Millions of people are affected by mental health challenges, but still too many feel unable to speak out due to fear of judgment or misunderstanding. Time to Talk Day is a national initiative aimed at encouraging conversations about mental health and will be marked this year on 6 February. It is a day dedicated to breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health and creating an environment where people feel comfortable talking about their well-being. This year’s theme is all about encouraging people to talk about how they really feel and engaging in open discussions.
Why does talking about mental health matter?
Mental health is a crucial part of overall health, but it is often not discussed openly. Time to Talk Day seeks to change this by encouraging people to have honest and supportive conversations about their mental health. Many individuals struggle with mental health issues like anxiety, depression and stress but feel reluctant to talk about it. This silence can lead to feelings of isolation making it harder for people to seek the help and support they need.
By opening up these conversations, Time to Talk Day helps to normalise mental health discussions. The goal is simple: to create a world where talking about mental health is as common and accepted as talking about physical health. This kind of dialogue can reduce stigma, provide support and improve overall mental well-being.
There are many ways to participate on Time to Talk Day
START A CONVERSATION
It’s as simple as asking someone, “How are you doing?” or offering a supportive ear to someone who may be struggling.
EDUCATE YOURSELF
Understanding mental health better equips you to help others and engage in more meaningful conversations.
SUPPORT THROUGH SOCIAL MEDIA
Share your thoughts and ideas using hashtags like #TimeToTalk or #TimeToTalkDay to encourage others to join the conversation.
ORGANISE A GET TOGETHER
Organise a discussion, coffee morning or other event where people can talk openly about mental health.
BE A GOOD LISTENER
Sometimes the most helpful thing you can do is listen with empathy and provide support when someone opens up about their mental health.
Visit www.timetotalkday.co.uk for more information about this campaign and to download useful resources.
As always, One Place East will be marking this important week with the following events:
CLEARING YOUR SPACE
Monday 3 February 2025 | 11am – 3pm
Finding it hard to throw things away? Connect with others on this informative workshop to look at what lies behind hoarding tendencies, the impact on mental health and why it’s so difficult for some of us to declutter.
To book your place visit: tinyurl.com/SUNETWORK
Contact 07939 975763 or runup@oneplaceeast.org
TEA & TALK
Thursday 6 February 2025 | 11AM-1PM
One Place East aims to help create supportive communities where friends, family and colleagues can come together to have conversations about all things mental health.
So why not come along and join us on Time to Talk Day 2025 to meet new friends, support yourself and others to chat and relax with a cuppa and some biscuits.
To book your place visit: tinyurl.com/SUNETWORK
Contact 07939 975763 or runup@oneplaceeast.org
ONE PLACE IN CONVERSATIONS PODCAST
EPISODE 18
Tune into episode 18 of our One Place in Conversations podcast, which will be streaming on Facebook and YouTube on Thursday 6 February 2025 at 7pm.