Time to Talk Day 2017

Today is Time to Talk Day – a day to get the nation talking about mental health and keep the conversation going. 

One in four of us will experience a mental health problem each year, but often we don’t talk about it.

Stigma around mental health can stop people from talking openly about their mental health issues, and that can make us feel ashamed or embarrassed – or make us feel like we have to hide them.

That can stop us from seeking support, or finding out about things that could help. When no-one else speaks about their own mental health issues it can make us feel like we’re the only ones having trouble, which can lead to isolation.

Moreover, if people say negative things about mental health problems, or react negatively to people experiencing mental health issues it can make us feel worthless. In short, stigma has a lot to answer for.

It doesn’t need to be like this.

Time to Talk Day is all about having conversations about mental health and opening up an issue that is, more often than not, kept under wraps. Talking openly about mental health can break down the stigma surrounding it, which is good for everyone.

As a society we should never be afraid to talk about how we are feeling – life is too important.

So, this Time to Talk Day, we’re asking you to start talking.

You don’t have to be an expert - it’s the little things that make a big difference. It can be as simple as making time to have a cup of tea or go for a walk, or listening to someone talk about how they feel.

Being open about mental health and ready to listen, or even sharing your own experiences, can make a positive difference to someone’s life. We need to look out for each other, now more than ever.

Working closely with the Students’ Union the University is committed to supporting students and staff with mental health issues and a new action plan is being developed, which will ensure we’re doing everything we can as part of the Time to Change pledge. This pledge aims to improve the knowledge, attitudes and behaviour of staff and students at Sussex around mental health.

Time to Change – the wider element of the Time to Talk Day - offers some handy tips on how to start the conversation, such as telling someone how you’re feeling today, or calling someone you haven’t spoken to for a while and asking how they are.

If you’re not sure where to start and feel like you don’t know much about mental health, then try this Mental Health Quiz, which will give you loads of interesting info and bust some myths.

If you or a friend would like some support around mental health then you can find more information on our Health and Wellbeing web pages, or book an appointment at the Student Life Centre.