Talking About Mental Health
World Mental Health Day is a chance for us all to come together, raise awareness, and remind each other that mental health matters.
Talking about how we’re feeling can make a real difference. Opening up isn’t always easy, but it can help improve our wellbeing and strengthen connections with the people around us. Whether you’d like to share how you’re feeling, or check in with someone you care about, here are some simple tips to get started.
How to Talk About Your Mental Health
1. Choose someone you trustThis could be a friend, family member, colleague, or even someone you don’t know personally, such as a trained volunteer on a support helpline. Writing down the pros and cons of opening up might help you decide who to talk to first.
2. Find the right placePick a setting where you feel safe and comfortable. This might be somewhere private with few distractions, or while doing an activity together – such as going for a walk – which can help the conversation feel more natural.
3. Be prepared for different reactionsMost people will want to support you, but sometimes others may not respond as you’d hoped. They may feel unsure or worried, or may need some time to understand. If this happens, try to give them space, share information that might help them, and remember to be kind to yourself. Practising self-care afterwards is just as important.
https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/our-work/public-engagement/world-mental-health-day