“1 in 4 of us will experience a mental health problem in any given year”. (Rethink Mental Illness).
That is why days like Time to Talk Day are key, to remind us of the importance of having regular conversations around mental health and wellbeing.
It can be difficult to open up about personal struggles and challenges and it can also be difficult to hear about someone else’s experience or problems. However, the more we talk about, and listen to, mental health concerns, the more work we can all do to remove the stigma, loneliness and isolation that can often be associated with mental health.
People don’t have to feel alone or bottle up their feelings and although not everyone understands mental health conditions, we should be able to recognise when someone needs help or isn’t themselves and if so, ask them how they are and listen to them – offering support in any way you can.
Undeniably, it can hard to know what to say when someone close to you shares that they are struggling – as humans, we sometimes feel like we need to have all the answers but the most important thing you can do is listen to them. This means listening without judgement and use active listening skills to reinforce what they are telling you. You can also ask them what they want to happen next – do they want your support or advice, or do they just want to get it off their chest/mind? Be empathetic and caring and although you might not understand what they are going through remember that everyone is different and experiences, and processes information and events differently, so reassure them and where necessary, recommend they seek professional advice.
Tips – talking about mental health:
- Speak to someone you trust and can be open with.
- Communicate your feelings, particularly so those closest to you can help you.
- Know where you can seek professional advice – see Mind or Rethink Mental Illness.
Tips – listening to mental health:
Listen to others without judgement.
- Offer advice or support when called for – sharing your own experience and tips/strategies if appropriate.
- Be empathetic and caring, even if you don’t understand what they’re going through.
- Know where to signpost people to, so they can access professional advice and resources.
Conversation starters
- How are you feeling?
- How are doing lately?
- Is there anything you want to talk about or anything I can help with?
The above is simple yet can be effective – allow people the space and time to open up and check up on them. Remember to also check in with yourself, set your own boundaries and know when you might need additional support – e.g., if a work colleague opens up to you, seek guidance from a manager.
