Celebrate the power of meaningful connection

Members of the public, students, community organisations and mental health advocates gathered at the Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) Campus in Thurles for the flagship event 'Creating Meaningful Connections', a celebration of the important role that connection, belonging and community play in supporting positive mental health and wellbeing.

The event was officially opened by the Cathaoirleach of Tipperary County Council, Councillor Fiona Bonfield, who welcomed attendees and spoke about the importance of creating opportunities for people to come together, build relationships and access support within their communities.

Hosted by Rosemary Ryan (Area Lead Mental Health Engagement, HSE), the event encouraged participants to reflect on how meaningful connections can help build resilience, reduce isolation and support recovery. Throughout the morning, attendees heard powerful personal stories, explored local supports and took part in practical workshops designed to encourage connection and wellbeing.

A highlight of the event was the contribution of three guest speakers whose lived experiences and personal insights resonated strongly with those in attendance. Cllr Michael Brennan shared his own personal journey and reflected on the reality that recovery is possible, even through life’s most difficult challenges. Drawing on both lived experience and a family tradition of public service in Tipperary, he spoke openly about mental health, addiction, recovery and the importance of community support, delivering a message of hope that inspired many in the audience.

Karl Clancy, writer, speaker and self-declared 'Everyday Mystic', explored mental health through self-reflection, healing and personal growth. Speaking with honesty and warmth, Karl challenged each attendee to consider the rating they put on their own mental health at this moment in time and the importance of reaching out, connecting, and opening up to others in times of need.

PERSONAL REFLECTION

Cathal O’Reilly, author, poet, and musician from Clonmel, drew on his lived experience and creative work with students and young people. Through storytelling and personal reflection, Cathal highlighted how creativity, self-expression and community can play a powerful role in supporting mental wellbeing. His contribution offered both inspiration and practical encouragement to students and attendees facing challenges in their own lives.

Alongside the speakers, attendees had the opportunity to meet and engage with a range of organisations and support services including Healthy Tipperary, Tipperary Sports

Partnership, North Tipperary Development Company SICAP Team, Tipperary Library Service, Foróige, Tipperary Holistic Health Network, Jigsaw, Youth Work Ireland and Tipperary Infant Mental Health Steering Group.

The event was held in collaboration with the TUS Mental Health Fair, organised by TUS Student Counselling Services, creating a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere across the campus. Students, staff and members of the public had the chance to connect with services, learn about available supports and participate in activities throughout the day.

Attendees also took part in a series of interactive workshops including a Volunteer Workshop delivered by the Tipperary Volunteer Centre, a Connect Café Workshop facilitated by Mental Health Ireland, and a Mindfulness and Meditation Workshop hosted by TUS Student Counselling Services. The workshops provided practical tools and opportunities for attendees to explore ways of improving wellbeing and strengthening connections in everyday life.

The day's programme concluded with a thought-provoking panel discussion hosted by Cillian Keane of Mental Health Ireland. Panelists Niamh Murphy (TUS Student Counselling Services), Clodagh Ryan (Author and Mental Health Advocate), Gina Delaney (Mental Health Ireland) and Rachel Connolly (Social Prescribing Clonmel), explored how meaningful social connection can support wellbeing, reduce isolation and help people access support within their communities.

Speaking after the event, organisers from the Tipperary Mental Health Network expressed their appreciation to all speakers, workshop facilitators, exhibitors, volunteers and attendees who contributed to the success of the day.

“The theme of Creating Meaningful Connections reminds us that mental health is everyone’s business. Whether it’s through volunteering, joining a local group, supporting a friend or neighbour or simply taking time to listen, meaningful connections can make a real difference. The positive atmosphere and collaboration across services throughout the day demonstrated the power of communities coming together to support wellbeing across Tipperary.”

The event formed part of a wider programme of activities taking place throughout Tipperary Mental Health Week 2026, which aims to raise awareness of mental health, reduce stigma and encourage people to connect with the supports and opportunities available across County Tipperary.