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On 2nd February it's Time to Talk Day; an initiative set up by Mind and Rethink Mental Health Illness.
From personal experience, I found having conversations with some of my closest friends really helped gain the perspective I needed when my mind was going down various rabbit holes. In fact, having started the conversations, I regularly schedule time in with those people for a catch up. More to chat about stuff rather than having a set 'agenda.' Although it sounds a bit formal putting a time in to chat, it does at least mean we don't let things slip and before you know it, it's been 6 months.
Why it's time to talk (or at least encourage it).
In a world when we are seemingly more connected than ever, I found the statement below sad, and a little disturbing.
4 in 10 people under 24 don't feel they don't have anyone to talk to regarding their mental health?
Does spending over 14 hours a week on social media really make us feel more connected. Can the 2 be connected perhaps with unrealistic expectations being fed to young people, and potentially being a contributing factor to people feeling isolated and unable to share how they are really feeling?
But the point isn't that only people under 24 need to have someone to speak to - we all do; it doesn't matter what age someone is.
The Time to Talk campaign is a great way to kick off (or remind people to talk) - but we need to go further and make this an action we are conscious of throughout the year - not just one day.
8 Tips When Having The Conversation
Having the conversation a great first stop; however you find it helpful to have some tips of when it's good to have the chat
- Find a place that is free from distraction
- Make sure you and the other person feels comfortable - in that you may want a private place
- Do something whilst having the chat - maybe a walk or a coffee - but nothing too distracting
- If it helps plan the time in advance so you are both prepared for the conversation
- Ask the question and then listen
- Don't try to fix the issues someone may be having
- Treat the person the same after the conversation as you did before
- Be patient - some thoughts may be repeated or initially unclear
Why not give yourself time to reach out to those that may be struggling and could do with some support - it could be as little as phone call helping them out with an errand or being there to listen.
If you, or someone you know is struggling, reach out to various organisations that can support you; from your local GP surgery to organisations such as the Samaritans .
Looking after our mental health, and being able to speak to someone is important - whatever age someone is, whatever the time of year.
