Longford audience gains insights into anxiety epidemic

The event was held in the Longford Arms Hotel on Thursday, September 7, with community, voluntary, statutory sectors as well as the public invited to attend.

CLDAF is funded by the Midland Regional Drug and Alcohol Task Force (MRDATF). Membership of the Forum comprises representatives drawn from the local voluntary, community and statutory sectors.

Its aim is to work collaboratively to coordinate the delivery of drug and alcohol awareness initiatives to include promoting the range of services and supports available in county Longford in relation to problem substance misuse.

Dr Harry Barry is an experienced medical doctor and has worked as a Senior GP within the Irish Health System for over thirty five years.

Dr Barry has a particular interest in the area of mental health and the information session he delivered gave an insight into the Anxiety Epidemic present in our communities. He spoke about the causes and types of anxiety, anxiety as experienced across the lifespan and approaches in overcoming anxiety.

In addition he also spoke about the bi-directional link between substance use and mental health.

The presentation was followed by a questions & answers session and those in attendance were given the opportunity to further discuss and seek clarity on relevant matters.

Local service providers were in attendance on the day with information stands and relevant promotional materials available.

This event was a very good opportunity to promote the range of services and support available in County Longford and also a great networking opportunity for services at both a local and county level.

There was fantastic support from the community with students from local secondary schools, members of the general public and professionals all in attendance.

CLDAF wish to thank all who participated and attended the event and they look forward to organising similar events into the future.