It’s good to talk! | Tenant news

Today is Time to Talk Day (Thursday 3 February). Our mental health is important, yet so many of us struggle to open up.

How you can help others

It’s not always easy to tell if a friend, neighbour or family member is struggling with their mental health.  

The first step may be as simple as asking someone how they’re doing by phone or text message or inviting them out for a coffee. Whatever you choose to do will help you find out how they’re really doing.

And if they’re not willing to open up, that’s OK too. Just knowing that someone cares enough to ask can make a huge difference.

Who can I talk to?

If you’re worried about your own mental health, think about confiding in a close friend or family member.

If there is no one you feel you can talk to, there’s a raft of organisations that you can turn to for support:

• Men’s Sheds  offer community spaces for men to connect, converse and create.
• MenSpeak  provides confidential spaces for men to hang out and be heard.
• MenWalkTalk  is all about men walking while talking.
• The National Women’s Register  helps you connect with other women and enjoy conversation, friendship, and fun through local, regional and national events.
• NHS urgent mental health helpline  can be contacted in a mental health emergency.
• Women’s Aid  gives information on a range of support groups for women.
• Women’s Resource Centre  offers support and services via member organisations.

You’re not alone

Whether you have friends or family you can talk to or not, there’s help available to manage your mental health. You’re not alone, so take a deep breath and schedule some time to talk with someone you trust.

You might also like to read Mental health support is available during Covid-19.

Read more about Time to Talk Day.