Hello, How Are You?

Thurs 15th May2025

Hello, How Are You? campaign on Thursday 15^th May 2025 is about connecting with those around us and engaging in open conversations about mental health. It’s about asking the question, ‘How Are You?’ with meaning, and really listening to the response.

The Mental Health Ireland HELLO, How Are You? campaign aims to tackle the lack of connection or belonging that people experience by inspiring individuals to ask how others are feeling. This opens up a conversation to allow people to listen and encourage action by signposting to local supports and services.

The unique premise of this campaign is to encourage people to not just ask the question but to support people in knowing what to do next. There are five steps to saying H.E.L.L.O. and asking the question.

H – Say Hello. This encourages starting the conversation, asking the question, using open ended questions and choosing the right place to talk.

E – Engage with the person. This is about being friendly and engaging and using inviting body language

L – Listen to the person. Be relaxed and show that you are listening by nodding appropriately, and asking open ended questions that will give you more of the story.

L – Learn about the person. Let the person know you have listened by repeating back what you have heard them say. Ask if they are aware of supports available and have that information to hand. Example of supports include Self Help Groups like AWARE, GROW, SHINE, their Family Resource Centres, GP etc. Find details on local supports by going to www.yourmentalhealth.ie.

O – Ongoing support. Check back in with the person and see how they are getting on.

We in SOFT appreciate this and think it is a good idea so got ahead and talk to someone and see how you get on!