Hurlers support Mindfit campaign

The County Derry hurling club is preparing to tackle the important issue as the spotlight falls on Men’s Health Week (June 13-19).

Organised by the Men’s Health Forum, the week aims to help improve men’s attitude to looking after their own physical and mental health – sooner rather than later.

The Kevin Lynch club in Dungiven is asking its adult hurlers and members to take part in a Mindfit event organised by mental health charity Niamh.

The club. celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. jointly hosted a health event with St Canice’s GAC last weekend bringing together local statutory organisations, physical and mental health charities to provide information, health checks and tests.

Speaking about why they are supporting the Mindfit campaign, Gerard McGonigle, chairman of Kevin Lynch Hurling Club said: “Niamh is a great organisation offering advice and help for people, especially men.

“We can all take it for granted that our male sporting heroes that so many look up to, are invincible but in fact you are never too big to need or ask for help.

“When I met with Niamh at our club’s recent Health is Wealth event in Dungiven, I was overwhelmed by the services which they offer, there is someone out there that we can turn to in time of need.

“Please men, never ever isolate yourself, Please talk, a burden shared is a burden halved, speak out and walk tall.”

Geoff Scott from Niamh said: “Often men feel they have to be strong enough to struggle on with things on their own and are afraid of been seen as ‘weak’ if they admit they need help or support. Nothing could be further from the truth.

“For any man, having the wisdom to know when you need assistance with something is actually a sign of great strength and insight.”

For information on Niamh and the support it offers through its network of services across Northern Ireland, go to www.niamhwellbeing.org