International Self-Care Day, 24th July

Self-care doesn’t have to mean making major lifestyle changes.  Small actions, repeated consistently, make the biggest difference. For Garda personnel, self-care may involve:

• Prioritise quality sleep 
• Staying active – even a few minutes of movement during the day helps.  
• Eat Regularly and stay hydrated
• Stay connected with colleagues, family and friends
• Make time to unwind after difficult incidents
• Reach out for support early if you’re struggling
• Exploring more health and wellbeing resources on KOPS

Looking after ourselves also means looking after one another. Checking in with colleagues and encouraging conversations about health and wellbeing helps build a healthier workplace for everyone. 

• Checking in with colleagues
• Listen without judgement
• Familiarise yourself with the supports available in An Garda Síochána
• Encourage people to seek support early
• Help create a workplace environment where talking about health and wellbeing is normal
• Make time to take your annual leave and disconnect where possible. 

• Visit KOPS  for health and wellbeing information and guidance.
• Use your Employee Support Programme (Lena by Inspire) for confidential check-in and support,  available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, Freephone: 1800 817 433.
• Utilise the Movement that Matters Toolkit . Set a reminder on your calendar or phone to do these important micro movements.
• Practice the breathing techniques available to you on KOPs