Mental health support in Ireland for South Asian communities
Ireland's South Asian community is growing fast. Here is how to get mental health support through the HSE, privately or online.
Start with your GP
In Ireland, your GP is usually the first step. They can assess you, discuss medication and refer you to HSE mental health services or counselling.
HSE services
- Counselling in Primary Care: free short-term counselling for adults with a medical card, through GP referral.
- Community mental health teams: for people with more complex needs, through GP referral.
- Emergency departments: for urgent mental health crises.
Crisis support
- Samaritans: 116 123, free, any time.
- Text 50808: text HELLO for free text support.
- Pieta: 1800 247 247 for people in suicidal distress.
- Emergency: 112 or 999.
Private therapy
Private counsellors and psychotherapists are widely available. Many health insurance plans in Ireland contribute towards private therapy. Check your policy.
Employer support
Many employers offer an employee assistance programme with free counselling sessions.
Challenges for South Asian residents
- Long waits for public services
- Few therapists who speak South Asian languages
- Distance from family, and visa or work permit stress
- Weather and shorter winter days affecting mood
Therapy in your language
Online therapy lets you choose a professional who speaks Urdu, Punjabi, Pashto or English and understands your culture. Fees on Therapy O'Clock are shown in euros before you book.
Questions people ask
How do I get free counselling in Ireland?
If you have a medical card, your GP can refer you to Counselling in Primary Care. Some community services are also free.
What is the mental health crisis number in Ireland?
Samaritans 116 123, text HELLO to 50808, Pieta 1800 247 247, or 112 or 999 in an emergency.
Do I need a GP referral for HSE mental health services?
Usually yes. Your GP is the main route into HSE counselling and community mental health teams.
Does Irish health insurance cover therapy?
Many plans contribute towards private counselling or psychotherapy. Check your policy for mental health benefits.
Can I get therapy in Urdu in Ireland?
Yes. Online therapy on Therapy O'Clock connects people in Ireland with professionals who speak Urdu, Punjabi, Pashto and English.
How long are waits for HSE mental health services?
Waiting times vary by area and service and can be long. Private or online therapy can help in the meantime.
What is Pieta?
An Irish charity providing free support to people in suicidal distress or who self-harm. Call 1800 247 247.
Can the weather in Ireland affect my mood?
Shorter, darker winter days can affect mood for some people. Getting daylight, staying active and talking to someone can help.
Is private therapy in Ireland expensive?
Fees vary. On Therapy O'Clock each professional's fee is shown in euros before you book.
Can my employer help with mental health support?
Many employers offer free confidential counselling through an employee assistance programme.