Today marks World Kindness Day, and Irish charity Grow Mental Health is using the occasion to remind people that kindness should begin with ourselves. The organisation, which runs free, community-based mental health support groups across Ireland, is encouraging adults to take one small step toward better wellbeing — by reaching out and connecting with others.
Grow Mental Health offers both in-person and online support groups, all free to attend and open to anyone over 18. These meetings, which are supported by the HSE, provide a space for people to share their experiences, set personal goals, and support one another through challenges like anxiety, loneliness, and low mood.
Speaking today, Annabel O’Keeffe, CEO of Grow Mental Health, said that practising self-kindness is one of the simplest but most powerful ways to improve mental wellbeing. “Kindness isn’t only something we show to others — it starts with how we treat ourselves,” she said. “Joining a Grow group is a simple but powerful act of self-kindness. It’s about saying, ‘I deserve support, connection and understanding.’”
Grow’s model is built around community and connection. Research shows that people who take part in peer-led support experience better confidence, coping skills and overall mental health. Each meeting follows a clear structure, allowing members to reflect on their week, share progress and work on self-directed goals.
For anyone struggling right now, Grow says even small acts of self-kindness can make a difference — taking a short walk, writing down what you’re grateful for, or simply giving yourself permission to rest. It also encourages people to reach out to others, whether that’s checking in on a friend or offering to listen without judgement.
While local in-person groups are active across the country, Grow is currently inviting new members to join its online sessions, which make it easy to connect from anywhere in Ireland. These virtual groups are designed to be welcoming and accessible — ideal for anyone who might be nervous about joining in person.
“Whether you’re struggling, feeling stuck, or just need a space to reconnect — this is a gentle first step,” O’Keeffe added. “Taking that step is a true act of kindness toward yourself.”
For people in Ireland looking for mental health support, Grow is one of several free resources available. Others include Samaritans (116 123) for anyone in distress, Pieta (1800 247 247) for those experiencing suicidal thoughts, and Aware (1800 80 48 48) for individuals dealing with depression or anxiety.
This World Kindness Day, the message is simple — start small, reach out, and remember that taking care of yourself is one of the kindest things you can do.
