Today (6 February) is Time to Talk Day, and we’re encouraging residents of Rother to talk to each other about their mental health either during an Active Rother activity, or over a cup of tea afterwards.
Mental health problems affect one in four of us, yet too many people are made to feel isolated, ashamed and worthless because of this. Time to Talk Day encourages everyone to be more open about mental health – to talk, to listen, to change lives.
It’s important that conversations happen at times and in places that feel natural. Sometimes it’s easier to talk about our feelings when we are doing something else, or talking side by side rather than face to face. Going on a walk, jogging around the park or sitting in a café – the more typical the setting, the less unusual and uncomfortable the conversation can feel.
So, if you do talk in person, you might want to chat while you are doing something else. You could start a conversation when you’re doing an activity. Activities such as a health walk or walking football have a social side. Why not strike up a conversation when walking or whilst having a cup of tea afterwards.
We know talking about mental health is not always easy. But starting a conversation doesn’t have to be awkward and being there for someone can make a huge difference.
Time to Change, who are running the national Time to Talk campaign have some top tips for having a conversation about mental health. Take a look and try to put these tips into practice when you’re next out doing an activity with others.
Talking (and physical activity) has the power to change lives. Find an activity that suits you.