Time to Talk Day – 7 February 2019
Grab yourself a cuppa, perhaps a biscuit too, because today is Time to Talk Day and we’re going to have a conversation about mental health.
Many of us are affected by mental health problems, and yet we’re still afraid to speak about it because of how much it’s been stigmatised –but this shouldn’t be the case. The best way to tackle the stigma and break the silence around mental health is by talking about it. And luckily, you don’t need to be an expert to talk.
Start a conversation
The Time to Change organisation has a few tips on starting a conversation:
- Start small –It doesn’t take a long or eloquent paragraph to make a difference. It’s the little things that matter the most. A quick phone call or text during the day can really go a long way –it shows people that you care, and that you are there for them.
- Find a good time and place –Some people may find face-to-face conversations quite daunting. So why not try talking while you’re out for a walk or even when you’re cooking a meal with someone? That way there’s less pressure to look the other person in the eye at all times, plus it feels more natural.
- Be open –If you’re being open and honest about yourself to others, this can often encourage them to do the same.
- Treat them the same –mental illness or not, that person is still the same person as they were before their diagnosis. If you want to be there for them, simply continue to do activities that you would normally do and don’t treat them any differently.
#timetotalk
However you decide to go about it, we strongly encourage you to participate in this little act today. Don’t underestimate the power of your words. Make 7 February 2019 the #timetotalk about mental health.
Local events
Check out Time to Change’s events map to discover events going on near you this Time to Talk Day.
Case Studies and Further Information
If you are suffering from a mental health problem, remember that you are not alone in this journey. Head over to www.time-to-change.org.uk/personal-stories to read some personal stories that people have shared.
For more information and helpful resources please visit: https://www.time-to-change.org.uk/get-involved/timetotalkday2019