Mental Health Ireland has announced the return of Hello, How Are You? Day, which will take place on May 15, 2026.
The national campaign encourages people to take time to check in with those around them and start more meaningful conversations about mental health.
The message behind the initiative is simple. A genuine “Hello, how are you?” can open the door to connection, understanding and support.
People are being encouraged to ask the question of friends, colleagues, neighbours or even strangers, and to take the time to really listen to the response.
The campaign aims to help reduce the stigma around mental health and remind people that they are not alone.
At the heart of this year’s campaign is ambassador and social media star Eric Roberts, who is using his platform to highlight the importance of genuine connection and simply asking — and really listening to the question, “Hello, How are you?”
Speaking about the campaign, Eric said: “I’m absolutely delighted to be an ambassador for Mental Health Ireland and to support the Hello, How Are You? Campaign this May 15th. It’s such a simple question, ‘hello, how are you?’, but it carries incredible power. Taking a moment to check in with someone can make a real difference, letting them know they’re seen, heard, and not alone. I’m proud to be part of a campaign that encourages all of us to connect, to listen, and to look out for one another.”
To mark the campaign, Mental Health Ireland has also partnered with Hairy Baby to launch a limited-edition Hello, How Are You? T-shirt as Gaeilge, with all profits supporting Mental Health Ireland’s work. Designed to spark conversations, the T-shirt offers a simple, visible way for people to show their support and get involved.
Now in its fifth year, Hello, How Are You? continues to grow nationwide. In 2025, the campaign saw:
- 291 events across 26 counties
- 193 people trained in mental health conversation skills
- Over 80,000 campaign resources distributed
- Public engagement at train stations supported by volunteers in Dublin, Cork and Limerick
The campaign invites individuals, workplaces, schools and communities to take a moment on May 15th to check in with one another — because a small question can make a big difference.
Here are a few ways you can get involved
Start a Conversation
The heart of this campaign is simple human connection. Reach out to someone – a friend you haven’t spoken to in a while, a colleague you usually just nod to in passing, or someone who might be feeling a little isolated. Say hello, ask how they are, and take the time to really listen. It’s a small act that can have a huge impact.
Host a Hello Event
Whether it’s a coffee morning, a lunch, a walk, or just a team chat at work, hosting a Hello event is a great way to get people talking. You can keep it low-key or go big – the key is creating a space where people feel safe and supported to connect. Schools, workplaces, community groups, and even virtual teams can all take part.
Spread the Word Online
Social media is a powerful tool to raise awareness. On May 15th, post a message, photo, or video using the hashtag #HelloHowAreYou to show your support. You never know who might see your post and feel encouraged to reach out or start a conversation of their own.
For more information check out the Hello webpage on www.bit.ly/mhihello
