Here’s why we’re asking “How are you?” on May 15th

And here's how to get involved.

"Hello, how are you?"

It's something we say every day, to everyone we meet. We say it to our partners, to our neighbours, to our colleagues, to shopkeepers.

"Hello, how are you?" is a very simple question, but when we ask it in a meaningful way it can open up so much more than just small talk.

On May 15th, Mental Health Ireland are inviting communities all over Ireland to ask their friends and family "Hello, how are you?" in a variety of meaningful ways.

Start the day by asking your neighbours how they are. Take some time at the start of your team meetings to check in with your colleagues. Add the Hello campaign to an existing event or meeting. Host a coffee morning, organise a walk and talk or attend one of the many events taking place up and down the country. For instance, Mental Health Ireland will be marking the day with events in Heuston Station, Cork, Limerick, Galway and Waterford Stations. You can also share what you're doing in group chats and on social media.

You can check out the Hello events happening in your area right here, or register your own here.

So, how can we ask "Hello, how are you?" in a way that can make a real difference? Thankfully, you don't have to be an expert to check in with others, you just have to think of H.E.L.L.O., a super handy mnemonic from Mental Health Ireland so that you feel supported in asking the question.

H: Say Hello

E: Engage with the person

L: Listen actively

L: Learn about what the person is saying to you

O: Talk about options - if something's bothering them deeply, signpost the resources available at MentalHealthIreland.ie.

With these five simple steps, we can turn an everyday question into one that helps keep us connected.

The beauty of this campaign is that you don't have to wait until May 15th to start initiating meaningful conversations with those in your life - you can start right now! And if you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, know that help and support is available. Visit MentalHealthIreland.ie to learn more.

Hello, How Are You? is a campaign about connection and engaging in open conversations about mental health. · On May 15^th the Hello campaign will invite communities all over Ireland to say Hello and ask the question ‘How Are You?’ in a meaningful way. Asking this small question and having one conversation can make a real difference in someone’s life.