HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing

#88 Declutter Your Mind

In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, host Noreen Turley is joined by Peadar Maxwell,  Senior Psychologist in the HSE. They explore the concept of "mind clutter"; those overwhelming thoughts and distractions that often lead to stress, anxiety, and difficulty concentrating. Peadar shares valuable insights on the symptoms of mind clutter and how it can impact mental clarity and overall wellbeing. The conversation explores practical strategies for managing mental clutter, including mindfulness, visualisation, journaling, and pioritising self-care practices. Peadar also emphasises the importance of making “good enough” decisions to reduce the pressure of perfectionism. These simple steps can help people regain focus and improve their mental wellbeing. If you are looking for ways to clear mind fog and manage stress more effectively, this episode is filled with practical advice to help you declutter your mind.
 
For supports and services visit www.yourmentalhealth.ie 
 
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#87 Keeping a Healthy Smile

In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, Dr Anne O’Neill, Oral Health Lead, HSE, talks about the importance of dental check-ups and the significant connection between oral health and overall well-being.
 
Dr. O'Neill provides practical tips on brushing and flossing, highlighting the impact of diet on dental health, providing tips for parents when it comes to their children’s dental routines and about building in regular daily times to do those small oral health habits at a young age.
 
The discussion also focuses on changes to dental practices, specifically about how dental amalgam is no longer being used in fillings, due to a new EU directive. For more information visit www.brushmyteeth.ie
 
To get in touch with the podcast email Healthandwellbeing.communication@hse.ie
 
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#86 The Truth about Alcohol & Cancer

In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, the discussion features insights from Dr. Breeda Neville, Public Health Specialist and Dr. Sheila Gilheany, CEO of Alcohol Action Ireland.
The conversation centred around the significant public health issues associated with alcohol use, particularly its links to cancer. We discuss the new alcohol labelling laws which aim to provide consumers with clear and unbiased information about the products they consume. The call to action from Dr. Neville encourages listeners to consider the immediate benefits of reducing alcohol consumption, such as improved physical and mental health, better sleep, and enhanced relationships. 
Both Sheila and Breeda agreed that healthcare professionals can play a crucial role in raising awareness and they encouraged health care staff to engage patients in conversations about their alcohol use.
Sheila also outlines the challenges posed by the alcohol industry where the marketing used can in some cases obscure the serious health risks associated with alcohol consumption. 
 
Listen and share wherever you get your Podcasts or watch on the HSE Health and Wellbeing YouTube channel.
 
Ask About Alcohol - www.askaboutalcohol.ie
NCCP - https://www.hse.ie/eng/services/list/5/cancer/
Alcohol Action Ireland: Home - Alcohol Action Ireland
HSE Drug and Alcohol Helpline Drugs and Alcohol Helpline - HSE.ie
 
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#85 You, Me & HIV

In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, we have a discussion on the "You, Me and HIV" campaign, focusing on HIV awareness and stigma reduction. Guests include Dr. Robbie Lawler and Veda Lady, both HIV activists and co-hosts of the Poz Vibe podcast, who share their personal experiences and highlight the importance of community support. Professor Fiona Lyons, HSE Clinical Lead of the Sexual Health Programme, discusses advancements in HIV treatment and the need to dismantle stigma in healthcare. The episode highlights the significance of representation, allyship, and the message "Undetectable = Untransmittable" (U=U).
 
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#84 Farmer Wellbeing

In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, we discuss Farmer Wellbeing with Dr. John McNamara from Teagasc, and Finola Colgan from Mental Health Ireland. They explore the unique mental health challenges farmers face, the importance of health and safety, and initiatives to support their wellbeing. Key topics include the difficulty of accessing mental health services in rural areas, the significance of community engagement, and programmes like Farm Connect and On Feirm Ground, that provide resources and training to improve farmers' mental health and overall wellbeing.
 
For further information go to the link from Teagasc: https://www.teagasc.ie/rural-economy/farm-management/farm-health--safety/farmer-health/
The Mental Health Ireland website also has useful information and resources: https://www.mentalhealthireland.ie/resources/
To access the On Feirm Ground Training Programme connect with the Men’s Development Network: https://engagetraining.ie/programmes/on-feirm-ground-2/
 
 
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#83 Patient Voices Shaping Healthcare

In this episode, we speak to John Wall, a dedicated healthcare campaigner, about his personal journey as a patient advocate. From overcoming challenges to building trust and fostering collaboration, John highlights the significance of Patient Partnership in healthcare decision-making. He discusses his role on the local Programme Improvement Board, the growing inclusion of patient voices, and the importance of clear communication and mutual respect between healthcare professionals and patients. With a vision for a more structured approach to patient involvement, John shares valuable insights and inspires listeners to engage and contribute to shaping a responsive and inclusive healthcare system in the HSE. 
For more information on this work in the HSE go to https://www.hse.ie/eng/about/who/national-services/partnering-with-patients/.
 
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#82 Healthy New Year

In the first 2025 episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, host Fergal Fox, along with Health Promotion and Improvement colleagues Sean Conneely and Nollaig Ní Chárthaigh, discuss strategies for a Healthy New Year. They emphasise the importance of New Year's resolutions, behavior change, and community support in achieving health goals. Key topics include setting realistic goals, mental wellbeing, quitting smoking, healthy eating, and physical activity. The speakers highlight the significance of gradual changes, utilising local resources, and fostering social connections. They also touch on mental health supports, stress management, and the importance of sleep, providing listeners with practical advice and support resources.
 
For more information on the resources referenced in the episode go to:
HSE https://www.hse.ie/eng/about/who/healthwellbeing/
Safefood website https://www.safefood.net/home?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiAvoqsBhB9EiwA9XTWGameewKwRv4cubP6L-l7t2whLcTjk8YQU780NdfxdHh4xlT1MWKcTxoCZi0QAvD_BwE
ParkRun https://www.parkrun.ie/
Sport Ireland https://www.sportireland.ie/
Quit.ie https://www2.hse.ie/living-well/quit-smoking/
Minding Your Wellbeing https://www2.hse.ie/healthy-you/minding-your-wellbeing-programme.html
yourmentalhealth.ie https://www2.hse.ie/mental-health/
#healthandwellbeing #healthylifestyle #parkrun #healthyfood #sport #health #2025
 
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#81 A Lookback on 2024

In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, hosts Fergal Fox, Noreen Turley and Eamon Keogh reflect on the podcast's achievements in 2024. They discuss the diverse range of topics covered, such as obesity, menopause, health equity, and LGBTQ+ issues, and highlight specific impactful episodes. The hosts emphasise the importance of providing a platform for healthcare professionals to share their expertise and the positive engagement from listeners. They also express excitement for future episodes and ongoing discussions around health and wellbeing, aiming to continue their mission of educating and supporting the community. All podcast episodes are available through this link https://www.hse.ie/eng/about/who/healthwellbeing/hse-talking-health-and-wellbeing-podcast/
 
To get in touch with the podcast email Healthandwellbeing.communication@hse.ie
 
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#80 Heart Health - Prevention to Care

In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, we discuss Heart Health with Janis Morrissey, Director of Health Promotion Information and Training at the Irish Heart Foundation, delving into the causes and risk factors of heart disease and stroke. Janis emphasises the importance of both individual lifestyle changes and systemic policy interventions to improve heart health. She highlights the Irish Heart Foundation's efforts in advocacy, prevention, public education, and support services. For more information go to: www.irishheart.ie or https://www2.hse.ie/conditions/coronary-heart-disease-chd/causes/
 
To get in touch with the podcast email Healthandwellbeing.communication@hse.ie
 
Produced by GKMedia.ie

#79 Winter Wellness for Older People

In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, Dr. Rory Nee, Consultant Physician in Geriatric Medicine and Integrated Care Program for Older People (ICPOP), and Aoife Quinn, Clinical Nurse Manager (ICPOP), discuss essential strategies to help older adults stay healthy and well during the winter season. Rory and Aoife share practical tips for maintaining health and well-being such as staying up-to-date with vaccinations, managing medications, preventing falls, and combating loneliness. They emphasise the importance of nutrition, regular exercise, staying warm, and fostering family and community connections for mental and brain health. This episode explores the valuable role of the Integrated Care Program for Older People in providing home-based support to prevent hospital admissions and create a safe, thriving environment for older adults in their own homes. Tune in to learn how small, proactive steps can make a big impact on the health and wellness of older people this winter. 
Further information available at http://www.hse.ie/ecc and https://www2.hse.ie/living-well/winter/older-people/
 
To get in touch with the podcast email Healthandwellbeing.communication@hse.ie
 
Produced by GKMedia.ie