HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing
- Épisodes
- 150
- Parution
- hebdomadaire
- Dernier épisode
- 11 Nov 2026
À propos du podcast
Listen to the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast with interviews and insights on the work underway by HSE Health and Wellbeing and their partners to deliver on the Healthy Ireland ambition of supporting, protecting and empowering individuals, families and their communities to achieve their full health potential.
Épisodes 150
#164 Helping people with Vision Impairment become more active
At 16, Sean Poland gave up hurling as his central vision deteriorated - then returned to sport through vision-impaired football. In this episode, he and Padraig Healy of Vision Sports Ireland explain how small …
Notes de l’épisode
At 16, Sean Poland gave up hurling as his central vision deteriorated - then returned to sport through vision-impaired football. In this episode, he and Padraig Healy of Vision Sports Ireland explain how small changes can open sport to more people, from giving clear verbal directions to using colour contrast and a simple tether for guided running. They share striking research showing that just 15% of children and 21% of adults with vision impairment meet physical activity guidelines, and discuss practical ways to reduce barriers such as transport, inaccessible facilities and social isolation. Tune in for a grounded conversation about lived experience, inclusive coaching and making local clubs genuinely welcoming. Go to www.visionsports.ie
Produced by GKMediaStudios.com#163 Rethinking Obesity: Stigma, Support and the Future of Care
In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, host Eamon Keogh speaks with Dr Jean O’Connell, Clinical Lead for the HSE Obesity Programme, about understanding obesity as a chronic disease …
Notes de l’épisode
In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, host Eamon Keogh speaks with Dr Jean O’Connell, Clinical Lead for the HSE Obesity Programme, about understanding obesity as a chronic disease, the treatments and supports available in Ireland, and the future of obesity care. Their discussion explores the complex factors that contribute to obesity, and the role of healthy lifestyle supports, medication and bariatric surgery in treatment. Dr O’Connell also addresses the growing attention surrounding weight-loss medications, highlighting the risks of unregulated products, online misinformation and the importance of accessing treatment through qualified health professionals.
The episode examines weight stigma in healthcare and society, emphasising the importance of respectful, compassionate conversations and recognising the individual experiences of people living with obesity. Dr O’Connell shares practical advice for healthcare professionals, outlines progress in improving obesity services in Ireland, and discusses the need for accessible, evidence-based care for everyone who needs it. Listeners are encouraged to seek support from their GP or practice nurse and are reminded that people living with obesity should not have to manage the condition alone.
Links to further information and supports:
- HSE Obesity A to Z
Information on obesity as a chronic disease, treatment options, and how to access HSE obesity services and support.
HSE Obesity A to Z - Irish Coalition for People Living with Obesity (ICPO)
A patient advocacy organisation providing information, education and support and for people living with obesity in Ireland.
ICPO - Centre for Obesity Management (SCHOM)
Information on specialist community obesity services, referral pathways, eligibility criteria and available supports.
SCHOM [https://schcom.ie/] - Healthy Living with CHI Child and Adolescent Obesity Service
Information on specialist assessment and treatment services for children and adolescents with obesity and their families at CHI
Children's Health Ireland Obesity Service
- HSE Obesity A to Z
#162 Why Bowel Screening Matters
Our BowelScreen programme can find cancer early and even prevent it from developing, yet many people are hesitant to take part. In this episode, host Fergal Fox is joined by Head of Public Health Dr Alan Smith …
Notes de l’épisode
Our BowelScreen programme can find cancer early and even prevent it from developing, yet many people are hesitant to take part. In this episode, host Fergal Fox is joined by Head of Public Health Dr Alan Smith, Community Pharmacist Genevieve Morrissey and Patient and Public Partner Mary Kennedy to discuss how Ireland's bowel screening programme works, who is eligible, and why taking part matters. They explore common queries, the support available through community pharmacies, and how early detection can lead to better patient outcomes.
Produced by GKMediaStudios.com#161 Supporting your Teen with Anxiety
In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, host Fergal Fox speaks with experts Rosemary Kavanagh (Speech and Language Therapist), Niamh Garavin (Occupational Therapist), and Muireann …
Notes de l’épisode
In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, host Fergal Fox speaks with experts Rosemary Kavanagh (Speech and Language Therapist), Niamh Garavin (Occupational Therapist), and Muireann Treacy (Clinical Psychologist) about the intricacies of adolescent development, with a particular focus on anxiety. Their discussion addresses the swift changes teenagers experience, the effects of anxiety, and the crucial role of clear communication. Niamh emphasises the value of a supportive atmosphere, while Muireann underscores the importance of active listening and nonverbal cues. The episode also explores co-regulation, the role of social media, and the importance of self-care for parents. Listeners are encouraged to foster open, compassionate relationships with their teenagers and to seek professional help when needed.
Produced by GKMediaStudios.com
#160 Understanding SATU: Care and Support After Sexual Assault
Dan Kane, Forensic Examiner and Obstetrician/Gynaecologist, and Catherine Marsh, Forensic Nurse Examiner and Clinical Innovation Project Coordinator, discuss the care and support available after sexual assault …
Notes de l’épisode
Dan Kane, Forensic Examiner and Obstetrician/Gynaecologist, and Catherine Marsh, Forensic Nurse Examiner and Clinical Innovation Project Coordinator, discuss the care and support available after sexual assault, what people can expect when attending a SATU, and the importance of compassionate, trauma-informed care. A conversation for the public and healthcare professionals alike. Produced by GKMediaStudios.com#159 Patient Partnership: Lived Experience Shaping Healthcare
In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, host Noreen Turley speaks with Mandy Daly, co-founder of the Irish Neonatal Health Alliance (INHA), about the power of equal, meaningful patient …
Notes de l’épisode
In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, host Noreen Turley speaks with Mandy Daly, co-founder of the Irish Neonatal Health Alliance (INHA), about the power of equal, meaningful patient partnership in shaping healthcare, research and policy within our HSE. Drawing on her personal journey as the parent of a premature baby, Mandy shares how lived experience can drive systemic change, from neonatal ambulance services to national clinical guidelines. The conversation explores how patient voices, education and collaboration with healthcare professionals are helping to shape better services, safer clinical trials and stronger healthcare regulation, both here in Ireland and across Europe. Mandy discusses her work with IPPOSI, the PPI toolkit and educational resources that empower patients to become genuine, equal partners in decision-making, and reflects on the trust, communication and compassion needed to build lasting patient-clinician collaboration.
The 4th National Patient and Public Partnership Conference, "From Islands of Partnership to System-Wide Practice and Policy," taking place 15 October 2026 at Croke Park with online tickets still available or visit the HSE Partnership Hub at hsepartnershiphub.ie to find out more about getting involved.
Produced by gkmediastudios.com
#158 Stop Clots. Save Lives. Blood clots and how to prevent them
In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast, we are joined by Dr. Denis O'Keeffe, National Clinical Lead for Venous Thromboembolism (VTE), National Nurse Lead for VTE, Sarah Garvey and Alma …
Notes de l’épisode
In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast, we are joined by Dr. Denis O'Keeffe, National Clinical Lead for Venous Thromboembolism (VTE), National Nurse Lead for VTE, Sarah Garvey and Alma de Bruijn, who bravely shares her experience of developing a serious blood clot during early pregnancy. Together, they explore the risks, symptoms, and treatment of Venous Thromboembolism (VTE), with a particular focus on women's health.
Produced by GK Media Studios
#157 Promoting Health at the Ploughing
Recorded live, at the National Ploughing Championships in County Offaly, this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast brings together voices of health professionals across a number of topics as …
Notes de l’épisode
Recorded live, at the National Ploughing Championships in County Offaly, this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast brings together voices of health professionals across a number of topics as well as members of the public. We also speak briefly with Minister for Health, Jennifer Carroll MacNeill and Minister of State at the Department of Health with responsibility for Public Health, Wellbeing and the National Drugs Strategy, Jennifer Murnane O'Connor.
Host Fergal Fox covers everything from vaping prevention among young people and smoking cessation supports, to sun safety, male fertility, endometriosis care, and mental health awareness. Speaking with both HSE colleagues and partner agencies about their work, the episode will give you a snapshot of the work underway to protect and promote health and wellbeing.
Produced by GK Media Studios#156 Alcohol and Drugs: A Parent’s Guide
In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast, we are joined by Professor Bobby Smyth and Senior Counsellor, Emer Loughrey, to discuss the updated HSE Alcohol and Drugs: A Parent's Guide. They …
Notes de l’épisode
In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast, we are joined by Professor Bobby Smyth and Senior Counsellor, Emer Loughrey, to discuss the updated HSE Alcohol and Drugs: A Parent's Guide. They explore how parents can approach conversations about substance use with their children, covering current trends among young people in Ireland, the risks of adolescent substance use, and the importance of setting clear boundaries. The guests share their expertise and experience in this area and offer practical, reassuring advice on building trust, staying consistent, and being a positive role model.
To download or order you copy of the Alcohol and Drugs: A Parent’s Guide, go to: www.healthpromotion.ieProduced by GK Media Studios
#155 Let's talk about Suicide
In this podcast Ailish O’Neill (National Education and Training Manager with the HSE National Office for Suicide Prevention) and Declan O’Shea (a Lived Experience Contributor) discuss the new, free online …
Notes de l’épisode
In this podcast Ailish O’Neill (National Education and Training Manager with the HSE National Office for Suicide Prevention) and Declan O’Shea (a Lived Experience Contributor) discuss the new, free online suicide prevention training programme from the HSE, ‘Let’s Talk About Suicide’.
'Let’s Talk about Suicide' is an introductory suicide prevention programme, that helps participants to identify others who might be at risk of suicide, confidently ask about the topic, and connect them with resources that can help them stay safe.
It is hoped that ‘Let’s Talk About Suicide’ will help people develop their language and confidence around talking about suicide, and not to be afraid to discuss it openly. In this podcast Ailish and Declan discuss the importance of breaking the stigma associated with suicide, and how people can sometimes be afraid to talk about suicide, because of the sadness and trauma around the subject. Sometimes, people are afraid to say the word ‘suicide’. But by being truly present for a person, and by hearing and validating their feelings, we all have the potential to have a life-saving conversation with someone. Ailish and Declan talk about recognising signs of distress, the importance of clear questioning, and the power of validation and support. The conversation highlights the need for ongoing dialogue about suicide, the power of listening, the effectiveness of support services, and the new programmes role in suicide prevention. Listeners are encouraged to complete the new training programme, and share the episode to help spread awareness.
‘Let’s Talk About’ uses a mix of guided online content, video and interactive questions. You can start and stop the programme at you own convenience. On average, the programme will take 60 minutes to complete, but you can work at your own pace.
· To enrol and complete Let’s Talk About Suicide, visit https://traininghub.nosp.ie/
· Let's Talk About Suicide is suitable for anyone over the age of 18, who wants to learn basic suicide prevention skills.
· It is recommended that anyone recently bereaved, wait 12 months before engaging in this type of suicide prevention training.
If you, or someone you know needs support, visit the HSE site www.yourmentalhealth.ie for information on how to mind your mental health, support others, or to find a support service in your area.
Produced by gkmediastudios.com#154 HSE CEO, Anne O’Connor
In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, we speak with HSE CEO Anne O'Connor about the importance of prevention and community-based care in Ireland's health service. Anne shares her …
Notes de l’épisode
In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, we speak with HSE CEO Anne O'Connor about the importance of prevention and community-based care in Ireland's health service. Anne shares her vision for keeping people well at home through health promotion initiatives delivered by the health service and by our community partners, like Making Every Contact Count, Social Prescribing, and mental health programmes. They also explore digital transformation, health inequalities, and the HSE's new regional structure.
For further information on key supports available go the HSE website and as discussed in the podcast the www.yourmentalhealth.ie webpages.
To get in touch with the podcast or to find out more about HSE Health and Wellbeing email: [email protected]
Produced by GK Media Studios
#153 Healthy Lunchboxes for Kids
In this episode, we discuss Healthy Lunchboxes for Kids and much more. With school routines starting again and parents getting to grips with what to put into those lunchboxes and what to avoid. Marian McBride …
Notes de l’épisode
In this episode, we discuss Healthy Lunchboxes for Kids and much more.
With school routines starting again and parents getting to grips with what to put into those lunchboxes and what to avoid. Marian McBride, Dietetic Lead, HSE Health & Wellbeing discusses the importance of a balanced diet to ensure children develop a healthy relationship with food.
With tips on how to introduce healthier foods into children’s daily diets. Marian gives ideas on what to include, recognising that parents are busy, she explains that it’s about frequency and taking those different opportunities to introduce healthier options. For more information and ideas visit: https://www2.hse.ie/living-well/healthy-eating
If you would like to get in touch with the podcast or join the HSE Health and Wellbeing mailing list, email [email protected].
Produced by GK Media Studios#152 Starting School - Back to School
In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast, host Fergal Fox is joined by Dr. Abigail Collins to help families navigate starting primary school and the back-to-school transition. Dr. Collins …
Notes de l’épisode
In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast, host Fergal Fox is joined by Dr. Abigail Collins to help families navigate starting primary school and the back-to-school transition. Dr. Collins shares practical advice covering everything from managing children's anxiety and separation worries to practical preparations like uniforms, school bags, and lunchboxes. The conversation also touches on important health topics, including vaccinations, when to keep children home when unwell, and good hygiene habits. Throughout, Dr. Collins reminds parents to lean on their support networks and, importantly, to be kind to themselves during this significant milestone. For further information go to www.mychild.ie
Produced by GK Media Studios#151 Compassionate Cultures in Health Care
In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, host Noreen Turley is joined by Professor Michael West to explore how organisational culture shapes the wellbeing of staff and the quality of …
Notes de l’épisode
In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, host Noreen Turley is joined by Professor Michael West to explore how organisational culture shapes the wellbeing of staff and the quality of care across our health services. Drawing on his decades of research and experience with health systems, Michael discusses what compassionate leadership looks like in practice and how it can help create healthier, more supportive cultures for staff, patients and service users. They talk about the realities and pressures facing healthcare staff across many organisations and health systems, how cultures develop and change over time, and the growing evidence for more compassionate, inclusive and partnership-based approaches to leadership that work with staff, patients and service users as genuine partners in care. Michael shares practical, everyday actions – such as listening with real attention, supporting teams, and prioritising staff wellbeing – that can help shift organisational culture and sustain people working in complex, high-demand environments. Whether you are a senior manager, a team lead or working on the frontline, this conversation offers insight, encouragement and very practical ideas to support healthier, more compassionate organisational cultures across our health services.Core behaviours of our culture
Produced by GKMedia.ie
#150 Promoting Wellbeing through Equity
In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, we're taken inside the 30th Annual Health Promotion Conference at the University of Galway, where experts from across Ireland and beyond gathered …
Notes de l’épisode
In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, we're taken inside the 30th Annual Health Promotion Conference at the University of Galway, where experts from across Ireland and beyond gathered to explore health equity and reflect on 40 years since the Ottawa Charter. Keynote speakers, researchers, and practitioners shared insights on tackling structural inequalities, empowering communities, and building cross-sector partnerships. Topics ranged from tobacco control and dementia prevention to youth vaping and the community walking programme, Ireland Lights Up—all united by a commitment to making health promotion more equitable, inclusive, and impactful for everyone.
Produced by GKMedia.ie
#149 Dangers of Sunbeds
In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Well-Being podcast, we speak with Selene Daly Tarpey, Nurse Tutor HSE Centre for Nursing and Midwifery Education Sligo Leitrim West Cavan, about the serious health …
Notes de l’épisode
In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Well-Being podcast, we speak with Selene Daly Tarpey, Nurse Tutor HSE Centre for Nursing and Midwifery Education Sligo Leitrim West Cavan, about the serious health risks of sunbed use and the importance of skin cancer prevention. Selene draws on her dermatology experience to debunk common tanning myths, including the idea that sunbeds boost vitamin D or provide a "safe base tan". She highlights the SunSmart 5 S’s, encourages fake tan as a safer alternative, and addresses social media's influence on tanning culture.
Produced by GKMedia.ie
#148 Men’s Health in the Pharmacy
In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast, we are joined by pharmacists Greg Cleary and Tom Murray to explore men's health in the pharmacy setting. The conversation covers a range of …
Notes de l’épisode
In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast, we are joined by pharmacists Greg Cleary and Tom Murray to explore men's health in the pharmacy setting. The conversation covers a range of important topics, including blood pressure monitoring, smoking cessation, erectile dysfunction, sexual health, cardiovascular health, vaccinations, and mental wellbeing. The pharmacists highlight how pharmacies serve as accessible, confidential, and non-judgmental spaces where men can proactively address their health concerns, encouraging men to take charge of their wellbeing with the support of their local pharmacist.
Produced by GKMedia.ie
#147 Men’s Mental Health
In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast, we welcome award-winning writer, poet, and mental health advocate, Daragh Fleming, for an open and thoughtful conversation about men's mental …
Notes de l’épisode
In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast, we welcome award-winning writer, poet, and mental health advocate, Daragh Fleming, for an open and thoughtful conversation about men's mental health and healthy masculinity. Daragh shares his personal journey through depression, grief, and unhealthy coping mechanisms, exploring how poetry helped him reconnect with his emotions. He challenges rigid ideas of masculinity, encourages men to break away from traditional ideas of what it means to be a man, and highlights the value of creativity in emotional wellbeing. The episode highlights the free counselling and mental health supports available for men through the HSE, insightful for anyone interested in or concerned about men's mental health. For more information on men’s mental health supports go to: https://www2.hse.ie/mental-health/services-support/men/?gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=23016926794&gbraid=0AAAAADtFcVUGKeuTc4JdAQvcaIZs3cuxF&gclid=Cj0KCQjw0JnRBhDJARIsALobnXawgt7h3mY8ectUZR8PnRhwNqscV6UsscJdn0EG1LkP0wgXqHtPqiQaAvO2EALw_wcB#connect-counsellings-phone-service-for-men
Produced by GKMedia.ie
#146 Eczema: Practical Support
In this episode of HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing, host Noreen Turley is joined by Louise Carolan, Registered Advanced Nurse Practitioner in Dermatology at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda, to explain …
Notes de l’épisode
In this episode of HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing, host Noreen Turley is joined by Louise Carolan, Registered Advanced Nurse Practitioner in Dermatology at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda, to explain what eczema is, why it flares, and what really helps. Living with eczema can feel overwhelming, but there are lots of practical ways to get it under control and improve day‑to‑day life. Louise explains the difference between eczema and dermatitis, the most common symptoms in children and adults, and why consistent moisturising and repairing the skin barrier are so important. She shares down‑to‑earth advice on bathing, using emollients and topical steroids safely, managing night‑time itching, navigating sports, school and exams, and when it’s time to see your GP or be referred to dermatology. The episode also highlights trusted supports like hse.ie, the Irish Skin Foundation nurse line and resources, and eczema‑specific online tools to help families and adults feel less alone and more confident in managing this long‑term skin condition
Find trusted eczema information and support at hse.ie, irishskin.ie, Irish Skin Foundation nurse line (01) 486 6280 and the British Skin Foundation and Eczema Care Online
Produced by GKMedia.ie
#145 Skin Cancer Prevention: Be SunSmart
In this podcast episode, Specialist in Public Health Dr. Breeda Neville and skin cancer prevention advocate Bernie Rice join us to discuss the SunSmart campaign and the critical importance of skin protection to …
Notes de l’épisode
In this podcast episode, Specialist in Public Health Dr. Breeda Neville and skin cancer prevention advocate Bernie Rice join us to discuss the SunSmart campaign and the critical importance of skin protection to prevent skin cancer in Ireland. They are working tirelessly to increase awareness of the steps you and your family can take to protect your skin from the sun and reduce your risk of skin cancer. Dr. Neville details the SunSmart campaign and the fight against skin cancer, the protective measures that can be taken and the need for increased awareness in Ireland. Bernie shares her poignant story of losing her daughter Sharon to melanoma skin cancer, reinforcing the campaign's significance. The episode covers the dangers of unregulated tanning products, the special vulnerability of children to UV damage, and strategies for promoting sun safety among outdoor workers. The conversation underscores the value of early detection, education, and personal advocacy in combating skin cancer. More information available at https://www.hse.ie/sunsmart/
To get in touch with the podcast email [email protected]
Produced by GKMedia.ie#144 Understanding Endometriosis in young people
In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast, host Noreen Turley speaks with Kathleen King, HSE National Endometriosis Education Lead, and Cate O’Connor, HSE National Endometriosis Education …
Notes de l’épisode
In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast, host Noreen Turley speaks with Kathleen King, HSE National Endometriosis Education Lead, and Cate O’Connor, HSE National Endometriosis Education Officer, who have developed an educational programme educating young people in school and clubs about periods, pelvic pain and the impact of endometriosis and adenomyosis. They explore how severe menstrual symptoms can affect school, college, work, sport, friendships as well as mental health, and why it is vital to distinguish typical period discomfort from distressing symptoms that regularly disrupt daily activities. Kathleen explains that endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory condition, predominantly found in the pelvis, linked with severe cyclical pain, bowel and bladder problems, fatigue and migraine, and that it can be difficult to diagnose. The guests put a real emphasise on the importance of tracking menstrual symptoms over several months, noticing patterns, and bringing concrete information to GP appointments.
They introduce MISE, the HSE menstrual health and endometriosis education programme for schools, workplaces and sports clubs, adapted from a long‑running New Zealand initiative. MISE aims to normalise conversations about menstrual health, empower young people to understand their bodies, and help parents and teachers recognise when to seek medical advice. The episode also outlines how GPs can use HSE clinical guidance to make a presumptive diagnosis and start treatment, and highlights trusted information sources, including MISE Ireland and HSE.ie
Produced by GKMedia.ie
#143 Tobacco End Game
In this episode of HSE Talk and Health and Wellbeing, host Noreen speaks with Dr. Paul Kavanagh, a public health consultant and adviser to HSE Tobacco Free Ireland. Drawing on personal experience and expert …
Notes de l’épisode
In this episode of HSE Talk and Health and Wellbeing, host Noreen speaks with Dr. Paul Kavanagh, a public health consultant and adviser to HSE Tobacco Free Ireland. Drawing on personal experience and expert knowledge, Dr. Kavanagh explores Ireland's tobacco endgame - the goal of eliminating tobacco harm entirely by 2035. He discusses the ongoing impact of smoking on Irish society, the tobacco industry's influence on policy, and bold strategies such as a tobacco-free generation policy and nicotine reduction in cigarettes. The discussion includes a call to action for public support to eliminate tobacco’s influence and highlights the stop smoking supports available both online and in person for those seeking support to quit.
Produced by GKMedia.ie
#142 How Alcohol Affects Your Brain
In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast, host Noreen Turley talks to Dr Sean O’Dowd, Consultant Neurologist and Clinical Lead for HSE National Dementia Services, and Dr Claire Neill …
Notes de l’épisode
In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast, host Noreen Turley talks to Dr Sean O’Dowd, Consultant Neurologist and Clinical Lead for HSE National Dementia Services, and Dr Claire Neill, Consultant in Public Health Medicine with the National Health Improvement Team. They discuss how alcohol affects the brain in the short and long term, including its impact on mood, sleep and mental health. They also explore alcohol use among young people, why there is no safe level of alcohol for health, and how population-level measures like pricing, availability and marketing restrictions can reduce harm. Drinking alcohol, especially at higher levels over time, can damage brain cells and is linked to a higher risk of dementia. This makes changing your drinking an important way to protect your brain health. Claire and Sean share practical advice on how cutting down on alcohol can improve your sleep, mood, energy and thinking, and how the brain can recover when people reduce or stop drinking. They also highlight supports available if you’re concerned about your drinking. Your GP can help by offering advice, carrying out a brief assessment and, if needed, referring you to HSE drug and alcohol services or counselling. You can also contact the HSE Drugs and Alcohol Helpline on 1800 459 459 or visit Ask About Alcohol for clear, trusted information and support: www.dementia.ie www.askaboutalcohol.ie Produced by GKMedia.ie#141 Baby Talk: Stories, Songs and Support
In this HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing episode, host Noreen Turley talks to neonatal speech and language therapist and SPARK HSCP National Innovation Fellow, Deirdre Bradley, about how reading, talking and …
Notes de l’épisode
In this HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing episode, host Noreen Turley talks to neonatal speech and language therapist and SPARK HSCP National Innovation Fellow, Deirdre Bradley, about how reading, talking and singing to babies from day one can shape their brains, support bonding and boost long‑term language and literacy. Drawing on powerful research and her 20 years’ experience in neonatal care, Deirdre explains how Baby Talk started in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda, and now offer supports and resources to all neonatal units with the support of HSE Spark Innovation, HSE library and community library partners.
Baby Talk is a simple idea transforming care for some of Ireland’s tiniest patients – premature and vulnerable babies in neonatal units. Listeners will hear moving stories of parents, grandparents and staff using books, baby-friendly “Tonie Boxes” and simple songs to comfort babies through long hospital stays and separation, while also easing parental anxiety and supporting mental health. Deirdre shares how this initiative, available to all neonatal units in Ireland, supports the brain and language development of premature and vulnerable babies by encouraging parents to read, sing, and talk to their little ones from the earliest days. From specially selected books and multilingual resources to voice-recording devices that keep families connected, Baby Talk is transforming neonatal care.
Deidre also highlights practical, realistic tips that any parent or carer can start today, reading one short book to a baby demonstrates how everyday moments and familiar voices can add up to over a million words of language exposure before school.
Produced by GKMedia.ie
#140 Digital Mental Health support for young people
In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast, we speak with Joseph Morning, Head of Learning and Curriculum at spunout, about digital mental health resources for young people. Joseph …
Notes de l’épisode
In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast, we speak with Joseph Morning, Head of Learning and Curriculum at spunout, about digital mental health resources for young people. Joseph introduces Navigator, which is a free, anonymous online tool helping 16–25-year-olds find tailored mental health support in Ireland and explains how real young people shaped its development. We also explore spunout's Safer Conversations Online course, which guides users in discussing sensitive topics like suicide and self-harm responsibly on social media. Overall the episode offers a warm, insightful conversation about empowering young people through trusted digital resources. For more detail on spunout’s resources check out:
Navigator: https://spunout.ie/navigator/
Safer Conversations Online: https://spunout.ie/academy/course/view.php?id=24
Produced by GKMedia.ie
#139 Fostering: Opening your Heart, Opening your Home
This episode of HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing explores the real experiences of fostering in Ireland, Noreen Turley is joined Noeleen O'Reilly, foster parent who has welcomed many children into her family …
Notes de l’épisode
This episode of HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing explores the real experiences of fostering in Ireland, Noreen Turley is joined Noeleen O'Reilly, foster parent who has welcomed many children into her family home over the last 20 years and Jacqueline Smyth, Tusla’s national lead for Foster Care. Together they explore what fostering really looks like day to day. Listeners will hear honest reflections on the emotional ups and downs, the impact of trauma, and the difference a safe, stable home can make in a child’s life. The conversation looks at the supports available for foster carers, the importance of working together across services and with birth families and clarifies some of the most common misconceptions about fostering and who is eligible to foster children in Ireland. Whether you are simply curious or actively considering fostering, this episode offers clear, accessible information and signposts on how to find out more about fostering in your area.
To talk to Tusla about fostering as an option - visit fostering.ie, call freephone 1800 226 771 or email [email protected].
Produced by GKMedia.ie
#138 Mental Health Recovery
In this episode of HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing, we speak with Michael Ryan, Head of Mental Health Engagement and Recovery at the HSE. Together, they explore the evolution of mental health services in …
Notes de l’épisode
In this episode of HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing, we speak with Michael Ryan, Head of Mental Health Engagement and Recovery at the HSE. Together, they explore the evolution of mental health services in Ireland, highlighting the shift towards recovery-oriented, person-centred care. Michael shares his personal journey and emphasises the value of lived experience, peer support, and recovery education. The conversation encourages listeners to embrace hope, empowerment, and collaboration in mental health, and invites everyone to view recovery as a shared, ongoing journey.
Produced by GKMedia.ie
#137 Exam Calm for Parents
This episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast, hosted by Noreen Turley and joined by Dr. Jean Sorohan, Senior Clinical Psychologist, offers practical support for parents and carers helping a …
Notes de l’épisode
This episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast, hosted by Noreen Turley and joined by Dr. Jean Sorohan, Senior Clinical Psychologist, offers practical support for parents and carers helping a young person through exam season. Jean shares down-to-earth advice on how to stay calm, ease pressure, build healthy routines, and encourage mindful coping at home. The conversation also touches on neurodivergent inclusion and trusted supports, along with the reminder that one exam does not define you. It is a reassuring conversation for any parent or carer who wants to feel more confident in supporting their young. For supports and further information, visit https://www2.hse.ie/mental-health/services-support/camhs/ or https://www2.hse.ie/mental-health/services-support/primary-care-psychology/
Produced by GKMedia.ie
#136 Radon Awareness
In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast, host Fergal Fox is joined by Dr. Mary O’Mahony to discuss radon; a naturally occurring radioactive gas and the leading source of radiation …
Notes de l’épisode
In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast, host Fergal Fox is joined by Dr. Mary O’Mahony to discuss radon; a naturally occurring radioactive gas and the leading source of radiation exposure in Ireland. They explore radon’s health risks, especially its link to lung cancer, and highlight the importance of testing homes and using radon-proof membranes in new builds. The episode also covers government efforts, prevention strategies, and available resources, while encouraging listeners to take proactive steps to protect themselves and their families from radon exposure. They highlight the increased risk to smokers and also point to HSE Stop Smoking services available on https://www2.hse.ie/living-well/quit-smoking/. For more on Radon go to HSE National Cancer Control Programme website.
Produced by GKMedia.ie
#135 Screen Time & Young People
In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, host Fergal Fox discusses the impact of screen time on young children with Dr. Gillian Doyle and Dr. Anne-Marie Casey, Senior Clinical …
Notes de l’épisode
In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, host Fergal Fox discusses the impact of screen time on young children with Dr. Gillian Doyle and Dr. Anne-Marie Casey, Senior Clinical Psychologists. They explore how screen time affects health and wellbeing, emphasising the need for mindful use of devices and advice for family conversations about screen habits. The experts highlight the importance of balancing screen time with other developmental activities and suggest guidelines tailored to children's ages and needs. They also discuss the role of parents in modelling healthy behaviours and creating screen-free times to foster better social and emotional development. For more go to: https://www2.hse.ie/babies-children/play/screen-time/
If you would like to get in touch with the podcast or join the HSE Health and Wellbeing mailing list, email [email protected].
Produced by GKMedia.ie
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