There is evidence of extremely high rates of suicide among young Traveller men, as well as a large number of Travellers on medication for depression, anxiety, and other difficulties. The harsh living conditions and lifestyle of Travellers contribute to their higher likelihood of dying at a younger age, making loss and grief common features of Traveller life. Despite this, it is important to recognize that Travellers often do not access mainstream services. Individuals from the Traveller community experience widespread discrimination throughout Irish society. Consequently, Travellers have had negative experiences when engaging with mainstream services. Additionally, there is a lack of recognition and understanding of Traveller culture within mainstream service provision. This workshop will explore key features of Irish Traveller culture, mental health, and social exclusion to stimulate discussions regarding psychological practice and the Traveller population in Ireland.
Presenter Information
Dr Thomas McCann is a member of the Irish Traveller community and a long time Traveller activist. He was a founding member of Minceir Misli and was instrumental in campaigning for the Equal Status Act and the Traveller Accommodation Act. Thomas holds a Diploma in Community Development from NUI Maynooth, a BSc in Psychotherapy, an MSc in Clinical Supervision and a Doctorate in Applied Social Studies. Thomas is currently a member of the National Traveller and Roma Inclusion Strategy Committee and is also a member of the Council of Europe Framework Convention for the Protection of National Minorites. Thomas established and currently manages the Traveller Counselling Service which was launched in 2008.
If you have any questions regarding this event, please contact the Special Interest Group in Ethnic Minorities at ethnicminorities@psychologicalsociety.ie.