In Gaelic Ireland, January 6 is celebrated as ‘Nollaig na mBan’ or ‘Women’s little Christmas’.

The Aisling Centre’s ‘Hope, Healing and Growth’ event, held on this special day, gathered a room full of inspirational women advocating for mental health.

Among them, a strong message of hope echoed through various coping mechanisms for life’s enduring challenges.

Approximately 250 people attended the event, with 90 per cent being women, indicating that men may still be hesitant to discuss mental health openly.

Aideen McGinley, a Director of the Aisling Centre for eight years, welcomed the diverse audience.

Broad audience

She said the event’s purpose was to reach a broad audience and provide a reset amidst personal crises and loneliness.

“We are reaching virtually to people who don’t see too many other people and this event was not just about the people who come to listen and hear and learn, as it is also the speakers themselves, and we have a wonderful alumni of nearly 70 people with Noelle McAlinden, who was a co-founder of this event.”

Ms. McGnley said they had originally planned it as a one-off event but it had gained so much momentum, it has established itself as a part of the calendar.

“We keep in touch with the alumni and they tell us that it is a voyage of discovery for them, and it makes them sit down and think about their story.”

A text from a previous speaker, Joe Slattery – a ‘horse whisperer’ from Limerick – conveyed a powerful message.

“Every day is a new day, and if you are happy, keep on doing what makes you happy. If sometimes you are feeling sad or unmotivated, that is okay too.”

Aideen stressed the universality of the message, as it is applicable to everyone, including those who dedicate themselves to helping others.

Some 11contributors shared their stories during the event, emphasising that even in the toughest times, there are ways to support each other.

Aideen encouraged everyone to step into the light of hope.

In a pre-recorded message, the event’s patron, actor Adrian Dunbar, acknowledged the challenges of Christmas for some and expressed hope that the gathering would be a transformative experience.

“I like to think that these few days at the start of January when we all get together is a bit like stepping into the light, and I hope it has a transformative effect for some of you.

“With everything that is happening in the world today, it is hard for any of us to stay disengaged with the depression and the horrors that are going on.

“But I do think as we get together, and especially for us from Northern Ireland, that we need to remind people that through hope, and healing, even the most intractable problems is possible.

“I wish you all the best. Take care and mind yourself.”