Sligo Woman Honored as Mental Health Advocate of the Year
Aolish Gormley from Coolaney, Sligo, was yesterday recognized as Mental Health Advocate of the Year at the Evoke Wellness Awards in Dublin for her dedication to maternal mental health.
The award acknowledges Gormley’s work with Ardú, a Sligo-based maternal mental health project focused on peer support for mothers, and the Year of Care Campaign, a national initiative advocating for improved postnatal care. The Year of Care Campaign specifically calls for comprehensive support for mothers throughout the first year after childbirth, extending beyond the traditional six-week check-up. This extended support is crucial as postpartum mental health challenges can emerge or worsen in the months following initial assessments.
“Maternal mental health isn’t just a personal issue it’s a societal one,” Gormley stated. “The first year after giving birth can be incredibly challenging, full of sleepless nights, emotional ups and downs and life-changing adjustments. Every mother deserves care and support during this time. I’m honoured the campaign is being recognised at a national level and ultimately I hope it helps to drive policy decisions and spark conversations our communities urgently need to have, both at a local and national level to prioritise mothers wellbeing.” Further information about maternal mental health resources can be found at HSE Ireland.
Officials stated the award highlights the growing national conversation around postpartum care and the need for increased investment in maternal mental health services. Those interested in learning more about the Year of Care Campaign can visit their website.
