Mental health charity urges people across Pembrokeshire and Wales to start conversations that can change lives
PEOPLE across Pembrokeshire and the rest of Wales are being encouraged to start open and honest conversations about mental health as Time To Talk Day returns on February 5.
Led by Mind Cymru, the national awareness day is the UK’s biggest mental health conversation, creating space for people to talk, listen and support one another in a bid to break down stigma and change lives.
This year’s theme, ‘Brave The Big Talk’, focuses on encouraging conversations about mental health experiences that often remain unspoken – including issues such as waiting for therapy, hearing voices, or coping after a suicide attempt.
While progress has been made in reducing stigma around mental health, Mind Cymru says many people still struggle to speak openly about how they feel, particularly when emotions feel overwhelming or deeply personal.
To help people get the conversation started, the charity has shared practical guidance for both supporting others and opening up about personal experiences.
For those supporting someone else, Mind Cymru advises asking open questions, listening without judgement, using positive body language, and resisting the urge to “fix” the problem. Simply being present and listening, the charity says, can be powerful in itself. People are also encouraged to be patient, recognising that someone may not be ready to talk straight away.
For those sharing their own feelings, Mind Cymru recommends finding a way that feels comfortable – whether face-to-face, by phone, video call, message or writing things down. Choosing the right time and place can make conversations easier, as can practising what you want to say beforehand. Above all, the charity encourages honesty and openness, even when it feels difficult.
Mind Cymru is also urging people to get involved in simple ways, from texting a friend to ask how they are, inviting colleagues for a cup of tea and a chat, hosting workplace discussions, supporting school assemblies on mental health, or sharing messages online using the hashtag #TimeToTalk.
Julian John, Associate Director of Mind Cymru Operations, said:
“It can be hard to talk about what we’re going through with the people closest to us, but it can so often be the first step towards feeling better too. Getting support and encouragement from people who have been in similar situations, or simply finding the right moment to express our feelings out loud to someone who is able and willing to listen, can be really valuable.”
He added:
“Mind Cymru wants to make it as easy as possible for everyone to start conversations about mental health this Time To Talk Day, and has created information packs full of simple ideas to get families, schools, community groups and workplaces talking.”
Residents looking for support can access a range of services, including Mind’s helplines and online resources, the Side by Side online community, Samaritans on 116 123, and the SHOUT crisis text service by texting 85258.
More information about Time To Talk Day and available resources can be found at www.mind.org.uk/get-involved/time-to-talk-day.
