Mental Health Conversations
Let's talk about Mental Health
Mental health affects all of us - whether it's something we're personally navigating or something a loved one is going through. In fact, around 1 in 4 adults in England experience a mental health issue each year. That's a powerful reminder that if you're struggling, you're far from alone.
But even though mental health is so common, talking about it can still feel difficult. That's why starting the conversation, gently, openly, and without judgment, is one of the most important things we can do.
Whether you're reaching out for support or checking in on someone else, small conversations can make a big difference.
Easy ways to start a Mental Health conversation
You don't need to be an expert or have all the answers. Just showing you care can be enough.
Here are a few gentle prompts to help get things started:
"How have you been feeling lately - really?"
"Is there anything I can do to support you right now?"
"What's been on your mind lately?"
"I'm here to listen if you ever want to talk."
"I noticed you've been through a lot recently..."
These kinds of questions help create a safe space where people feel heard, valued, and supported. The more we make these conversations part of everyday life, the more we break down stigma and lift each other up. Even small conversations can make a big impact.
If you're struggling yourself
Opening up about your own mental health can feel scary, but you don't have to do it alone. Here are a few tips to help:
- Talk to someone you trust - Whether it's a friend, family member, or colleague, starting with someone you know can make it easier.
- Keep it simple - You don't need perfect words. Even saying I feel overwhelmed is a powerful first step.
- Set your own pace - You don't have to share everything at once. Share what you're comfortable with, when you're ready.
- Talk to a professional - as an NHS Talking Therapies service, we are here to help. You can refer in at anytime without seeing your GP or having any diagnosis, and there is no cost for any of our services. Simply complete our online self-referral form or give our team a call on 0300 123 1503. We'll book your first appointment within three working days, where we'll chat about how you're feeling and work together to decide the best next steps for your care.
If you're worried about someone else
Sometimes we notice a friend, colleague, or loved one isn't quite themselves. Checking in can be the first step toward helping them feel better.
- Practice active listening - Let them talk without interrupting or judging. Just being there can mean more than you realise.
- Ask open-ended questions - Try "Can you tell me more about that?" or "How did that make you feel?" to show you're engaged.
- Share something personal - If you've had your own mental health experiences, sharing them can help the other person feel less alone.
- Become a Wellbeing Champion - learn how to support the mental health of those around you. We'll provide you with all the tools and knowledge you need to feel confident in guiding friends, family, or colleagues to our service if they ever need support. Find out more
- Encourage them to self-refer for support - to speak with a professional about how they're feeling. Share our website with them and let them know about the free, confidential one-to-one support we offer - available through self-referral or by speaking to their GP.
Mental health conversations don't have to be perfect - they just have to be kind. Whether you're reaching out or opening up, your words can be a lifeline.
Let's keep talking, keep listening, and keep supporting each other.
If you or someone you know needs immediate support, there are options.
· If you need an emergency service dial 999
· If you feel you are in crisis, experiencing feelings of despair or are suicidal, contact the Samaritans on 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org
· Or for urgent help, call NHS 111
· You can also call your GP
