Small talks can make a big difference to mental wellbeing this World Mental Health Day!

YMCAs across Ireland will again be championing positive mental health throughout October with the return of the ‘Small Talks, Big Difference’ campaign, encouraging meaningful conversations and connections within their communities.

As an organisation deeply rooted in the value of wellbeing, the YMCA champions a holistic approach to health and wellbeing – nurturing body, mind, and spirit. On Friday 10th October 10, 2025, YMCAs will be providing safe, welcoming spaces to kick-start those small but vital conversations, aiming to chip away at the stigma surrounding mental health.

Fostering Wellbeing Through Community

The campaign will see YMCAs hosting a range of activities, including ‘Tea & Talk’ events, wellbeing quizzes, and community walks for staff, volunteers, programme participants, and the wider community. These initiatives cover all areas of YMCA’s work, from childcare and family support to youth work and community groups, highlighting that every YMCA is a place of welcome and wellbeing.

This collective commitment aligns with the World YMCA Vision 2030 for Community Wellbeing, which asserts that every person deserves the means to thrive in body, mind, and spirit. By promoting small talks, YMCAs actively live out their core values, creating opportunities for young people, their families and communities to flourish.

The YMCA in Ireland has operated since 1849, serving children, young people, families, and communities. Working in over 34 communities, the YMCA provides essential services ranging from childcare & family support to youth & advocacy work, as well as education and community programmes.

To find out more about the ‘Small Talks’ campaign or YMCA Ireland, please visit ymca-ireland.net/smalltalks