What is Thrive?

October marks World Mental Health Month, and in Ireland, this year’s theme is Community. In a world that often feels increasingly fragmented and divisive, a sense of community can seem like a thing of the past, but it offers us a grounding force. It’s where we find connection, support, and a sense of belonging. Whether in our personal lives or professional environments, community is the thread that weaves wellbeing into the fabric of everyday life. It’s not just about being surrounded by  people—it’s about being seen, heard, and valued. Why Community Matters for Mental Health While individual resilience and self-care are important, supportive relationships and kinship help us grow these qualities. Research consistently shows that strong social connections are linked to lower rates of anxiety and depression, higher self-esteem, and even longer life expectancy. Healthy relationships provide us with:  Emotional support during times of stress or uncertainty. Shared purpose, which fosters motivation and meaning. Opportunities for growth, through collaboration and learning. A buffer against isolation, which is one of the most significant risk factors for poor mental health. Culturally and historically, Ireland is known for its storytelling and tight-knit community, but in modern Ireland where digital connection and hybrid work models are part of everyday life, our connect to people can feel eroded. Reclaiming and nurturing community is not just a cultural imperative; it’s a mental health one. Our personal community  In our personal lives, community can take many forms: family, friends, neighbours, sports clubs, volunteer groups, or even online spaces. What matters is not the size or structure of the group, but the quality of the relationships within it.  When we engage with communities that reflect our values and interests, we experience a sense of belonging that is deeply protective for our mental health. These spaces become sanctuaries where we can share our joys and burdens, celebrate milestones, and navigate challenges together. Importantly, community also teaches us empathy. By being part of something bigger than ourselves, we learn to listen, to care, and to show up for others.  Our professional community In the workplace, community is often referred to as culture. But it’s more than just business values or team-building days—it’s the everyday lived experience of connection, inclusion, and psychological safety. We spend a significant portion of our lives at work and when that environment fosters community, it can be a powerful source of wellbeing. When it doesn’t, it can contribute to burnout, disengagement, and mental distress. Building community at work means: Creating spaces for genuine connection, not just transactional interactions. Encouraging vulnerability, where people can speak openly about challenges without fear of judgment. Recognising contributions, so individuals feel valued and seen. Supporting mental health proactively, through policies, resources, and leadership that prioritise wellbeing. Leaders play a crucial role here. By modelling empathy, encouraging collaboration, and investing in people, they set the tone for a culture of care. But community-building is everyone’s responsibility. Whether you’re a new hire or a senior executive, you have the power to foster connection, through a kind word, a listening ear, or a shared moment of relatability or humour. Connecting the personal and professional The most resilient communities are those that recognise the whole person. We don’t leave our professional selves at the door when we come home, nor do we stop being people when we are at work. Mental health is holistic, and so too must be our approach to community. Hybrid working models offer both challenges and opportunities in this regard. While remote work can reduce casual interactions, it also invites us to be more intentional about connection. Virtual coffee chats, wellbeing check-ins, and inclusive communication practices can help bridge the gap. Similarly, organisations that support employees’ personal lives, through flexible schedules, family-friendly policies, and mental health resources are investing in community in its fullest sense. Cultivating community It is all well and good creating and acknowledging our need for community but putting it into practice is where we can flourish as human beings. Here are a few ways to cultivate community in your life: Reach out: Send a message to someone you haven’t spoken to in a while. Connection starts with a simple hello. Participate: Join a local group, attend a community event, or volunteer your time. Engagement fosters belonging. Listen deeply: Whether at home or work, make space for others to share. Listening is one of the most powerful acts of care. Celebrate together: Mark achievements, birthdays, and milestones. Shared joy strengthens bonds. Advocate for inclusion: Ensure that your communities—especially professional ones—are welcoming to all, regardless of background or identity. Mental health is not a solo journey. It’s shaped by the people around us, the environments we inhabit, and the connections we nurture that create communities that uplift, support, and empower. Whether in our homes, our workplaces, or our wider society, we all have a role to play in creating spaces where our wellbeing and mental health is being nourish and protected.    Thrive is the Institute's wellbeing hub that provides access to a range of wellbeing supports. For more advice or information, contact the team by email at: thrive@charteredaccountants.ie  or by phone: (+353) 86 0243294. 

Our Thriving Stories series dives into the real-life experiences of members in our profession and what they do to prioritise their wellbeing. In this edition, we hear from Joseph Grant, Financial Accountant External Reporting and Compliance, Primark and past Chair of the ACA Professionals.  What role does physical activity play in your daily routine, and how do you stay motivated to maintain it? Physical activity plays a big part in my daily routine. I attend circuits classes 2 or 3 times a week, I find that classes work well for me as it's a short time commitment and at a set time so I can plan my week around it. Attending classes is a great way to also meet people so there is a social element to it and would recommend it to anyone. I am very lucky that my job also has exercise classes, I attend these on most of my in office days. For me, the fact that the classes are planned for you and at set times helps keep me motivated as I have the time in my diary and just need to show up.   How do you approach nutrition, and what are some of your favourite healthy meals or snacks? I regularly meal prep for the week as working in the office then coming home to cook every night can feel like a chore. The slow cooker is great for meal prep and really takes a lot of the effort out of cooking. My favourite meal in the slow cooker would be a chicken curry, TikTok is great for finding recipes! I have incorporated lots of small changes to my nutrition over the past 12 months, cut out milk from my coffee, sticking to sugar free drinks or dilute. For me small changes overtime have worked well and allow me to be consistent.   How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance, especially during busy times? For me breaks are very important. There are often times during the year I have to work late or work through lunch but I always ensure to take my break even if it's later as this gives you a chance to relax, and sometimes a break from the screen helps you figure out a solution. I also have a great manager who often will you give you a bit of the time back when needed so this really helps balance out those busier times.   What are some self-care practices you incorporate into your life, and how do they benefit you? I don't keep my work emails on my phone, I think its important when you finish for the evening or the weekend you take the time to unwind and put healthy boundaries between work and home life. For me, maintaining the 'to do' things I enjoy are a big part of my self care, be that going to the gym, meeting up with friends or even just taking the time to sit down and watch a movie.

Mental health challenges can affect anyone, at any time. Recognising the early signs of emotional distress is key to preventing more serious issues and maintaining a healthy, fulfilling life. Recognising Depression Depression affects people in different ways, but common signs include: Loss of interest in usual activities Social withdrawal Persistent sadness or hopelessness Feelings of guilt or worthlessness Tearfulness or irritability Physical symptoms like aches, fatigue, or changes in appetite Difficulty concentrating Anxiety often coexists with depression In the 2024 Aware national survey, over half of adults (53%) reported experiencing depression at some point in their lives. The same study found that 20.9% of adults had an official diagnosis of depression. Depression is a very common condition and anyone can experience these feelings, it doesn’t discriminate.  If you’ve felt down or lost interest in things you usually enjoy for more than two weeks, it may be time to seek support. Depression can be triggered by stress, trauma, or life changes—but sometimes it arises without a clear cause. Understanding Anxiety Anxiety is a natural response to stress or perceived threats. It can show up as: Racing thoughts or excessive worry Physical symptoms like a churning stomach, rapid heartbeat, or breathlessness Difficulty concentrating or sleeping Avoidance of certain situations While occasional anxiety is normal, it becomes a concern when it interferes with daily life or feels overwhelming. Taking Action If you recognise these symptoms in yourself: Talk to someone you trust Stay active and eat well Limit alcohol and other unhelpful coping mechanisms Reach out to your GP or support services like Thrive, which offers free, confidential emotional support including counselling and wellness coaching Suicide Prevention: What to Know The CSO estimates over 500 people die by suicide each year in Ireland. If poor mental health is left untreated or an overwhelming situation occurs, suicide ideation can manifest.  Suicidal thoughts often arise when risk factors outweigh protective ones. Risk factors may include: Bereavement or trauma Financial or relationship difficulties Mental health conditions Isolation or lack of support Protective factors include: Strong personal relationships Access to support services Personal resilience and coping skills A sense of purpose or belonging If You’re Struggling: Take suicidal thoughts seriously – don’t dismiss or ignore them Talk to someone immediately – a friend, family member, GP, counsellor, or support service (Mental Health Support Lines: HSE Support Helplines)  Identify your protective factors – relationships, routines, personal strengths, and sources of hope Avoid isolation – stay connected, even if it’s just a short message or call Create a safety plan – list people to contact, coping strategies, and reasons to stay safe Limit access to means – remove or secure anything that could be used for self-harm Seek professional help – early intervention can save lives If someone you care about seems withdrawn, irritable, or overwhelmed, check in with them. You don’t need to have all the answers, just being there and listening can make a difference. If You’re Worried About Someone: Ask them directly - it gives them the chance to open up and to talk. Don't panic and stay calm - the best you can do is to listen to them without judgement or blame. Don’t leave them alone  Help them access support – call a GP, counsellor, or emergency services if needed Follow up – check in regularly to show ongoing support  Whether you're struggling yourself or supporting someone else, early intervention and open conversations can save lives. Help is available and reaching out is a sign of strength. Thrive is the Institute's dedicated wellbeing hub, if you or someone you know are struggling, please know there is help out there. For more advice or information, contact the team by email at: thrive@charteredaccountants.ie  or by phone: (+353) 86 0243294.