'It's OK To Not Be Ok' is a documentary by Good Day Cork and Deborah Oniah, a post graduate in trauma studies at UCC.

Deborah, together with three guests - Sibusisiwe Mhlope, Danielle McLaughlin and Sukhi Byrne - have an open and honest conversation about the continuing stigma and shame associated with mental health and whether we accurately assess our own mental health.

This group of women discuss and share what mental health means to them, both on an individual and a cultural level, the importance of naming what you are dealing with, how they gauge their own mental health and what tips and steps they take to maintain good mental health, including seeking and accepting help, be it from friends or through various types of therapy.

Danielle said, "Pretending uses up a lot of energy, energy that could be better spent on other things, like getting better." And, Sibusisiwe adds, “People must normalise listening without judgement and interruption.”

Deborah’s aim is “ to spread ‘awareness, awareness, awareness…” as “mental health is a human need…” She hopes this documentary will begin to change the narrative around mental health, especially in marginalised communities. Danielle adds, “It is in sharing the stories of our lives that we come closer to understanding what other people might be experiencing.”

Deborah also explains, “Everyone needs to get empowered. In this documentary you find many everyday tools for yourself and the people you care about and the best way to support them.” Sukhi commented, “When we normalise the reality of life’s journey - the highs and the lows - we learn that it is ok to not be ok.”

'It's OK To Not Be Ok' was created with support from Career Training Partnerships. Edited by Daniel Clancy and music by Justin Grounds.

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