Access to mental health support in Ireland has long depended on where you live.
In rural counties such as Donegal, Sligo, Mayo, Leitrim, Longford, Cavan and Monaghan, long travel times, limited local services, and stigma around seeking support have left many people feeling isolated and quietly struggling with their mental health.
Now, thanks to online peer support and digital mental health services, people in rural communities are finding new ways to connect, share and heal.
Why is mental health support harder to access in rural areas?
Mental Health Challenges in Rural Communities
People living in rural communities can face unique barriers when it comes to accessing mental health support:
- Geographic isolation: The nearest support group, counsellor, or mental health professional may be located hours away.
- Limited services: Small towns and villages may not have a broad range of mental health resources or services available.
- Transport difficulties: Without regular public transport or access to a car, attending appointments or community groups can be very challenging.
- Stigma: In close-knit communities, where everyone knows each other, fear of judgment or perceived lack of privacy can often prevent people from seeking support for a mental health problem.
These barriers can often mean people in rural areas feel they have no option but to struggle alone with anxiety, depression or other mental health difficulties. Raising awareness of rural mental health difficulties, improving access to supports and reducing stigma are vital steps towards ensuring that nobody is left to cope on their own or will suffer in silence – online help and support is at hand regardless of where someone lives.
What is online mental health support?
Online mental health support can mean many different things: from one-to-one counselling and therapy, to mental health apps, digital recovery programmes, webinars and workshops.
At Grow Mental Health, our focus is on peer support. We provide free weekly peer support groups online via Zoom, where people with varying experiences of mental health challenges come together to share, listen, and support one another.
Our groups are not counselling or therapy. Instead, they offer a safe, confidential and recovery-oriented space where people can connect, learn new coping strategies, and build resilience together.
Joining an online Grow group means you can access support from the comfort of your own home, wherever you are in Ireland, and become part of a welcoming community focused on recovery and wellbeing.
How do online peer support meetings work?
Online peer support meetings work in the same way as an in-person support group, except everything is delivered online through a safe and secure digital platform All online meetings are:
- Confidential and non-judgemental
- Held weekly via Zoom
- Facilitated by peers who understand your life and your journey, having experienced their own mental health difficulties too.
- Open to anyone over 18 years who wants to improve their mental health
You do not need a referral or diagnosis to join a Grow online meeting – you just need the willingness to attend and participate, at your own pace.
What are the benefits of online support for rural communities?
Online peer support meetings have many advantages that make it easier to access mental health support and stay connected:
✅ Overcomes distance – there is no travel needed, you only need to have a smartphone, tablet or laptop – having a screen will allow you to access Grow’s weekly online meetings.
✅ Offers flexibility – you can join from the comfort of your home or from anywhere that is private and comfortable
✅ Reduces isolation – connect with others across the country who understand how you feel and your experiences.
✅ Protects anonymity – meet in a safe, respectful space without worrying about being recognised – everyone is in the meeting to help support their own mental and emotional health
✅ Promotes consistency – weekly meetings help build routine and structure in your recovery journey
Check out our page to see the full benefits of joining a group: https://grow.ie/benefits-of-joining-a-group/
What if I’m not comfortable with technology?
You don’t need to be an expert in technology to join an online group.
If you can make a video call or click a meeting link, you will be ready and able to join an online meeting.
And if you need some help with getting set up, we are more than happy to help you and talk you through the steps.
Are online groups as effective as in-person ones?
Yes. While some people prefer face-to-face meetings, online groups offer the same structure, connection and support as an in-person group.
For people living in remote rural areas, this might be the easiest and best option to access support. In Grow Mental Health we are seeing online meetings make a very positive difference in people’s lives.
What is the cost of an Online Meeting in the North West?
Our online peer support meetings are free of charge. You do not need to have a referral from your GP (family doctor) and we have no waiting lists. You can typically join a meeting within the week.
I live in a rural area and I’m struggling. What should I do?
Firstly, its important to know that you are not alone, and there is support available.
Whether you’re facing anxiety, depression, loneliness, grief, or feel overwhelmed with life in general, joining an online group can be a powerful first step towards feeling better and improving your mental well-being.
Register to join our online support group by clicking the Sign me up button on this page.
Alternatively, you can:
• Email us at [[email protected]]
• Call us on our Info Line: [0818 474 474]
How can I join an online support group?
The easiest way to get started is to sign up and complete our registration form. Just click on the sign me up button on this page.
Alternatively, you can;
• Email us at [[email protected]]
• Call us on our Info Line: [0818 474 474]
If you’re still unsure, you are welcome to reach out for a chat before attending.
Listen to Alan share his personal experience of Online Support Groups with Grow Mental Health...
