Time to Talk Day
As the title suggests, this week’s blog post is about Time to Talk Day. Time to Talk Day takes place on Thursday 7 February this year. The day is part of a nationwide push to encourage people to talk more openly about mental health. As a Time to Change Champion, and with the support of a local tea room, I’m running an event this year on the afternoon of 7 February and people are invited to join the conversation.
Time to Talk Day is organised by Time to Change, the campaign to change how we think and act around mental health issues. There is an abundance of information available on mental health, and regular readers will know that I’ve shared some of my own experiences through this blog.
You may also have seen statistics such as the one which says 1 in 4 people will experience a mental health problem in any given year. Yet sadly, many people are too afraid to talk about it. Starting a conversation about mental health might seem daunting, but the simple act of checking in on a friend can be the beginning.
Thursday’s event is an opportunity for people to spend time in a safe environment. I’m not qualified to diagnose, but I can listen and I do have experience of dealing with mental health illness.
Event Details
Having conversations about mental health can help break down stereotypes, and take the stigma out of something that affects us all. And you don’t have to be an expert to talk. Indeed, one could argue that it takes more expertise to listen. To listen properly and try to understand. More is known about mental health than ever before. Yet in some places, it is still thought of as affliction of the weak minded, or an excuse to hide behind in times of strife. This must change. It’s okay not to be okay, and it’s okay to talk about it.
So what do I hope for from the Time to Talk event? I hope people will feel they can join the session to talk, and to listen. To share stories and experiences, and to support one and other. To meet people, and perhaps make friends. You might even discover your new favourite tea room.
How do I join?
No need to book, just turn up and join in. You can be assured of a very warm welcome.
This is great Em 😊 I’d happily come and support you if I wasnt working. I hope it’s a great event and look forward to seeing you again soon x
That would be great Lisa, your support would have been very welcome, thank you. Yes, must make time to catch up in person soon x
Hi Em, this sounds a fantastic idea. I would love to pop in to support you, but unfortunately I have an appointment at 2pm, which will be for an hour or so. Good luck, I hope it goes well.
Love E x
Thank you for reading and for your support. I hope to run similar events regularly and will keep you posted! Em x