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.