Time to Talk Day: Join the nation’s biggest mental health conversation
Every day offers an opportunity to talk about mental health, to listen to a friend’s concerns, and to ask a family member how they really feel. But the annual Time to Talk Day has in recent years become a focal point for people across the country to promote the value of talking.
Organised this year by the national Mind association and Rethink Mental Illness, in partnership with Co-op, Time to Talk Day 2022 invites people across the UK to come together with their friends, families, communities, and workplaces to talk, listen, and change lives. To help you get started and take part, Mind, Rethink and Co-op have created a free conversation starter pack to help you talk about mental health in your community.
How will you have your conversation about mental health? A sticky note on a colleague’s desk, an evening video call with a family member, or a side-by-side with a friend over a sandwich – however you do it, start your conversation this Time to Talk Day.
Not sure how to start? Here are a few tips to help you break the ice and kick off the conversation:
Find a safe space, without distractions, in which to have your conversation
Ask open-ended questions, for example “How are you feeling?” instead of “Are you sad?”
Listen carefully to what the other person is saying, without judgment
Ensure you understand what they are feeling; repeat back what they said to clarify
Don’t make any further assumptions on their potential feelings and emotions
Respect their boundaries with regard to how much or how little they want to share
Discuss any self-care practices that might be relevant, such as exercise or journalling
Offer to help with seeking professional advice, support, and information
Know your limits – remember that it’s important to take care of yourself as well!
And remember, if you need someone to talk to, Devon Mind is available Mondays to Thursdays from 9am to 5pm, and Fridays until 4pm. Give us a call, drop us an email, or fill out an enquiry form. We won't give up until everyone experiencing a mental health problem gets support and respect.