Time to Talk Day is here to get the nation to talking about their mental health. It’s not always easy to open up to friends, family and colleagues if you’re struggling, but a quick conversation can sometimes save a life.
Mental health charities including Mind and Rethink Mental Health have come together to support the day as ‘the more conversations we have, the better life is for everyone.’
According to statistics, a quarter of people will experience a mental health issue this year. And figures show the poorest fifth of the population are twice as likely to develop a mental health problem.
With the ever-growing pressures life throws at us, and as the cost-of-living crisis continues, more and more people are feeling the impact on their mental health.
But, Time to Talk Day encourages people to talk about their concerns, and get the help and support they need if they are struggling.
We have rounded-up some tips on how to start a conversation about mental health:
Tips to talk about mental health
Asking questions can give people an opportunity to express how they are feeling. Try to ask open ended questions, that are not leading or judgemental. For example ‘how was work today?’ or ‘how are you feeling today?’
- Think about the time and place
Think about when and where you are asking the question. Maybe asking them as soon as they have got through the door after a busy day at work, or in a public place is not the best time to ask them a personal question.
Meanwhile, sometimes it is easier to have a discussion while you are both preoccupied doing something else, rather than sat face to face eating dinner.
Although it can be hard to see someone you love going through a hard time, try to resist the urge for a quick fix to their problem. Supporting and talking to a loved one, can be just as powerful as they work through their own battle.
Try not to treat them differently because they are struggling with their mental health. They are still the same person, and will not want to be treated any differently.
Someone suffering with their mental health might not open up the first time you ask them how they are feeling, but that doesn’t mean you should stop asking. Be patient, and when they are ready to talk they will know you are there to listen
If you or a loved one is struggling with their mental health, you should seek professional help.
Mental Health Charities
Charities including Mind and Mental Health UK are on hand to offer support.
CALM
CALM is the Campaign Against Living Miserably, for men aged 15 to 35.
Telephone: 0800 58 58 58 (daily, 5pm to midnight)
Website: www.thecalmzone.net
Mental Health Foundation
Provides information and support for anyone with mental health problems or learning disabilities.
Website: www.mentalhealth.org.uk
Mind
Promotes the views and needs of people with mental health problems.
Telephone: 0300 123 3393 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm)
Website: www.mind.org.uk
Samaritans
Confidential support for people experiencing feelings of distress or despair.
Telephone: 116 123 (free 24-hour helpline)
Website: www.samaritans.org/
Rethink Mental Illness
Support and advice for people living with mental illness.
Telephone: 0300 5000 927 (Monday to Friday, 9.30am to 4pm)
Website: www.rethink.org
Further reading
Stress at Work claims – Oakwood Solicitors
WHAT TO DO NEXT
Get in touch today for a no-obligation consultation. Choose one of the methods on the right-hand side of this page, or call us on 0113 200 9720 to find out how we can help you.
Emma Piorkowska joined Oakwood Solicitors in October 2009 and qualified as a Solicitor in September 2013. Emma works in our Psychiatric Injury and Employment departments, specialising in Work-Re…
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