Bacterial meningitis will kill one in ten people who contract it. 16-24 year olds are the second highest at-risk age group to contract the disease. Of those who survive one in five are left with after effects which can include brain damage, amputation and hearing loss. Meningitis can kill the person who contracts it within 24 hours. It a serious disease and knowing the signs and symptoms could save a life.

Students are the second most at risk age group to contract meningitis. The bacteria which causes meningitis is spread through:

Because of this, the risks in colleges and universities are increased due to the close proximity in which they study and live, as their social interactions with each other are increased throughout this period. Meningitis is particularly dangerous as it can present itself with similar symptoms to a hangover or flu and can develop in a very short time. Symptoms of meningitis in young adults/adults can include;

*There is a common misconception about the rash – it is commonly misunderstood that meningitis always produces a rash. This is in fact NOT TRUE and the rash is not always present. We ask people NOT to wait for a rash if they suspect meningitis.

For some students, this year will be their first time living away from home and their parents’ watchful eye. As with most students, their health and well being is not prioritised. It is easy for the signs and symptoms to go unnoticed, or to be mistaken for something else. This is why student education around the disease is so important.

ACT for Meningitis staff visited colleges and universities all over Ireland, as part of our new annual student campaign. ACT visited campuses all over the country, setting pop-up awareness stands and handing out wristbands and awareness cards free of charge to students. The wristbands were very well received amongst students and displayed our website and the campaign slogan “Be assertive, it’s your life”. The awareness cards provided students with information on the signs and symptoms of meningitis and information surrounding the misconception of the rash.

As part of the campaign, ACT for Meningitis also launched a beermat which reads “It might not be a hangover” to supply student bars with as meningitis can present itself like a severe hangover. The beermats were launched nationally through the media, with the help of Love Hate star Peter Coonan, better known as Fran in the series. These have been distributed to student bars on and off campuses across the country, with great reception.

Be assertive, it’s your life

If you would like any more information about meningitis or would like ACT to visit your school, college, youth group etc. to hold an awareness talk. Visit our website or visit our Facebook page or call our office. Also if you have been affected by meningitis and wish to avail of our free support services please do not hesitate to contact us 091-380058.

Having regularly suffered migraines and stomach complaints for almost nine years without any clear indication of the cause, clarity raised its head for me with most unfortunate timing: on a sunny Easter Saturday, with a stash of chocolate eggs ready to be indulged, I was told I was lactose intolerant.

In hindsight, several signs had shown: I’d had regular colds and chest infections, often stated as a symptom of lactose intolerance in young children, while a trend had also developed whereby I’d have to be taken home from school with a migraine just a few hours after drinking a small carton of milk.

As well as being treated by my GP, I had attended an array of medical professionals over the years in search of a conclusive explanation as to the cause of these annoyances. No such answers had been forthcoming, however, until a light was shone on how some of the foods I loved were affecting me.

Food intolerances can still be viewed with scepticism by some established medical professionals however, information published by the UK’s National Health Service indicates they are beginning to gain official recognition and visibility. While it’s undoubtedly important that any potential underlying medical condition is tested for when a patient experiences recurring issues when these can be ruled out perhaps it’s just a matter that certain foods don’t agree with that patient’s bodily systems.

The two terms are frequently used interchangeably, however, a food allergy differs from a food intolerance in so far as an allergic reaction can be life-threatening and can come on very suddenly. This is not usually the case with reactions of intolerance, which generally affect just the body’s digestive system, whereas an allergy causes an immune system reaction that affects numerous organs in the body.
Common food intolerances include to yeast, wheat, gluten, dairy and from a drinks perspective, to alcohol. Intolerances often run in families, while often those with sensitive digestive systems find they experience many simultaneously.  

Excluding dairy from my diet at a young age may have ended my pattern of regular migraines and stomach complaints. In the years that followed, I became frequently bloated and fatigued, while regular colds also hinted towards a weakened immune system. Follow-up visits to food allergy testing services revealed these feelings were likely the result of further intolerances, this time to yeast, gluten and wheat.

Before I attended those allergy-testing services, I had an idea that my symptoms may be brought on by food but it was very difficult to pinpoint the aggravating food type. The only true way of testing whether a food is triggering unwanted symptoms is to try excluding it from your diet for some time. Fortunately for me, once my body had cleared itself of the residue of these foods in my system, my symptoms appeared to disappear almost instantly.

If this isn’t the case when you try an exclusion diet, it’s worth exploring whether your difficulties may be the result of other digestive disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome or coeliac disease, as these can produce similar symptoms and thus be hard to tell apart from food intolerances at first.

When you do exclude a food from your diet, whether out of choice or lack thereof, it’s important to ensure you don’t suffer further as a result of missing out on an essential nutrient. This was especially important for me in adapting to a dairy-free diet at a young age. To ensure I maintained a strong calcium intake, I began taking a supplement as I learnt to enjoy rice milk, soya yoghurts, goats’ cheese and sorbet.

It can be difficult to strictly adhere to a diet without dairy, yeast, gluten or wheat but luckily diet-proof foods, particularly gluten-free, have become something of a foodie phenomenon recently. They’re a hit with artisan food producers, who are busy making delicious treats everyone can enjoy, while several supermarkets and even convenience stores now stock their own range of gluten, wheat and dairy-free biscuits, cereals, pasta, yoghurts, flour and even crisps and chocolate.

It’s recommended that you visit your GP first if you believe you may be experiencing symptoms as a result of a food intolerance, while further information can also be accessed on the websites of the HSE and NHS.

I used to stand in front of the mirror and hate the way I looked. Pulling at the rolls of fat in upset and desperation, wishing more than anything they would evaporate and disappear. I hated it all, my huge chunky thighs and my expansive seemingly never-ending tummy. This big balloon of milk-bottle coloured flesh, that resembled a pregnancy bump more than a stomach.

Changing rooms were a nightmare. Trying to find the sizes towards the larger end of things, searching for baggy and loose fitting tops. Nothing clingy, never clingy, nothing tight or anything figure-hugging. As I hit college and started going out and socialising, I knew my weight was holding me back. I tried many a diet, healthy eating, anything to try shed a few pounds. A few times I was successful.

To date, my most successful attempt was when I embarked on a Biggest Loser competition. My confidence during that time soared. I trained like never before, I had to win. I was competitive and put my body through a gruelling exercise plan. I quit the junk food and gave up drinking for three months. It was one of the best things I’ve done to date.

However, as it so happens in life, and especially with weight, things fluctuate and go up and down. The weight I lost, somehow found me again, or rather, through bad habits, bad eating choices and little to no exercise I put it all back on over the course of time. I could blame a multitude of things; little things, big things, everyday things. However, if truth be told, the only person to blame was myself. I made the decision, I put the food in my mouth, I didn’t exercise. It’s simple.

Growing in confidence

As Christmas rolled around again this year, I, like many of the nation sat in my onesie and gorged on the many festive treats Christmas has to offer. However, as I headed back to work after a truly relaxing two weeks off, I made a promise to myself. Subconsciously, this year, I would lose weight. The goal is to be able to wear a bikini on the beach this Summer (I’ll take the Irish beach) and feel confident and happy. And, I suppose, more importantly like I look like I belong in it. I want to look good, and feel good.

It’s going to be a gradual process. No overnight miracles, but I’m determined. I’m not starving myself, I’m just eating healthily and exercising. I’m lucky in that I walk for around an hour every day between getting the DART and Luas to and from work. I wear my fluorescent runners, and I feel like Uzaine Bolt when I see my bus and run and make it. I enjoy my power walks to and from the Luas and while it’s not jogging or running, it’s still exercising.

The main thing I’ve cut is takeaways. Last week despite craving a Chinese or greasy pizza, I had steak and salad, which my boyfriend cooked – he’s brilliant in the kitchen and his support is amazing. Support from everyone is crucial. Don’t beat yourself up or be too hard. I still have a cheeky munch on chocolate or jellies, and last night I ravaged a mince pie. I’m only human. I’m not a huge drinker so cutting out the alcohol for me isn’t too tricky. Realistically, the next time I drink will be Valentine’s Day, closely followed by my boyfriend’s birthday. However, I’m making the decision to give up the beer; I’m not sure what I’ll drink when I eventually come to drinking, but beer is going to give me a belly. Also, it makes me feel bloated, which is something I could do without.

What I want to do now is try something that I can feasibly maintain. I want to be able to fit exercise into my routine and regime regardless. So, if I didn’t have that walk to and from the DART and Luas, what would I do to compensate it and make sure I got that little bit of exercise? I know I’ll slip up, and I’ll treat myself sometimes but I won’t apologise for it because slowly and surely I’m earning it. I know that I’m one of those people who doesn’t have a particularly fast metabolism, and therefore I need to keep a loose eye on my weight. It doesn’t ruin life, it’s just like anything else, and I keep tabs on it.

Learn to embrace your body

We all have different body shapes, from slim to curvy, big breasts, small breasts, love handles, no love handles. We come in all different shapes and sizes and I think that’s what makes us so wonderfully unique. We all have these combinations of bodies, sometimes we think they fit, other times we don’t. I’ve often joked about myself as a whale, a hippo or even a piece of fruit – pear shaped I think? Just because someone is heavier doesn’t necessarily mean they’ll be unhealthy and unfit. Other factors, apart from food and exercise can contribute to your body size, like your height and your genes.

Some of us have a faster metabolism than others. Someone who is skinny and has the ‘perfect’ body may actually be more unfit than someone of a larger weight. They might be eating the wrong foods and not exercising. It’s not just about looking good, it’s about feeling good, but more importantly feeling and being healthy. We associate skinny with being healthy and being fat with being unhealthy. We link numbers to who we are. A size 12, 14, 16 does not define you or your body. It’s an item of clothing. Only this weekend I bought a size 20 blouse, it was the only one left, and while, no, I’m not size 20 it looked great as a baggy loose fitting top. Perfect for when my monthly friend rolls into town and I feel like I’m as wide as house. Define your body by what you put into it, not by anything else.

Learn to know your body, and embrace it. I can honestly say, that I adore my curves, and as I feel the inches leave my waist (slowly mind!) I can see them for what they are. I love that I can literally feel the curves, this hour-glass thing forming. I have two little stretch marks on my tummy, battle scars I say! A warrior who’s fighting.

I used to think, that being slim was the be all and end all. It’s not, you can lose all the weight you want and you can be skinny and miserable. To anyone who’s battling the bulge, don’t give up, take things day by day, and be proud of every achievement, no matter how small you think it is. It’s a slow, gradual process but worth every ounce of effort. Remember, you have so much inner strength, you just don’t know. Make this the year you unleash your warrior and fight your way healthy again!

Remember, bodies come in all different shapes and sizes, and this is absolutely fine. Your health is dependent on a huge range of things, and body weight isn’t the most important thing. A healthy lifestyle involves taking care of both your body and your mind. Eat plenty of healthy foods, get loads of sleep, and exercise regularly at your own pace. Make sure you do little things every day that you enjoy and make you happy, and never be afraid to seek help if you’re feeling down.

Internet privacy is at an interesting crossroads in Ireland right now. The National Security Agency and Edward Snowden is all well and good in America, but surely Ireland has nothing to fear? In my experience, Irish people have an attitude of “sure look, we’re a small nation, it’s grand”. Now, I’m pretty sure Ireland is safe from some of the surveillance that takes place in the US, but that’s not a reason to dismiss internet privacy and anonymity entirely.

I attended SpunOut’s privacy workshop a few weeks ago and had my eyes opened from my casual attitude. To many online companies (Facebook, for example)  “everyone is interesting” – there’s no such thing as “only those who are deserving are watched”. You don’t have to be trying to hack into the Dáil’s wifi, or even torrenting, to be surveyed by websites.

Case in point: Facebook ads. I know that as someone who spends a lot of time researching and writing about sexual health online, I regularly get advertisements for Well Woman centres or PositiveOptions.ie. Someone who searches LGBT issues or actively uses an LGBT society page may get these targeted ads – including ones to “pray away the gay”. Sound awful yet?

Okay, so this isn’t the most terrifying thing in the world, but it’s a little bit creepy. But what about what is known as “metadata”, the tiny breadcrumbs you leave behind online? Checking in on Facebook, using location services on an iPhone or tagging an Instagram picture somewhere leaves a mark and that mark can be used to track where you are and – creepily – who you’re with. If it’s not Facebook that’s creeping on you, it’s certainly easy for a bully to stalk and harass with this information. Even if internet surveillance isn’t a huge issue in Ireland, cyberbullying is, and location data is just making life easier for bullies.

What can we do to protect ourselves online?

“You don’t have to be an astrophysicist to wear a seatbelt in a car”, so why should you have to be a cyber activist to protect yourself online? A few little changes could make a big difference to your online life, making it much safer and less open.

TW // This article references eating disorders. Bodywhys helpline: 01 2107906 or [email protected]

Mental health is important to us, and if mental health is not important to you, then it should be. It is interesting that if we break our arms, we immediately seek help and get a cast and start to recover. But if we have bulimia; we are ashamed, afraid and hide the eating disorder from the world as we spiral deeper into a dark place, avoiding seeking help or recognising a problem.

An eating disorder is a complex, and even life-threatening condition that involves severe disturbances in eating behaviours in both men and women. Disorders, such as bulimia nervosa and anorexia nervosa, are dysfunctional methods of coping with emotional stress or part of another condition. Contrary to most understanding of an eating disorder, it does not primarily focus on food. Anyone can have an eating disorder but people can, and certainly do, recover. Yet there is no single cause for any eating disorder but a combination of biological, psychological and social or environmental factors that can create unwanted conditions for the development of an eating disorder.

I had a close family member who showed all the signs of having bulimia when I was young and it is only today that I understand what it was. I heard them after almost every meal vomit and denied it was an issue each time I asked. I remember it started during their exams, and continued during the immense stress of my family separating. However, that is their story to tell. I was too young to fully understand what an eating disorder was, and how easily anyone could develop a mental health condition or eating disorder. This was my first encounter with any form of mental health conditions.

Exam stress triggering eating disorders

Exams are known more for the stress they induce rather than the knowledge gained and tested upon. The Junior Cert, Leaving Cert, entry exams, college exams and even workplace exams each carry a level of stress that can trigger conditions for eating disorders. Education institutes and workplaces should be aware of mental health issues that exams can place on a person with support services firmly in place.

I am guilty of missing meals and I am a chronic snack eater and tea drinker when I study. With the stress of an exam, you may notice your appetite decrease or skipping meals to study. Like me, cups of tea and snacks might become your only source of food. Some people even exercise to relieve stress, but might end up overdoing it. These habits are common for the stressful studier, but a healthy balance must be made and recognition on an imbalance, or potential threats to mental health, should be acknowledged. This acknowledgement can come from you or from someone else.

If someone does identify weight loss that is appearing unhealthy or unhealthy habits in someone else, be the one to ask and willing to talk. Avoid confrontation and be understanding. If you recognise you may have an eating disorder then try to take charge of the situation. Think about what is happening and identify why it could be happening.

A healthy study schedule does not entail blocks of intense studying but encompasses regular meals, sleep and exercise or stretching the feet. People do and can recover from eating disorders, just like people do and can recover from any exam. There are support services from BodyWhys available nationwide for anyone seeking help. After the exams, there is no shame in seeking help. In fact, you are more powerful and honest as a person if you are okay to recognise how important your mental health is to you.

To be perfectly honest, despite being a female, I am strongly against the use of gender quotas in politics. Whilst many argue that they end discrimination towards females entering the political world, these quotas are ironically the very thing that they claim not to be. Why should male candidates, who may have more experience and political knowledge, be pushed aside so a party can fulfil their quotas? Yes they may encourage more females to participate in government, but they are also denying the rights of the voters to decide. This can be seen to be anti-democratic.

Glorifying women’s political ideologies doesn’t serve the cause of equality – it just creates expectations that can’t be met. A person’s gender doesn’t have any influence on their opinions; it’s a matter of education and experience.

Quotas are also discriminatory to those who can benefit from them. Positive discrimination is still discrimination. British TV presenter Kat Akingbade spoke out about being selected upon such criteria. “Positive discrimination robs an individual of drive and self-motivation”, she said upon finding out that she had gotten her job due to her racial background. “It completely undermines the achievements and abilities of the hard-working and truly gifted. If employers are pressed to select candidates on the basis of race, sex or gender to diversify the workplace, they will care less about a candidate’s ability, and eventually one ‘protected characteristic’ will blur into another.”

Gender quotas treat women as if they don’t have the qualities to reach the top by themselves. They make it mandatory to select women on the basis of their gender – this does them a disservice. Women, just like men, should be chosen on the basis of their individual qualities and abilities. Gender shouldn’t play a role at all.

The women pulled into power from this quota system may be under the perception that they have been elected from the best of their gender, and not the best full stop. The system discounts the fact that these women may be successful for reasons other than being a women.

Having women in politics is a good thing, but is having more women better? For all we know the current quota of having 30% of TDs female may slowly rise over the years, as many strong feminist parties such as ‘Women for Election’ may demand even more ‘equality’. It is better to have both men and women in a situation where they may clash heads over different opinions in order to come to a compromised solution that will appease the majority.

What I'm trying to get across is that these quotas are discriminatory. They come in direct conflict with Article 16.1.3 of our constitution which states: “Every citizen without distinction of sex who has reached the age of twenty-one years, and who is not placed under disability or incapacity by this Constitution or by law, shall be eligible for membership of Dáil Éireann.”

Women shouldn’t be forced into politics or wrongly promoted. Women have a chance to catch up on their own, as they make up the majority of university graduates today and have closed any imbalances between males and females. What we need is better support for women who wish to combine family and careers, such as better childcare services and more reliable and respectful part time jobs, not quotas that force us to feel as though we need government help to succeed in the political world.

Ireland has a culture that blames Arts students for just about everything. Whether it is for protesting or excessive drinking, students get blamed. Apparently we have nothing better to be doing but complain and drink. In fact we have plenty to be doing!

There are many students that cause trouble and waste time, but there are hundreds upon thousands that do as much as they can to prove that they are not the stereotypical Irish student. When in secondary school, if you said you were going to do Arts in NUIG, everyone would say “You’re going to really enjoy college so”. 

When I tell people that I study Arts they sometimes say, “You must only have 6 hours a week?” No. That is so wrong. I actually have 16 hours a week with one or two very heavy assignments due every Friday. My average assignment is 1500 words and usually worth a big chunk of my grade.

Arts students even get looked down on during nights out. One night last semester, my friend was chatting to a lad from UL in Angel Lane. He said he studied engineering and so she asked him loads of questions about his course. In turn, he asked her how teaching was going. He assumed that she was doing the Bachelor of Education course as she said she went to Mary Immaculate. When she told him she was actually doing Arts he immediately walked away as if she had a contagious disease!

In Mary I, I see people who are going to potentially become primary school teachers and I honestly worry for my future children’s education. Some of them are crazy party animals, drinkers and messers. What annoys me is that you often see people who got 5 points below the requirement for teaching in the Leaving Certificate ending up doing Arts. Some of these people are born to be primary school teachers. Ideally there should be an interview process as well as the CAO system for teaching courses. If this was the case, there would be a massive influx of people in Arts and a reduction of terrible primary teachers in this country. An increase in the number of Arts students might even take away the harmful stigma from the course!

What people do not realise about Arts is the absolute range of careers one can avail from the course. For example, I study English and Media & Communication Studies with Information Technology. I can become a secondary school teacher, English lecturer, journalist, editor, radio presenter, producer, director, film editor, script writer, IT technician and so much more. I have choices. An engineer can be an engineer. A primary school teacher can be a teacher.

In 10 years, my friends doing B.Ed. will be in primary schools teaching. They may have families. Some will be very happy, others may not be. In 10 years’ time, I may be the CEO of RTE or a lecturer in DCU or radio producer on the BBC Radio 1 Live Lounge. I may be happy. I may not be. I can be anywhere in 10 years.

Arts is the course you choose when you don’t know what you want to do. So what? It is great that there is a course out there for people who are not too sure what to do. Choosing what you want to do for the rest of your life when you are a 16 or 17 year old is an awful lot of pressure. Who knows what they are going to be doing 10, 20, 30 years from now? It is impossible to say!

Isn't it great that someone who is feeling at a loss about what to study has the option of choosing a variety of Arts subjects rather than having to picking one specific course, i.e. nursing or teaching, just because they felt pressured into doing so? What if they end up absolutely hating their job and only have one skill under their belt? Not so good! People who do Arts just for the sake of doing something in university, because they feel peer pressure to do so, end up wasting their time. A lot of people do not realise how much work an Arts course can require. A lot of people don’t study. A lot of people party, and drink, and forget to hand in assignments and end up failing.

Juxtaposed to this, there are a lot of people who like to drink and party but hand in their assignments on time, even if it is 4.59pm and it’s due at 5! People who go into Arts with their eyes wide open can learn to balance the social life with the college work. I sure do.

I still manage to go out Tuesdays and Thursdays most weeks with the occasional Monday and still get my assignments handed in on time. It’s is all about what the student puts in. Have you signed up to the college Quidditch team? Do you volunteer on the radio? Are you going to Zumba? Did you audition for the musical? Will you be watching MIC vs UL in the hurling? Do you take part? Do you take full advantage of what you are getting offered?

These are the things that help students achieve the perfect college life. Balance. Balance your academics with your alcohol. Balance your aerobics class with your Aristotle essay. It can all happen. It can be easy, no matter what course. Every single course has its own challenges and difficulties. Every course has its criticisms. Some more than others.

We are all students. We are all learning. We should learn to accept. Accept one another. Accept their course. Accept their chosen career path. Do not judge Arts students without hearing their 10 year plan!

Working Family Payment (WFP), previously known as the Family Income Supplement (FIS), is a weekly social welfare payment for parents who have jobs but don’t earn a lot of money.

Read more about social welfare supports for parents.

What is the Working Family Payment?

Working Family Payment is a weekly tax-free social welfare payment that is available to employees with children. It offers extra financial support to people on low pay. WFP is for employees only. You cannot qualify if you are self-employed.

Am I eligible for Working Family Payment?

There are a few conditions you have to meet in order to be eligible:

What are the income limits for Working Family Payment?

To qualify for WFP, your average weekly family income must be below a certain amount for your family size. How this amount is determined depends on the number of children you have.

Remember, if you are married, in a civil partnership, or living with your partner, their income will be counted too.

Can I receive WFP if I am already getting another social welfare payment?

It depends on what other supports you are receiving. You may still be entitled to this payment if you are also claiming:

However, you cannot claim if you are:

How long can I receive Working Family Payment for?

WFP is generally paid for 52 weeks (one year). If your pay or hours at work are reduced during this time, your payment will stay the same. However, at the end of the 52 weeks, you will have the chance to re-apply for WFP, and your new circumstances will be taken into account then.

How much money will I receive?

The amount of WFP you can get is 60% of the difference between the income limit for a family of your size and your actual income.

Example – A family with one child

Example – A family with two children

How do I apply for Working Family Payment?

Applications are only accepted by post. To apply for Working Family Payment, you need to fill out this form and send it to the below address:

Working Family Payment (WFP) Section,
Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection,
St. Oliver Plunkett Road,
Letterkenny,
Co. Donegal
F92 T449

If you need assistance with filling out the form, you can contact your local Intreo office.

Need more information?

We are here to answer your questions and talk through your options. Our online chat service is for 16 to 25 year olds and is available Monday to Friday, 4pm to 8pm. Chat to us now about your situation.

Flatten the 7up, gather all the blankets, and batten down the hatches because it’s officially cold’n’flu season again. As a nation, we love to feel sorry for ourselves when experiencing those first symptoms of the dreaded sniffles, and while different strokes work for different folks, it’s important to remember that certain responses are not appropriate when dealing with relatively mild complaints.

That’s where UnderTheWeather.ie seeks to enlighten us in our flu-busting pursuits. It’s a new website launched by the HSE to help inform people of what steps should be taken when you’re feeling down in the dumps.

We’ve all got our own ways of dealing with common maladies from sore throats and tummy bugs to earaches and sinus infections, with varying degrees of success! However, most of the time, there’s no cure as good as a bit of R & R complemented by some good old-fashioned TLC.

If you’re achin’ all over there’s no harm in resorting to pain relievers (within recommended guideline amounts, of course), but the main piece of advice is to avoid antibiotics as they don't work on common colds/flus. 

Antibiotics only have an effect on bacterial infections. They have no effect on viral illnesses (such as colds and flu) whatsoever, and what’s more, the unnecessary overuse of antibiotics helps contribute to the evolution of antibiotic-resistant strains of disease which are really, really hard to medicate against.

Often, it can be difficult to differentiate between viral and bacterial infections as many symptoms cross over between the two. But generally-speaking, bacterial infections tend to last longer than viral complaints, so if you’ve been coughing, sneezing, sniffling and spluttering for an extended period of time it’s recommended that you see a doctor for a correct prescription. But other than that – tough it out!

The website offers lots of helpful tips and information on how to identify and treat an infection, and it’s also got expert video content featuring advice from health professionals. It’s broken down into illness-specific directions, which differentiate between advice for kids and adults.

If you feel strongly about drugs or alcohol, Drugs.ie are offering you the perfect opportunity to air your thoughts with their National Youth Media Awards for 2015.

Don’t worry if you’re not a whizz with a cam, because anyone who’s interested has the opportunity to submit an animation, poster design or audio recording which gets the key message across about drug and alcohol use!

The two main themes for the 2015 competition are:

The helpful folk over at Drugs.ie have even compiled a list of tips for entering, selecting an idea, and researching the project which you can see here. You can enter as an individual or as part of a group by following this link. The best part is you can enter as many times as you want between different projects and separate formats, so go crazy!

Entries are categorised into four different age groups:

All content has to be original, and the final date for submission is the 16th of February 2015, so you’ve got plenty of time to get filming, painting, recording and creating.

Of course, it kinda goes without saying that the prize fund of €2,000 will be an awesome addition to the budget for your next grand production (possibly…), so try your best to wow those judges. The awards ceremony will be held at the end of April, which is always a bit of craic, so the best of luck getting there!

Even in this seemingly new golden age of television, I have always maintained the prowess of the big screen versus its smaller screened counterparts. In my opinion, television shows are primarily made for entertainments sake, whilst cinema is produced for similar reasons of entertainment. Its predominant purpose as an art form, at least for the most part, is to convey a message. The art house genre aside, successful films should attempt to achieve equilibrium between entertainment and meaning. Quite unlike television, film ought to feel like an experience; whether you are watching in a packed theatre or alone on the couch, the viewer wants to feel that they have been through something. Film can convey so many emotions from both sides of the spectrum, the following is a list which can help raise the human spirit during the times we need it most

It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)

In many people’s eyes, this Frank Capra picture is the penultimate holiday classic. Featuring one of my favourite performers of all time, Jimmy Stewart, this is beyond a movie in many households, but is rather a Christmas tradition. A beautiful screenplay which is both heart tugging and warming, capped off by genuine portrayals, with one single viewing it is not difficult to acknowledge the allure of this film. The story goes, as a frustrated and disenchanted businessman contemplates the worst, an angel shows him the world had his presence never have been felt. It certainly isn’t difficult to note why this film has stood the test of time and so many inferior imitators have fallen by the wayside.

Forrest Gump (1994)

There are few things more frustrating than people who speak ill of this Tom Hanks hit. Albeit, a comedy drama, several people relegate this film to a pure dim-witted and simplistic comedy. The multi-Oscar winning triumph is worth far more and should always be recognised as such. This is without a doubt, Tom Hanks’ and Robert Zemeckis’ best work. The two would later again pair up for Cast Away (2000). A delightful story blended with loveable characters, coincided with real historical events and footage, teaches us to play the hand you’re dealt in a world where life truly is “like a box of chocolates”. 

The Shawshank Redemption (1994)

First and foremost, this Frank Darabont/Stephen King adaptation is my favourite film of all time. It seems too, that many others share this same opinion, as it sits at the top rated film on the esteemed imdb top 250. Strangely, this film never claimed Oscar gold, largely due to the fact that its predecessor staked a claim to most of the plaudits that year. Equally strange, was the fact that Tom Hanks passed on the role as Andy Dufresne in order for him to concentrate on his role in Forrest Gump. This film offers a realistic, yet slightly sentimental, insight into not only life “on the inside”, but also the resilience of people, as they utilise hope in a bid to overcome the entrapment of fear and isolation.

Good Will Hunting (1994)

Following the untimely passing of the wonderful Robin Williams, Pieta House showcased this Oscar winning movie at various participating cinemas across the nation. There are few films as life affirming and wholeheartedly captivating than this Gus Van Sant hit. At its raw core, this film radiates inspiration, with Matt Damon and Ben Affleck penning the Award winning screenplay at the age of just 21. Its dialogue and penetrating messages have a universal applicability which can translate to all facets of society. Not to mention, the array of fantastic performances by the ultra talented cast. None more so than Robin Williams, who also picked up an Academy Award for his efforts; somewhat picking up where Dead Poets Society (1989) left off.

Finding Forrester (2000)

On the back of some cinematic disappointments such as the abysmal colour remake of Psycho (1998), Gus Van Sant returned to a winning formula in 2000. He recruited another established star to help tell the story of a talented youth from the wrong side of the tracks, and encourage him to see his potential. Despite, being almost painfully similar to Good Will Hunting (with a Matt Damon cameo to boot), this film still packs an inspirational punch regardless.

Rocky Balboa (2006)

From the off, I said to myself that I would strive not to include any sort of hackneyed or niche sports movie in this particular list. But I just couldn’t resist including the final round of the acclaimed Rocky franchise. Following the negative reaction to the fifth instalment, Stallone felt a compulsion to reignite the series and finish on a high. Did he ever do it. Chocked with awe inducing dialogue and heart pounding action, this movie is sure to get even the most cynical amongst us pumped.

The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)

The best Will Smith movie performance ever. I think with this showing, Smith peaked and his career has never been the same since. Seven Pounds (2008) was a decent outing but in hindsight, was at the top of steadily declining gradient. I just adore the contrast between the scenes in which Chris Snr. is imploring his son to chase his dreams no matter the obstacles, where dim lighting is used in front of a deery looking chain link fence and the concluding scene at the top of the city, draped in beautiful sunshine, topped off by an appearance by the real life Chris Gardner.

The Bucket List (2007)

This film emphasises the importance of allocating time to enjoy the activities and endeavours which you draw most joy and satisfaction. All too often, people attempt to live vicariously through others, or vice versa, thus I believe this feel good flick duly acknowledges this necessity. Needless to say, work is important, but so too is living. However, if that metaphorical connotation falls short, one can easily be enamoured by the on-screen combination of two of Hollywood’s best ever talents.

It’s Kind of a Funny Story (2010)

This brilliant coming-of-age piece should be the rigid standard by which Zach Galifianakis attempts to emulate with all his future work. Albeit, not the central protagonist, he shines brighter than any comedic ventures he has ever taken part in. Following the second instalment of The Hangover, I find his particular style of comedy to be quite exhaustive and repetitive. Also, I just love when typecast comedic actors stray from their comfort zone and bring us something totally different. The best example one can consult is Robin Williams in the unsettlingly creepy One Hour Photo (2002). Keir Gilchrist and Emma Roberts also have some really enviable on-screen chemistry, it really makes me wonder as to why neither stars have made better use of their talents so far.

The Way Way Back (2013)

One of my favourite films of last year, which unfortunately didn’t get the credit it deserved – at least not in this country. Another coming-of-age film, so powerful in its simplicity, that I feel it can rival the finesse of The Perks of being a Wallflower (2013). One of the fantastic and well thought out features is the apparent role reversal between the adults and the teenagers. Steve Carrell does a great job of being a jerk; it boggles the mind as to why he doesn’t attempt to reach these heights more often. For me, typecasting is partly self-inflicted. Sam Rockwell also hands in his best performance to date; he is very underrated in mainstream cinema. One quick recollection of his filmography, and one is enraged that he hasn’t quite reached the heights of the A-List stratosphere. Or perhaps that’s a good thing, especially since we’re getting treated to performances like this and Seven Psychopaths (2012).

No chance to have my voice heard

Being 16, I won’t be able to vote in the upcoming Presidential elections. Or the local elections. Or the European elections. Or the Referendum on giving me the right to vote. When I’m in my early 20s, if I find myself unemployed, I’ll receive less social welfare than somebody in the same circumstances who happens to be ten or twenty years older.

Not having the right to vote means I don’t have the right to have a say in choosing people who are supposed to represent me. The Government opposed a bill to ban fossil fuel exploration which is disappointing, as the bill was a step in the right direction for the environment. The future of the environment is extremely important, particularly at our age, and especially after the scorching hot summer we had. It’s disappointing the government didn’t take our futures into account. Fianna Fáil opposed a bill which would see better sex education introduced in our schools, which is also extremely important, especially in the early stages of our teen years, as we become more sexually active and aware.

Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil are the two parties who opposed Sinn Féin’s bill in the Seanad, which would see the voting age lowered to 16 in Local Elections, and European Elections, which is supported by the EU.

Drawing inspiration from Scotland

If we look at Scotland, who lowered the voting age to 16 for the Scottish Independence Referendum and for elections to Scottish Parliament, we see clearly that the youth turn out to vote in high numbers, so what is the reason for the Government and Fianna Fáil opposing young people’s right to vote? They have said that they want to wait until the referendum on votes at 16 for Dáil elections in 2019, but they know that this is no good. The Local and European Elections will be long gone, meaning they are doing nothing for people who are currently 16 and 17. Nothing at all.

People my age are just as articulate, well informed, and mature as people who happen to be two or three years older. We know what we’d be voting on. We are politically engaged and aware, yet we aren’t allowed to have our say.

We’re told we can have our say, but I’ve contacted my local TDs multiple times on different issues, and I’ve never felt like I’ve been listened to. We can protest, but that’s only good in numbers. We can canvass and campaign, but even then, I’ve had problems with that.

Doing what I can do bring about change

In the recent 8th Amendment Referendum, I wanted to canvass for the yes side, so I signed up to canvass with Together for Yes (TFY). The TFY group in my area was led in large part by Fine Gael, whose members told me I was too young to canvass, as I was under 18. I was told this was a TFY policy, however, areas where the canvas was led by Sinn Féin, People Before Profit, and Labour were fine with me canvassing on my own on behalf of Together for Yes.

You can imagine then, how odd it was to see my local TD, Helen McEntee, launching the Youth for Yes campaign when representatives of her party, from her constituency had told me that I wasn’t allowed canvass. This is another example of young people being let down.

I have the same right to travel as someone 18 or over. I will soon be able to legally father and raise a child. I am old enough to work full time, and pay taxes, just as an adult. Yet I’m not allowed to have a say in what is done with my taxes, unlike an adult.

There is no reason the voting age should treat two age groups as unequal, when they are equal in many many many other ways (taxes, raising children, traveling, joining a trade union, getting a full time job, consenting to medical treatment).

I went to a Gaelscoil for primary school, and our principal was very fond of one phrase: “Mol an óige agus tiocfaidh sí” which, in English, means “Praise the young and they will flourish” if we’re told constantly to get our heads out of our phones and do something, don’t tell us not to get involved in politics. That is something. That is the most important thing. Praise us and we will flourish. Give us the vote, and we will vote.

Skip to content