Public Speaking & Mental Health Talks in Ireland

Honest conversation, personal storytelling and meaningful connection

I draw on lived experience, writing and performance to open conversations about mental health, resilience, identity and belonging. My talks combine honesty, humour and reflection, inviting people to consider their own experiences and the connections that matter to them.

I’m available for events across Ireland, including community gatherings, workplace events, conferences, festivals, schools and colleges.

Topics I Speak About

Mental Health & Lived Experience

An honest exploration of living with mental health challenges, asking for support and finding a way forward. Through personal storytelling, I encourage conversations that help people feel heard and less alone.

Creating Meaningful Connections

What makes a connection meaningful? This talk explores loneliness, belonging, listening and the everyday opportunities we have to connect with one another.

Men’s Mental Health

A conversation about the pressures men can experience, the difficulty of speaking openly and the value of friendship, community and seeking support.

Finding Your Voice Through Creativity

Drawing on my work as a writer and performer, I explore how words, storytelling and music can help us express ourselves, connect with others and build the confidence to share our experiences.

A Talk That Fits Your Event

Each talk is shaped around your audience, theme and available time. Formats can include:

A short guest talk or keynote address
A longer talk with audience questions
A combination of storytelling and spoken word performance
An interactive session with discussion and reflection

Whether you’re organising a mental health awareness event, a community evening or a workplace wellbeing session, we can discuss an approach that suits your programme.

Experience & Background

I am the author of A Funny Thing About Depression and Catching the Thought, and have written the Mental Health Matters column for The Nationalist.

My speaking experience includes engagements with University College Dublin, Teagasc and the Samaritans Ireland national conference. I have also brought storytelling and performance to arts festivals and community events across Ireland.

In 2026, I was named a finalist in the Mental Health Ireland Awards in the Impact in the Community category.

What Organisers Say

“Cathal is an excellent speaker, who has been involved in the Seanchoíche journey in 2026. He has always showed up when scheduled to speak at our events in a timely manner and has delivered highly cerebral, thought provoking stories that have resonated with the masses. It’s been a pleasure having him speak at our events.”