On Thursday, 3rd October, 2024, Minister of State for Mental Health and Older People, Mary Butler, T.D. unveiled two special commemorative stamps from An Post, promoting mental health awareness. The stamps issue ahead of World Mental Health Day, marked on October 10th.
Both stamps feature minimal, bright graphic images to symbolise the importance of nurturing good mental health, practicing self-care and fostering meaningful connections.
Minister for Mental Health & Older People, Mary Butler TD stated: “Any one of us can experience times in which life’s challenges can affect our mental health. It is so important to continue to speak about positive mental health and wellbeing, knowing that recovery is possible, and help is out there. I’m delighted to welcome these two stamps from An Post ahead of World Mental Health Day on October 10th.
This is a day which seeks to raise awareness around mental health, the everyday challenges people can face in coping with difficulties, and the supports available to them. The release of these stamps by An Post will bring great awareness to a really important day for us all and will help end the stigma in speaking openly about our mental health.”
One stamp features the R.O.S.E. model, created by Paula King, which includes key terms for talking about mental health in a positive way: Reason, Optimism, Self-Identity and Empowerment. The second tree-themed stamp illustrates the importance of access to nature, self-care and community for good mental health. Trees are also compelling symbols of growth and self-development.
The stamp designs were created in collaboration with Mental Health Ireland, their CEO, Dr Lisa Cuthbert says: “We’re proud to partner with An Post on a project that has the potential to reach every home in Ireland with the positive message that we all have mental health that will be challenged at certain times in our lives but with support and good social connections, we all have the ability to thrive. The theme of our Mental Health Month campaign during the month of October is the power and importance of making connections – with ourselves, with others, with nature and with our communities. The imagery of the new An Post stamps encompasses this beautifully and opens up the conversation around mental health in an original and creative way which we always welcome.”
Kieran Mulvey, Chairman of An Post says: “This set of stamps send a message that we all need to take care of ourselves, at whatever level we experience good or poor mental health. We can also support our friends, family and colleagues when they have mental ill health – maybe even sending a card with one of these stamps. We are delighted to support Mental Health Awareness and we are aware this is an everyday health issue.”
An Post have also issued a special postmark, which appeared on the front of letters delivered to homes and businesses all over Ireland in the build-up to World Mental Health Day. It featured the Samaritans Freephone service 116123, for people who may need someone to listen and offer emotional support.
The stamps are designed by Image Now along with a First Day Cover envelope. Both ‘N’ rate national stamps (€1.40) cover postage on the island of Ireland and are available in selected post offices nationwide and online at anpost.com/shop.
