HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing

In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast, we are joined by Professor Roger O’Sullivan and Professor Brian Lawlor to explore loneliness as a significant health and social issue. The discussion covers the different types of loneliness, its impact on mental and physical health, and the importance of meaningful social connections. The guests highlight the need for tailored interventions, challenge common stereotypes, and share practical steps for individuals and communities to foster inclusion and wellbeing. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own connections and support others in building a more connected society. From 17 December 2025, IPH will be known as the All Island Institute of Public Health.

 

Here are some helpful links for further information:

HSE Understand Together Campaign: https://www.hse.ie/eng/dementia-pathways/about/understand-together-programme/

Global Brain Health Institute: https://www.gbhi.org/

All Island Institute of Public Health (IPH): We are the All Island Institute of Public Health (IPH) | All Island Institute of Public Health

 

Produced by GKMedia.ie

In this episode of HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Noreen Turley is joined by Dr Michelle Howard and Dr Niamh Clarke, HSE psychologists involved in developing and delivering the Balancing Stress programme.​ Together they explore sessions 1-3 from the HSE Balancing Stress programme how stress, worry, anxiety and panic can build up in day‑to‑day life, and why recognising personal stress patterns is a key first step in managing them.​

The episode highlights evidence based tools like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and positive psychology and listeners hear about simple breathing; relaxation exercises they can start using immediately to reduce stress and build resilience over time.​ The conversation emphasises that the programme is free, confidential and designed to fit busy lives, so people can dip in and out or move through the six sessions at a pace that suits them.​

 

Produced by GKMedia.ie

In this episode of HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing, host Noreen Turley is joined by Martina Blake, HSE National Lead for Tobacco Free Ireland, and Kirstie White from the HSE Quitline to explore vaping and nicotine products and what they really mean for young people’s health in Ireland. They challenge the idea that it is just “harmless vapour”, highlighting how flavours, colours and clever packaging are used by industry to attract teenagers.

 

The episode introduces the HSE’s Take a Deep Breath campaign, which aims to support parents, schools and communities with up to date, evidence based information on vaping and nicotine products. Martina and Kirsty share practical tips on starting conversations with teenagers, watching out for signs of dependence, and knowing where and when to seek extra help.

Listeners also hear how the HSE Quitline and HSE.ie can support young people who want to quit, offering clear, accessible guidance and signposting to services that can help them navigate the challenges of vaping and nicotine addiction.

 

Produced by GKMedia.ie

In the final episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast for 2025, hosts Fergal, Noreen, and Eamon reflect on a year of inspiring conversations covering diverse health and wellbeing topics. They highlight the courage and authenticity of guests who shared personal stories on issues such as suicide bereavement, cultural diversity, HIV stigma, mental health, and cancer. The episode celebrates the power of storytelling, the importance of community partnerships, and the ongoing commitment to providing accessible, evidence-based advice. Listeners are warmly thanked for their support, with a promise of more insightful episodes in 2026.

 

Produced by GK Media.ie

In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, we explore how ALONE and the HSE’s Enhanced Community Care (ECC) programme collaborate to support older adults in relation to many areas of their health and wellbeing and fundamentally to live well at home. Our guests are Catriona Brennan, Candidate, Advanced Nurse Practitioner, frailty, Gail Flynn, Advanced Nurse Practitioner, older persons, and Aileen O'Reilly, Head of Research, Evaluation and policy at ALONE. Through real-life case studies and expert insights, the discussion highlights the value of comprehensive geriatric assessments, community partnerships, and practical supports - from home adaptations to befriending services. Listeners will gain an understanding of how joined up person-centred care helps older people maintain independence, dignity and wellbeing, while also easing pressure on healthcare services.

 

Produced by GKMedia.ie