Mental health, like physical health, is something that we all have and yet speaking openly about mental health is not always easy.
While, as a society, we may be getting more aware of these struggles, most people still find it awkward to talk openly about mental health face-to-face.
However, small chats with your friends, colleagues, and family members can go a long way to make sure you have a place to talk honestly about your feelings.
Small Talks is solely about taking the time to have these conversations and ensuring that we all make ourselves available to listen. With a few simple guides, we can all positively impact the mental health of those around us.
Take the time
In your day-to-day chats, check in with those around you and make an effort to ask people how they are doing.
- Try and make sure you are somewhere you feel comfortable – this could be at home or going for a walk
- Try asking people how they’re doing every time you get to talk and catch up properly
- If you’re concerned about someone, then be sure to find time to ask them how they’re doing
Ask twice
“I’m fine” can be an instant response when people ask how we’re doing. Asking a second time can lead to a more honest and open response.
- As well as asking “how are you doing?” as a natural conversation opener, try following with, “how have you been feeling?”
- Opening up can be daunting, so be patient and allow them to do so
Learn to listen
Allow people the time needed to talk about their feeling. It may not come all at once, but make sure you’re letting them say what they need to.
- We all like to respond to what people tell us, but it is crucial to make sure we’re not cutting people off when they’re trying to open up
- Continue asking questions that invite people to share more
- Ask if there is anything you can do to help
Keep it up
Don’t stop with one chat. Remember to continue checking in to see how those closest to you are doing.
Tea Talks
9 – 15 May: World Mental Health Awareness Week
Tea Talks
Last year, we hosted our first Tea Talks events across YMCAs in England and Wales. They were a great success with plenty of cake eaten and cups of tea drunk. We are aiming to organise even more during Mental Health Awareness Week.
We want to encourage people to take the time to talk to others about how they are doing, and using a Tea Talks is an excellent way of getting people together to help do this.
It’s time for us all to start having these Small Talks to make a Big Difference.
Look out for our Tea Talks events at your local YMCA, or organise your own. We can support you. Get in touch today by emailing our campaigns team.
Walk and Talk
We all know that going for a walk is great for your physical health, but it is also great for your mental health too.
That is why we have combined walking and talking to help promote positive conversations whilst on the move.
This can be implemented as part of a youth group you support or could be hosted with internal staff. Use the TALK acronym to support you, and get outside.
We have created a handy Walk and Talk poster which can be used to encourage people to think about taking part.
Download our Walk & Talk poster
Further support
