Time to Talk is a nationwide campaign to get people talking more openly about mental health for one day.

The focus of Time to Talk Day this year is the 'Power of Small', because however you have a conversation about mental health – whether it’s a quick text to a friend, a virtual coffee morning with colleagues, or a socially distanced walk and talk with your family – it has the power to make a big difference.

This year, more than ever, it feels vital to talk – and to tell people if we’re not feeling ok. However, talking isn’t always that easy.  Do you need some inspiration to get the conversations started? Here are a few idea:

Have a virtual coffee morning with colleagues –and don’t forget to share your event on social media, so more people can be inspired to talk.

Send an email round to staff suggesting you all meet for half an hour on the 4^th – everyone can down tools and get together. If you need any help to get the conversation going, why not compile a quick, easy general knowledge quiz? After the quiz, ask people how they are, how they’re coping with Lockdown. If you can, share some of your challenges. Ask your line manager to end the session by reminding people what emotional support they can access in your organisation - and beyond it.

Host a movie night.

 Hosting a virtual film night is a great way to bring people together and talk about mental health. Choose a movie that you think gives a good portrayal of mental health problems, or relationships, or coping in difficult times and download an app like Netflix Party that lets you chat with your friends and family while watching.

 

Moblie Messaging Apps

 Create a group chat and ask some ‘small’ questions. Remember the power of small!

 What small thing helped to lift your mood or brighten your day?

What was your small win today?

 Make it fun and encourage ‘small’ answers that remind us we can survive this!

 “A ginger biscuit with my tea!”

“Walking the dog and stopping to chat with an older lady”

“I bought some wool online. I AM going to learn to knit!”

"I've started cycling! First time in 20 years!"

 

 Bake off.

Many of us have had a go at baking during Lockdown – fancy putting your new baking skills to the test with a virtual bake off? Choose a recipe and bring everyone together on a video chat to bake it at the same time. You can talk about mental health – and how you’re all feeling - while you bake.

Go for a walk.

Many of us find it easier to have a conversation when we’re doing something active. Why not arrange a socially distanced walk with someone you’re allowed to meet, get outside and chat about how you’re feeling?

 

Knit & natter.

Arts and craft activities are a great way to start conversations, either in person or virtually. Do you like to knit, crochet, sew, paint, woodwork? Or have you always wanted to try? There’s probably an online group in your area, but if not, think about inviting a friend/s or neighbour/s to join you for an hour, talking on Zoom, whilst you carry on with your craft. Start the conversation by simply asking “how are you coping with it all?”

Board games.

Similarly, virtual board game nights can provide the perfect atmosphere for an informal conversation about mental health and coping with Lockdown life. Organise a Scrabble night with a friend and factor in a couple of 'chat breaks'.

 

If you want more tips about what to do on Time to Talk day, you can go to the website: https://www.time-to-change.org.uk/get-involved/time-talk-day