the necessity of making healthcare wishes known, especially for individuals with disabilities. The episode emphasises the need for open communication with family and healthcare providers to ensure that one's healthcare preferences are respected and understood. Discussion points include: Advance healthcare directives, Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) Act 2015, Understanding decision-making capacity, Open communication, people whose capacity might be in question, Practical steps, Facilitating discussions.

    For further information go to the website signposts given during the episode such as the Safeguarding Ireland website: https://safeguardingireland.org/

    Check out the information and resources on the Decision Support Service website: https://decisionsupportservice.ie/

    Read further about Advance Care Planning with the Irish Hospice Foundation: https://hospicefoundation.ie/i-need-help/i-want-to-think-ahead/advance-care-planning/

    To get in touch with the podcast email [email protected]

    Produced by GKMedia.ie

  • In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast, host Eamon Keogh discusses childhood obesity with Dr Grace O'Malley, Clinical Lead of the Children's Health Ireland, Child & Adolescent Complex Obesity Service. They talk about the definition, prevalence, and parental concerns regarding childhood obesity. Dr O'Malley emphasises a holistic approach to managing obesity, focusing on overall health rather than just weight loss. She highlights the importance of consulting healthcare professionals, fostering open communication and provides some top tips for parents on how to raise the topic with your child and healthcare professional. Dr O’Malley also discusses the care model and the societal support needed to address this growing health issue.

    Where can parents get information?

    Information about children’s weight on the HSE A to Z website which includes information what to do if you are concerned, having the conversation with your child and advice on healthier habits as a family: https://www2.hse.ie/conditions/childrens-weight/The HSE has a booklet called Talking to Your Child About Weight which is available on www.healthpromotion.ieA comprehensive list of up to date resources for parents and families available on www.childhoodobesity.ie Find more information about community based services here https://youtu.be/dtXHO8_aPJEInformation for families on healthier lifestyles such as physical activity, healthy eating, screen time is available at www.mychild.ieInformation for families on healthy eating including recipes is available at www.safefood.eu

    Where can Healthcare Professionals get information?

    Healthcare professionals can get more information including policy documents, clinical guidelines, professional organisations, research and more by visiting www.childhoodobesity.ieThe HSE Obesity Clinical Programme is available at https://www.hse.ie/eng/about/who/cspd/ncps/obesity/Find more information about community based services here: https://youtu.be/nmwxqIe1-qg

    Please get in touch to find out more about our podcast series or the work of HSE Health and Wellbeing [email protected]

    Produced by GKMedia.ie

  • In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, host Fergal Fox discusses the mental health challenges faced by LGBTQI+ individuals in Ireland. Dr. Matt Kennedy from Belong To and Denise Croke from the HSE share insights from a recent research report revealing high rates of self-harm and suicidal thoughts among LGBTQI+ youth. They emphasise the importance of supportive environments, inclusive education, and the role of allies in fostering acceptance. The episode calls for collective action to create a society where LGBTQI+ individuals feel valued and supported.

    Supports and services available from LGBTQI+ support organisations such as Belong To https://www.belongto.org/, LGBT Ireland https://lgbt.ie/, Transgender Equality Network Ireland https://teni.ie/.

    Freephone Samaritans 116123

    Text About It (text HELLO to 50808)

    Visit the HSE website www.yourmentalhealth.ie for more information on mental health, supports and services.

    Produced by GKMedia.ie

  • In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, host Fergal Fox speaks with Dr. Eithne Hunt, an Occupational Therapist and Lecturer at University College Cork, about practical tips for students to support their health and wellbeing in third level education. This episode is full of useful information for students, parents and teachers or anyone working with young people wishing to advance to third level education. Key topics include the importance of social connections, self-compassion, time management, and sleep. They discuss the challenges students face transitioning to university life and introduce Dr. Hunt's "Everyday Matters" programme. This initiative helps students develop healthy habits and practical skills to enhance their wellbeing. Dr. Hunt shares practical tips and emphasises the value of play and leisure in maintaining mental health and preventing burnout.

    For more information on the work underway by the Higher Education Authority in the area of Healthy Campus click here. To get in touch with the podcast email us at [email protected]

    Produced by GKMedia.ie

  • In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast, Dr. Sean O'Dowd, Consultant Neurologist at TUH, and Clinical Lead at the National Dementia Services, discusses brain health with the host. Dr. O'Dowd, who specialises in cognitive disorders and dementia, explains the functions of different brain parts and emphasises the importance of how we can maintain brain health by making informed lifestyle choices. Dr O'Dowd highlights the brain's neuroplasticity, its ability to change and adapt, and that is it never to early or too late to look after your brain health. He speaks about the positive impact of physical activity, social engagement, and cognitive stimulation on brain health, and the link between hearing loss and dementia. In this episode, he highlights the need for increased awareness of brain health and dementia risk factors. Further information can be found at www.understandtogether.ie.

    Watch our previous podcast episode Dementia - Understand Together https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qH9IbOUQ2_4

    “Think Brain Health Webinar – Discover how healthy behaviour’s support your incredible brain”

    https://hsehealthandwellbeingnews.com/think-brain-health-webinar-discover-how-healthy-behaviours-support-your-incredible-brain/

    If you are concerned about dementia or would like to find local services and support, please call the national helpline provided by the Alzheimer's Society of Ireland for free on 1800 341341 ( Monday to Friday 10am to 5pm, Saturday 10am to 4pm).

    If you would like to get in touch with the podcast or join the HSE Health and Wellbeing mailing list, email [email protected].

    Produced by GKMedia.ie

  • The latest HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast talks about Safefood's latest public health campaign, "#TalkAboutFood which aims to raise awareness about the food environment and its significant impact on children's health.

    Dr Aileen McGloin Director of Nutrition with Safe Food and Norah Campbell, Associate Professor of Marketing at Trinity College Dublin talk about the challenges parents face on a daily basis in the current food environment dominated by unhealthy options. The conversation focusses on the food environment and highlights how it encompasses more than just the availability of food. It includes the broader context in which food choices are made, influenced by marketing, cultural norms, and the physical settings where food is available.

    For more information about #TalkAboutFood visit https://www.safefood.net/healthy-eating/talk-about-food/understanding-food-environment

    Please get in touch to find out more about our podcast series or the work of HSE Health and Wellbeing [email protected]

    Produced by GKMedia.ie

  • The latest HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast talks about the new national physical activity and sedentary behaviour guidelines.

    Professor Elaine Murtagh and Associate Professor Grainne Hayes from the University of Limerick. The episode centres around the newly launched physical activity and sedentary behaviour guidelines, exploring their significance, updates from previous guidelines, and recommendations for various population subgroups, including those with disabilities.

    The conversation highlights the importance of reducing sedentary behaviour, incorporating muscle-strengthening activities, and understanding the intensity of physical activity. Understanding these intensity levels helps individuals gauge their activity and ensure they are meeting the recommended guidelines. For more information about the guidelines visit https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/44751-every-move-counts-national-physical-activity-and-sedentary-behaviour-guidelines-for-ireland/

    Please get in touch to find out more about our podcast series or the work of HSE Health and Wellbeing [email protected]

    Produced by GKMedia.ie

  • In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, host Fergal Fox discusses the impact of screen time on young children with Dr. Gillian Doyle and Dr. Anne-Marie Casey, Senior Clinical Psychologists. They explore how screen time affects health and wellbeing, emphasising the need for mindful use of devices and advice for family conversations about screen habits. The experts highlight the importance of balancing screen time with other developmental activities and suggest guidelines tailored to children's ages and needs. They also discuss the role of parents in modelling healthy behaviours and creating screen-free times to foster better social and emotional development. For more go to: https://www2.hse.ie/babies-children/play/screen-time/

    If you would like to get in touch with the podcast or join the HSE Health and Wellbeing mailing list, email [email protected].

    Produced by GKMedia.ie

  • In this episode, we discuss Healthy Lunchboxes for Kids and much more.

    With school routines starting again and parents getting to grips with what to put into those lunchboxes and what to avoid. Marian McBride, Dietetic Lead, HSE Health & Wellbeing discusses the importance of a balanced diet to ensure children develop a healthy relationship with food.

    With tips on how to introduce healthier foods into children’s daily diets. Marian gives ideas on what to include, recognising that parents are busy, she explains that it’s about frequency and taking those different opportunities to introduce healthier options. For more information and ideas visit: https://www2.hse.ie/living-well/healthy-eating

    If you would like to get in touch with the podcast or join the HSE Health and Wellbeing mailing list, email [email protected].

    Produced by GKMedia.ie

  • In this podcast episode, Dr. Abigail Collins, Consultant in Public Health Medicine and Clinical Lead for the National Healthy Childhood Programme, shares expert advice on preparing children for the school year. The discussion covers preventing and managing common childhood illnesses and building healthy routines, as well as advice for children who are anxious about going back to school. The episode provides practical tips for parents during the busy back-to-school period. To find advice for parents, go to MyChild.ie.

    If you would like to get in touch with the podcast or join the HSE Health and Wellbeing mailing list, email [email protected].

    Produced by GKMedia.ie

  • In this podcast episode hosted by Noreen Turley, Anne Lawlor, Chairperson of the HSE's Patient Forum and founder of the 22q Charity Ireland, and Joe Ryan, HSE National Director of Public Involvement, Culture, and Risk Management, discuss the critical theme of patient partnership in the HSE. They highlight the importance of genuine patient involvement at every level of healthcare, to increasingly ensure that patient experiences and voices shape the design, implementation, and evaluation of future healthcare services.

    Joe emphasises how working in partnership with patients and service users (and their families, carers and supporters) will be a cornerstone of how we work across our health system. This requires a cultural shift but offers numerous opportunities. He explains how the HSE is committed to partnering with patients and how the Better Together framework aims to foster effective patient-professional partnerships.

    Anne highlights how patient partnership can empower individuals and foster a sense of community, benefiting both patients and healthcare professionals. She reflects on the upcoming Patient Partnership Conference, emphasising the importance of balanced representation from patients and healthcare professionals. The conference aims to foster open conversation and learning from patient experiences, creating a space for genuine interaction and shared learning.

    Anne invites the public to join this journey towards a more inclusive healthcare system.

    To find out more and register for the HSE Patient and Public Partnership Conference, "Changing Patient Outcomes: One Partnership at a Time," held on Tuesday, 24th September at Dublin Castle, visit https://www.hsepatientconference.ie/

    Produced by GKMedia.ie

  • In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast, host Fergal Fox moderates a discussion among keynote speakers from the National Health Promotion Conference in Galway. The panel includes experts from Canada, the Netherlands, Ireland, and Finland, who share insights on implementing a systems approach to Mental Health Promotion. Topics covered include the importance of political commitment, evidence-based practices, community engagement, and addressing social determinants of mental health. The speakers highlight successful initiatives in their countries and emphasise the need for long-term investment and cross-sector collaboration to effectively promote mental health and well-being.

    Our podcasts guests were:

    Ms Stephanie Priest, Acting Director General, Centre for Mental Health and Wellbeing, Public Health Agency of CanadaMs Soile Ridanpää, Senior Specialist, Ministry of Social Affairs and Health, FinlandProfessor Laura Shields-Zeeman, Head of Department, Public Mental Health with the Trimbos Institute, the NetherlandsDr. Aleisha Clarke, National Programme Manager, Mental Health & Wellbeing, Health Service ExecutiveProfessor Margaret Barry, Professor of Health Promotion and Public Health, Health Promotion Research Centre & Discipline of Health Promotion, University of Galway

    HSE Health and Wellbeing have worked as a partner in the delivery of this annual conference for many years now. Thanks to all our guests for sharing their time and expertise and in particular to University of Galway, Department of Health Healthy Ireland and the Association of Health Promotion Ireland for their partnership working in the hosting and organising of the conference. If you would like more information about the work of HSE Health and Wellbeing in the area of Mental Health and Wellbeing go to: https://www.hse.ie/eng/about/who/healthwellbeing/our-priority-programmes/mental-health-and-wellbeing/

    If you would like to get in touch about the podcast please email us at [email protected]

    Produced by GKMedia.ie

  • In this episode of the HSE's Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast, host Fergal Fox talks with Roger Warnock, CEO of Young Social Innovators (YSI), about the organisation's efforts to empower young people in Ireland to tackle societal, environmental and health issues through social innovation. They discuss YSI's programmes, such as Activate, which encourages students to create solutions for problems they care about, and the Ignite Community, which reaches out to young people outside the traditional school system. YSI are funded in part by HSE Health and Wellbeing to facilitate youth engagement in many areas of health and wellbeing. Mental health is always a top priority for young people as well as sexual health and vaping, which have been the focus of many projects in recent years. This podcast episode also features experiences from two young individuals from Monaghan College, who share their impactful project on mental health and wellbeing. The conversation underscores YSI's role in fostering youth engagement, confidence, and the drive for change, as well as the organisation's new strategy. For more information go to https://www.youngsocialinnovators.ie/ and to get in touch with the podcast email: [email protected]

    Produced by GKMedia.ie

  • In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast, host Fergal Fox and guest Shane Lynch, a Parenting Facilitator, discuss the crucial role of fatherhood. Shane shares insights from his work at Deansrath Family Centre, emphasising the need to engage men in Parenting Programmes. Despite initial challenges, he highlights the success of using practical activities like gardening to involve fathers. The programmes aim to improve family communication, problem-solving, and emphasise the importance of fathers in their children's lives. Shane also touches on the upcoming Men's Health Week event as he advocates for men's mental health discussions and engagement in health activities. For more information on Parenting Programmes click here: https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/9116d-helplines-parenting-courses-and-advice/ For information on Sláintecare Healthy Communities click here: https://www.hse.ie/eng/about/who/healthwellbeing/slaintecare-healthy-communities/

    To get in touch with the podcast email [email protected]

    Produced by GKMedia.ie

  • In this podcast episode, Specialist in Public Health Dr. Breeda Neville and skin cancer prevention advocate Bernie Rice discuss the SunSmart campaign and the critical importance of skin protection to prevent skin cancer in Ireland. They are working tirelessly to increase awareness of the steps you and your family can take to protect your skin from the sun and reduce your risk of skin cancer. Dr. Neville details the SunSmart campaign and the fight against skin cancer, the protective measures that can be taken and the need for increased awareness in Ireland. Bernie shares her poignant story of losing her daughter Sharon to melanoma skin cancer, reinforcing the campaign's significance. The episode covers the dangers of unregulated tanning products, the special vulnerability of children to UV damage, and strategies for promoting sun safety among outdoor workers. The conversation underscores the value of early detection, education, and personal advocacy in combating skin cancer. More information available at www.hse.ie/sunsmart

    If you would like to get in touch with the podcast or join the HSE Health and Wellbeing mailing list, email [email protected]

    Produced by GKMedia.ie

  • In this podcast episode, host Fergal Fox talks to Kathy Fulcher and Jonathan Deering from Special Olympics Ireland. They discuss Special Olympics Ireland's role in providing sports and health opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Kathy, who is the Health and Wellbeing Coordinator and Jonathon who has been a participant and is now a volunteer and advocate for the work, talk about the organisation's year-round sports programs and the importance of volunteers in supporting athletes and delivering health education. Jonathan shares his personal experiences, including his participation in sports and the positive impact on his life. The episode also covers the health and wellbeing programme, which includes health screenings and education to address health disparities. Kathy and Jonathan highlight the Strong Minds, Happier Lives programme developed with Mental Health Ireland, focusing on mental wellbeing and providing athletes with tools and strategies to manage stress. The episode emphasises the importance of inclusive health projects and the positive effects of sports on mental health. Volunteers are encouraged to get involved through the Special Olympics Ireland website: https://www.specialolympics.ie/

    Produced by GKMedia.ie

  • In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, Dr. Ciaran Boylan and host Noreen Turley explore strategies for managing exam stress. They discuss how to recognise stress in young people, especially during exam times, and offer advice to parents and guardians on how to provide both practical and emotional support. The conversation aims to help parents and guardians assist young people in effectively navigating the pressures of exam times, as Dr. Boylan shares helpful tips such as maintaining normal routines, ensuring nutritious meals and respecting each individual's coping mechanisms. They also emphasise the importance of self-care and managing expectations. Additional support can be found on https://jigsaw.ie/, https://spunout.ie/, or https://www2.hse.ie/mental-health/.

    Produced by GKMedia.ie