Seán Canney TD, Minister of State for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports and Leader in Cabinet of the Independent Ministers, is encouraging men to reach out for support if they are struggling with their mental health, as new figures show more than 2,000 men have already accessed the Government’s free counselling initiative since it launched last September.

The initiative was established to make it easier for men to access counselling and mental health supports, recognising that while men are often less likely to seek help, they account for around 80% of deaths by suicide in Ireland.

Since the service began in September 2025, more than 13,300 counselling sessions have been delivered through the HSE’s Counselling in Primary Care service and partner organisation MyMind. The initiative is supported by €2 million in recurring funding secured through Budget 2025.

Marking Men’s Health Week, Minister Canney said the strong uptake shows that more men are taking positive steps to look after their mental wellbeing.

“We know that many men can find it difficult to talk about what they are going through. Too often people carry worries, stress, anxiety or depression on their own. These services are there to make sure support is available when it is needed and without cost being a barrier.”

Minister Canney said the initiative has focused on removing obstacles that can prevent men from seeking support and ensuring services are available in ways that work for them.

“One of the most encouraging aspects of this initiative is that it has been designed specifically around the needs of men. Whether that is through GP referral, a dedicated counselling phone line or community-based supports, the aim is to make it as easy as possible for someone to take that first step.

The Connect Counselling freephone service (1800 577 577) has also been expanded to operate seven days a week, giving men another straightforward route to access support.

Full details of the free counselling supports available to men can be found at yourmentalhealth.ie/men.