The EQUICARES pilot use case in Ireland focuses on addressing the mental health needs of the LGBTQIA+ community in CHO Area 6.
The project aims to identify key challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals, such as high rates of self-harm and suicide attempts, exacerbated by both external factors (e.g., societal rejection and discrimination) and internal struggles (e.g., shame and fear). The initiative will provide culturally competent mental health resources, train professionals to better support LGBTQIA+ individuals, and advocate for their inclusion in the national HSE Digital Strategy. Activities are underway to engage stakeholders, establish the Smart Health Lab, and test the AI-based assistant with the LGBTQIA+ community.