Dungiven woman changing the conversation on mental health

In line with the theme of Accelerating Action for International Women's Day 2025, leading Mental Health charity AWARE NI is celebrating four incredible women who are "Accelerating Action" in the mental health space, each making a meaningful impact within their local community.

Mary O'Kane, a staff member and volunteer facilitator at AWARE NI from Dungiven, is bringing much-needed change to the mental health conversation through peer support.

As a facilitator for one of AWARE NI's free-to-attend Support Groups, Mary has heard countless stories of lives transformed.

"One member told me, 'I come here because I'm not judged and because people understand how I'm feeling.' It's heartbreaking that people with mental illnesses feel judged. If he had a physical illness, he would receive love and support without question," Mary reflects.

Mary's personal experience with mental ill-health has deeply influenced her approach.

"Having had my own experience of PTSD from a car accident, I know how difficult it is to open up. The stigma of anxiety and depression added to feeling ashamed, embarrassed, and guilty," she shares.

"That's the problem with mental health challenges—they can sometimes be perceived as a weakness rather than an illness. But the first step to any cure is acceptance and understanding."

Her work with AWARE NI has helped others see that recovery is possible.

"When you come out the other end, you realise just how heavy mental illness is - but that there is help and support available," Mary adds.

Her approach is centred on empathy, compassion, and creating a safe space for people to connect with others who understand what they're going through.

As a facilitator, Mary is constantly reminded of the life-changing power of support groups.

"I've been told by many members that if it hadn't been for the support group, they genuinely didn't think they would be here today," she says.

The impact of these groups is clear, as they provide people with a sense of belonging and connection, which is vital for those struggling with mental health issues.

By fostering safe spaces for open conversations, combatting stigma and creating opportunities for meaningful connection, Mary embodies the spirit of "Accelerating Action" this International Women's Day. Alongside AWARE NI, they are ensuring that more people can access the support and understanding they need.

AWARE was established in 1996 and so has been delivering mental health support services to local people for nearly 30 years. The charity delivers 24 mental health support groups across Northern Ireland in 21 physical locations and three online. These groups provide a safe and supportive space for individuals facing mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder. Led by trained volunteers with lived experience, the groups provide a safe space to share experiences and foster solidarity within the community. With a compassionate approach, the groups promote resilience and well-being among its members, serving as a beacon of hope in difficult times. AWARE also provides a range of training programmes delivered in workplaces, community settings and schools that aim to build resilience and equip people with appropriate skills to manage their mental health. Other services include email and telephone assistance, outreach activities and awareness campaigns.

AWARE NI depends on the generosity of Northern Ireland's public and local businesses in continuing to deliver its essential mental health services. Each support group costs £8,500 per year to run, making fundraising crucial to sustaining this vital community support. To help meet these needs, the charity has planned a range of fundraising events throughout 2025, including the Giant Steps walk, exhilarating abseils, refreshing sea splashes, and engaging golf days. For more information on all fundraising activities and the mental health support available, visit Aware NI.