There are a number of ways people in the Humber region can reach out for support
Dean Windass taking part in a question and answer session with Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust chair Caroline Flint, on the importance of talking for mental health(Image: Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust)
Time to Talk Day, a national movement encouraging people to open up about their mental health, is being held on Thursday, February 5. Ahead of the day, Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust is sharing the variety of ways people can reach out and talk to others for support with their mental health.
Nationally, the NHS offers Talking Therapies, which can be used to treat many different mental health problems. They involve talking to a trained professional about your thoughts, feelings and behaviours.
People can self-refer to get this psychological help, but for those who are not ready to take that step then talking to friends and family is vitally important. At the Trust’s most recent Annual Members’ Meeting, local sporting personality Dean Windass spoke about how important talking was in mental health.
Reflecting on his own personal journey, he said, “My advice to anyone struggling is please talk to somebody, tell somebody. It’s really good to talk because it might save someone’s life, and it could be your own.”
Reaching out for support can feel intimidating for some, but the simple act of talking does not need to feel that way. Many people can talk to their loved ones, families or friends, but when that is not possible there are people waiting to listen.
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The Trust’s Recovery and Wellbeing College enables conversations about mental health to come naturally through shared activities and mindful moments. The College takes a non-clinical, educational approach to health and wellbeing, offering the space to talk while also enjoying participation in something active or creative.
The Recovery College is free to join and open to everyone, but it is particularly ideal for anyone needing support but not ready for clinical services or those are stepping down from clinical therapy. By offering a broad range of activities for people to access as and when they want to, people can take their recovery at their own pace.
Classes including mindful walks, photography and Tai Chi are among those on offer. Whatever people are interested in, the goal remains the same – to support each other and learn ways to build positive mental health.
Time to Talk Day is the nation’s biggest mental health conversation. Mental health charity Mind said: “It’s a day for all of us to come together to talk, listen and change lives.
“Talking openly and honestly can be the first step towards better mental health for everyone. It can even save lives. Talking can reduce stigma and help people feel comfortable enough to seek help when they need it.”
If you or anyone you know is in need of immediate support for mental health then call NHS 111, Option 2, or visit NHS 111 online. In emergencies, where there is a risk to life, you must always call 999.