Time To Talk Day will take place on 2rd February 2023, and will be run by Mind and Rethink Mental Illness, in partnership with the Co-op.
What is Time To Talk Day?
Time To Talk Day is the nation’s biggest mental health conversation. It happens every year to get friends, families, communities, and workplaces to talk, listen and change lives together.
It’s hard enough to experience mental health problems, without having to face the judgement, shame and isolation that can surround them too. The day is all about reducing the stigma of mental health conversations and the discrimination that can come along with them, by creating supportive communities that we feel comfortable seeking help from whenever we need it.
The money raised during the campaign will provide services to over 50 local communities across the UK to help support mental wellbeing.
Why is Time To Talk Day important?
According to the Time To Talk campaign, 1 in 4 of us will experience a mental health problem in any given year. We all have mental health, and by having conversations with family, friends, and colleagues, we can all support each other.
Many people struggle in silence and feel unable to speak out due to the fear of what others may think. Although we should be encouraging mental health support and conversations all year round, a day like Time To Talk Day raises public awareness in a big way. Spreading knowledge is essential to ending the stigma (which can be a significant barrier to people accessing help and support).
How to take part in Time To Talk Day
There are so many ways you can get involved with the campaign, and lots of them are simple.
- Put posters up in your community to spread awareness
- Host a tea or event in your community and encourage people to have conversations
- Run a lunch and learn in the office
- Text a friend – check in with your friends and family! Sometimes all it takes is a quick message to show people that you are there for them. If you are struggling, a message from a friend checking in can be such a relief.
Find out how to start a conversation about mental health
Conversations have the power to change lives and you don’t need a degree in listening to lend an ear. Lots of people find it hard to talk about their mental health, especially when they are going through a tough time and they know that the conversation won’t be easy. Show them that you are prepared to listen to them without judgement with Talking Tips.
Talking TipsRemember: it’s not about getting people to talk about their mental health if they don’t want to. Try to provide opportunities for people to open up about their mental health, even if they don’t use them.
Resources to support your Time To Talk Day
Communities
A supportive and open community really makes a difference. Making people feel seen and heard is a big step forward and here you can find ways to support people in your community. From walks to hosting a tea afternoon, these ideas can help you organise activities with your community.
Ideas for communities Ideas for sports clubsEmployers
A work environment that makes you feel comfortable and supported is the best one. Find out how to start conversations with your colleagues or employees, whether it’s one to one, or a group activity.
Ideas for employersYoung people
Getting young people to talk about mental health is as important as ever! Growing up can be a tough enough time to go through for many, and COVID-19 has had a damaging impact on mental health nationwide. From youth groups to schools to friends, here are some ways to get talking.
Ideas for young peopleDownload resources
You can find a downloadable resource pack with a range of materials to help you celebrate the day in your community, workplace, or school. From posters to games that get people talking to conversation starters.
Download a resource packWhat you can do if talking to family and friends isn’t an option
Some of us don’t have that support system around us and may not feel comfortable, safe, or supported when going to family and friends for help. If talking to friends or family isn’t something you think you can do, try online communities and helplines to get talking. There are lots of support networks that will lend an ear, perhaps suggest some advice if it’s appropriate and will keep what is said confidential.
Ways to support Time To Talk Day all your round
Become a campaigner or volunteer! Get involved in the community by signing petitions, emailing Members of Parliament, or even taking part in demonstrations. A great way to help people and their mental health is by improving the services that are available to them. By raising money or raising awareness all year round, you can join the movement to make help and support accessible to everyone.
Here are a couple of resources to get you started:
See More mental health advice
