Today is Time to Talk Day (Thursday 6 February), an annual campaign led by charities Mind and Rethink Mental Illness that aims to encourage open, honest conversations about mental health and create supportive communities.
There are lots of resources on the Time To Talk Day website, including:
UOK Brighton & Hove will be hosting a free in-person event at Jubilee Library from 11am to 3pm today. Anyone can come along to speak about their mental health and learn more about UOK’s support services. Look out for the pink UOK deck chairs at the information point.
Councillor Tristram Burden, Cabinet member for Adult Social Care, Public Health and Service Transformation, said: “Time to Talk Day is the nation’s biggest mental health conversation.
“Mental health is a very significant area of challenge in our city, and this year, we want to encourage everyone in Brighton & Hove to get comfortable talking about their mental health with their friends, families, colleagues, communities and workplaces. And to raise awareness of the support that’s available.
“Mental health problems can affect anyone at any time, so being able to speak freely about mental health is crucial. We all need to work together to reduce stigma and create supportive communities with open, honest dialogue about mental health.
“Talking about mental health isn’t always easy, but these conversations can be life changing. They make it easier for us to seek professional help when we need it, and to be more aware of the steps we can take at home, at work or at school, to support ourselves and others through difficult times”
If you are struggling with your mental health, it’s important to reach out for help. There are a range of local support services available, such as:
