Health & Well Being  | GBS & GCI

Welcome to Galway, where the salty air mingles with the chatter of friendly locals, and where your adventure as an international language student begins!

As you dive into the rhythm of life in this charming city, it's important to keep your health and well-being in check.

This guide is your companion to navigating Galway's streets, uncovering the best spots and practical tips to keep you feeling your best – physically, mentally, and emotionally. So, let's kick off this journey together, embracing the laid-back vibe of Galway while taking care of ourselves along the way!

GBS GCI Student Services

All GBS GCI studetns can access support at any time via the reception desk or at the individual Student meetings on Tuesday and Wednesdays. These locations are the central hubs for student support services and as well as academic, exam queries and study related topics, they can help with information and guidance on health and well-being resources. All key members of staff are outlined in the first day Orientation meeting so you’ll always know who to talk to!

In addition the school has an emergency support number for any issues that should arise outside of class time or when the school is closed. This number is located conveniently at the bottom of your GBS GCI student card!

If you are struggling an need to talk to a professional, we have a strong relation with our local Medical Centre and can help with arranging docotor’s appointments. Or if you need to talk, we have an external counsellor who you can arrange a meeting with for an additional level of support.

GCI Top 6 Tips for Staying Healthy and Happy in Galway, Ireland

  1. Get Out and About: Galway's got the goods when it comes to natural beauty. Take breaks between classes to hit up Salthill Promenade for a breath of fresh sea air or lounge on Silver Strand Beach. Connemara National Park is also a gem for scenic hikes. Getting outside does wonders for your mood!
  2. Eat Local, Feel Great: Galway's food scene is buzzing with deliciousness. Swing by Galway Market for farm-fresh goodies or cozy up in a pub like The Quays for hearty Irish fare. Opt for local ingredients to keep your energy up for those study sessions.
  3. Stay Moving: Keep those endorphins flowing by finding ways to stay active. Whether it's hitting the gym, joining a yoga class, or kicking a ball around in the park, Galway has plenty of options to keep you moving and grooving.
  4. Mind Your Mind: Adjusting to a new place can be tough. Don't hesitate to reach out to campus counselors or local support groups if you're feeling overwhelmed. And remember to take time for yourself—whether it's through meditation, journaling, or just chilling out.
  5. Connect and Conquer: Building connections is key to making your time in Galway unforgettable. Hit up language exchange events, join clubs, or check out cultural festivals to meet new faces and make lifelong pals. Having a support system makes all the difference!
  6. Find Your Chill: While studying is important, so is taking time for fun. Galway's arts scene is buzzing with live music, theater, and more. So, make sure to balance those books with some well-deserved downtime.

Ireland offers various support services to help students cope with stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. Here's a brief guide to some of the key resources available:

  1. Samaritans
    • Website: Samaritans Ireland
    • Phone: 116 123 (Freephone)
    • Description: Samaritans provides confidential emotional support for people experiencing feelings of distress or despair, including those which may lead to suicide.
  2. Pieta House
    • Website: Pieta House
    • Phone: 1800 247 247 (Freephone)
    • Description: Pieta House offers free, professional therapy to people experiencing suicidal ideation, engaging in self-harm, or bereaved by suicide.
  3. Aware
    • Website: Aware
    • Phone: 1800 80 48 48 (Freephone)
    • Description: Aware provides support, information, and education around depression and bipolar disorder, including support groups, online support, and a helpline.
  4. Jigsaw
    • Website: Jigsaw
    • Description: Jigsaw provides a range of mental health supports for young people aged 12-25, including counseling, online resources, and workshops.
  5. Shine
    • Website: Shine
    • Phone: 01 541 3715
    • Description: Shine supports individuals and families affected by mental ill-health, offering services such as counseling, support groups, and advocacy.
  6. SpunOut.ie
    • Website: SpunOut.ie
    • Description: SpunOut.ie provides information, support, and resources for young people on a range of topics, including mental health, relationships, and well-being.
  7. ReachOut
    • Website: ReachOut
    • Description: ReachOut offers articles, stories, forums, and practical tools on mental health and well-being, aimed at young people.
  8. Your Mental Health
    • Website: Your Mental Health
    • Description: Your Mental Health is a collaboration of HSE Health and Wellbeing, Jigsaw, and the National Office for Suicide Prevention, providing information, support, and services for mental health issues.

These services offer a range of support options for individuals experiencing mental health difficulties in Ireland. It's important to reach out if you or someone you know is struggling, as help is available.