At the recent New Script Mental Health Workshop, held during Féile na gCloigíní Gorma on May 19th, community workers, activists, and mental health advocates came together to voice a clear and urgent message: the current mental health system is not working — and it’s time to rewrite the story.

One message came through loud and clear: people feel unheard by those in power. Participants spoke passionately about the need to stop viewing people with mental health challenges as “the problem” and instead adopt a human rights-based approach to care and services. The overwhelming sense was that the system too often reinforces inequality and isolation, especially in already-deprived communities.

What’s working? Community. Grassroots groups are stepping up where services are failing — running walking groups, DIY courses, women’s support circles, arts workshops, and nature based supports. As one participant put it, “motion is lotion.” These community-led efforts are often the lifeline people need, offering not just support, but connection, empowerment, and hope.

But the cracks in the system are impossible to ignore. From three- to five-year waiting lists for ADHD and ASD assessments, to parents forced to leave work due to lack of support for children with additional needs, the impact is devastating. People are getting into debt to access diagnoses.

Six weeks of counselling is offered as a blanket solution, despite the long-term trauma experienced by many — particularly in Northern Ireland post-Troubles. Services aren’t just overstretched; they’re disconnected, cold, and inaccessible.

Activists want to see early intervention, real choice around treatment (especially medication), properly resourced staff, and a joined-up approach to services that sees people as more than just a diagnosis. GPs, hospitals, schools, carers, and community groups all need to be in the same conversation — not working in silos.

The “Give 5” campaign resonated with many as a practical way to put kindness, connection, and community at the heart of mental health. It’s not just about individuals giving to others — it’s about government giving communities what they need to thrive: funding, support, freedom from red tape, and above all, a seat at the table.

The message to policymakers is simple: start listening — really listening. Communities are already leading the way. It’s time the system caught up.