Time to talk day

Organisations across the North East and North Cumbria are backing ‘Time to Talk Day’ on 3 February, a national campaign which aims to get the nation talking about mental health.

Explaining what the campaign is about, Hollie Edmondson, North East and North Cumbria Suicide Prevention Lead said: “We want everyone to feel comfortable talking about mental health – whenever they like.

“Each conversation we have contributes to reducing mental health stigma, helping to create supportive communities where we can talk openly about mental health and feel empowered to seek help when we need it.”

Organisations including NHS Trusts, local authorities, and the voluntary sector across the region which make up the North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care System are encouraging people to get involved.

Hollie continued: “Sharing articles or videos, hosting a ‘lunch and learn’ session at work, or just asking others how they’re doing – these are all simple ways to start conversations about mental health and show the people in your life you’re prepared to talk and listen without judgment.

“For people who are struggling with their mental health, stigma is still a big issue, and talking to someone about it and asking for help can be one of the hardest steps to take.

“If someone does open up about their mental health, we know it might not always feel easy to know what to say. But you don’t have to be an expert to help someone through difficult times; just letting them know that you care, and that you’re there to listen if they want to talk, can make all the difference.”

You’ll find some useful ‘talking tips’ on the Time to Talk Day website.