Mandy McDermott Psychotherapist

03/02/2026

Looking after our elders matters—for practical reasons, yes, but even more for human ones.

1. They once looked after us
Most elders spent years caring for others: raising children, supporting families, building communities. Caring for them is a way of honoring that lifelong effort and returning the kindness that shaped our lives.

2. They carry wisdom and history
Elders hold memories, lessons, and experiences we can’t learn from books alone. When we listen to them, we gain perspective—about resilience, mistakes, values, and how life changes over time.

3. Everyone deserves dignity
Growing older often brings physical or emotional challenges. Looking after elders ensures they live with respect, comfort, and dignity, not loneliness or neglect.

4. Strong families and societies depend on it
When elders are cared for, families stay connected and communities become more compassionate. It sets an example for younger generations about empathy and responsibility.

5. It reflects who we are
How we treat our elders says a lot about our values. Caring for them shows gratitude, humanity, and respect for life at every stage.

6. One day, we’ll be there too
Looking after elders today helps create a culture of care—one we ourselves will depend on in the future.

In short: caring for elders isn’t just an obligation. It’s an act of love, respect, and shared humanity.

28/01/2026

Here are a few kid-friendly mental health habit quotes—simple, warm, and easy to remember 🙏

“It’s okay to feel all your feelings.”

“Your mind needs care, just like your body.”

“Talking about feelings makes them lighter.”

“Rest is part of growing strong.”

“You are kind to others—and to yourself.”

“Big feelings are okay. They don’t last forever.”

“Asking for help is a brave thing to do.”

06/12/2025

🙏❤️🙏❤️

Christmas isn't about the perfect tree or the perfect gift. It's a light in the darkness—especially in seasons of financial stress or the deep ache of missing a loved one.

Christmas is celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ.

It's about a family in a borrowed room. A child born in a stable. A story that starts in hardship and still offers hope.

This year, may the real gifts find you: peace when money is tight, memories when someone is missing, and love that asks for nothing in return.

If you're struggling this season in Northern Ireland, you're not alone. Here is help:

💸 Financial & Practical Support:

Advice NI: Free, independent advice on benefits, debt, and crisis support. Call 0800 915 4604 or visit adviceni.net.

Trussell Trust Foodbanks: Find your local food bank at trusselltrust.org/get-help.

Housing Rights: For housing crisis and homelessness prevention. Call 028 9024 5640 or visit housingrights.org.uk.

❤️🩹 Emotional Support & Bereavement:

Lifeline NI: 24/7 crisis counseling for anyone in distress. Call 0808 808 8000.

Cruse Bereavement Support NI: Specialized grief support. Call 0808 808 1677 or visit cruse.org.uk/northern-ireland.

Samaritans: 24/7, free listening service. Call 116 123 for free from any phone.

You are seen, and you are loved this Christmas season. 🙏🕯️❤️🎄

06/12/2025

Christmas isn't about the perfect tree or the perfect gift. It's a light in the darkness—especially in seasons of financial stress or the deep ache of missing a loved one.

Christmas is celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ.

It's about a family in a borrowed room. A child born in a stable. A story that starts in hardship and still offers hope.

This year, may the real gifts find you: peace when money is tight, memories when someone is missing, and love that asks for nothing in return.

If you're struggling this season in Northern Ireland, you're not alone. Here is help:

💸 Financial & Practical Support:

Advice NI: Free, independent advice on benefits, debt, and crisis support. Call 0800 915 4604 or visit adviceni.net.

Trussell Trust Foodbanks: Find your local food bank at trusselltrust.org/get-help.

Housing Rights: For housing crisis and homelessness prevention. Call 028 9024 5640 or visit housingrights.org.uk.

❤️🩹 Emotional Support & Bereavement:

Lifeline NI: 24/7 crisis counseling for anyone in distress. Call 0808 808 8000.

Cruse Bereavement Support NI: Specialized grief support. Call 0808 808 1677 or visit cruse.org.uk/northern-ireland.

Samaritans: 24/7, free listening service. Call 116 123 for free from any phone.

You are seen, and you are loved this Christmas season. 🙏🕯️❤️🎄

05/12/2025

Do you ever feel overlooked?

Sometimes the loudest silence is the one between “how are you” and no one asking.

Silence isn't empty; it's full. Full of the unspoken answer waiting to be given, full of the hope for connection that went unnoticed, full of the echo of your own voice when you realise the question wasn't returned.

It speaks volumes about longing, about the spaces we occupy in each other's lives, and about the profound human need to be asked—because being asked means being remembered. It means someone is holding a door open for your truth to walk through.

14/11/2025

Don’t be fooled again! 🙏

Sign and share. Petition being debated on 8th December.

https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/730194 🤡

We demand that the UK Government immediately commits to not introducing a digital ID cards. There are reports that this is being looked at.

07/11/2025

The Belfast Boys' Model School 🙏❤️

31/08/2025

Safeguarding training for pastoral leadership and volunteers at Rehoboth Church Belfast yesterday. 🙏

15/07/2025

This account has been hacked. Please report. Thank you! ❤️

21/05/2025

❤️The Belfast Boys' Model School

18/04/2025

Good Friday commemorates Jesus Christ’s crucifixion, a pivotal event in Christianity.

It symbolises divine love, as Jesus willingly suffered to redeem humanity from sin.

Christians observe this day with prayer, fasting, and church services, reflecting on His sacrifice. The somber atmosphere underscores the gravity of His death, yet it also carries hope—

His suffering paves the way for resurrection and eternal life.

The cross, central to Good Friday, represents both suffering and salvation. It reminds believers of forgiveness, mercy, and God’s boundless grace. Though a day of mourning, it ultimately points to the triumph of love over death, preparing hearts for Easter’s joy.

“Father, thank You for healing, provision, and hope. May my life glorify You forever. I praise You, my Savior and King. Amen."

16/04/2025

Drug addiction is a growing crisis in Northern Ireland, damaging health, families, and communities.

The use of illegal drugs, prescription medication misuse, and alcohol dependency contribute to rising overdose deaths, mental health issues, and crime.

In 2022, Northern Ireland recorded its highest number of drug-related deaths, with opioids like he**in and synthetic drugs such as fentanyl posing severe risks.

Addiction strains healthcare services and increases homelessness, unemployment, and domestic violence.

Young people are particularly vulnerable, with cannabis and stimulant misuse affecting education and future prospects.

Criminal gangs exploit addiction, fueling violence and exploitation.

Efforts like addiction treatment programs, mental health support, and community education are vital.

Strengthening enforcement against drug trafficking while offering rehabilitation can help reduce harm.

Raising awareness and promoting healthy lifestyles are key to combating this devastating issue in Northern Ireland.