As we make our way into the second month of 2019, it is refreshing to see so many articles and discussions on the subject of mental health. Whilst an article alone cannot change all perceptions and break down all barriers, providing the opportunity and sense of safety to have a conversation can help tackle the stigma surrounding something that will affect most of us – either directly or indirectly – in our lifetimes.
Varying slightly depending on what publication you choose to read, around 1 in 6 adults experiences a common mental health problem such as anxiety or depression. Meanwhile, approximately 1 in 5 adults has at some point considered taking their own life. Clearly, to struggle with these issues is not rare.
There are lots of different ways to have a conversation about mental health. And you don’t have to be an expert to talk.
Whist there are a number of campaigns aimed specifically at mental health, this year’s Time to Talk Day (Thursday 7 February) is all about bringing together the right ingredients to have a conversation about this topic. Whether that’s tea, biscuits and close friends or a room full of people challenging the mental health stigma, the concept is to get people to start talking, however formally or informally.
The Time to Talk website https://www.time-to-change.org.uk/get-involved/timetotalkday2019 provides a wealth of information on planning an activity, whether through the Time to Talk Day guide or through their free pack of materials – so there’s no excuse. Now get talking!