Mental Health: How to start the conversation

/ Beth

I get told I talk a lot. I’m a prolific chatterer about everything and nothing. So, I decided to put this to good use and talk about something really important… mental health.

I became a Time to Change Champion to go out and talk to people about mental health and hopefully, help to break down the stigma. Sharing your own experiences to help others is really empowering and I’ve met some awesome people doing the same.

(Two awesome ladies I met through Time to Change celebrating my 30th with me ❤️)

I’ve been reading some epic blogs about it and think it’s really brave of these people to share. So thank you for doing that.

Did you know that just by writing a blog you could change someone’s life? Did you know that by asking how someone is can help too?

If you’re not much of a writer but want to help someone, here are some ways to start the conversation:

  1. ‘Hi, how are you?’
  2. ‘How are you feeling?’
  3. ‘I know you’re not feeling so good right now but if you need to talk, I’m here’
  4. ‘Is everything ok? I’m here if you need me’
  5. ‘You’re not on your own, I’m here to listen’
  6. ‘Is there anything I can do to help?’

Just letting someone know that you’re there for them can really help.

When I get really low, really angry or really upset, my partner always says ‘is there anything I can do to help?’ Most of the time, there isn’t but just letting me know that he’s there, really helps. Because of my Alexithymia, sometimes j can’t even tell what’s happening with my moods. But it’s nice to know someone cares and accepts me.

So this 2018, if you haven’t already, start the mental health conversation. It only takes a ‘How are you?’ to make a difference ❤️

Daily Prompt: Conversation

31 thoughts on “Mental Health: How to start the conversation”

  1. Lovely words. Yes, sometimes the thing that helps so much is so simple. Feeling heard and accepted is a balm to the soul. For those of us who think out loud and can’t figure out how we’re feeling until we get all our words out, it is amazing to have supportive listeners who can just…listen.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    • It is, isn’t it? It’s amazing what someone can do by listening to someone else. Sometimes I’m terrible at listening as I’m too busy hearing a conversation two people over or trying to work out the background music when I’m out in public. It’s hard but good to have my partner who understands! Thank you for your lovely comment & well done on your Liebster nomination! 🙂

      Like

      Reply

  2. You never know if you don’t ask. Sometimes the words aren’t forthcoming. I think the most powerful thing someone can say to me, personally, is “I’m here for you if you want to talk.” Speaks volumes and makes me comfortable to discuss. Mental health is beyond important for our overall being, so I’m really glad you shared on starting the conversation. Thank you.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

  4. Pingback: Liebster Award nomination – Mental Health @ Home

  7. Brilliant post! I couldn’t agree more; sometimes just letting someone know you are there is a powerful thing. Mental illness can be a lonely place, but if we all simply remember to ask each other how we are feeling, this could really help. Well done you for reaching out and encouraging others 💖

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

  8. Pingback: The Awesome Blogger Award! | Girl with the Paw Print Tattoo

  10. Pingback: The Mystery Blogger Award Nomination – With Being Alive

  12. This was a fantastic post and I could not agree more with you! It is so helpful to share with others what you are going through because they might have the advice you need or just the great outlet you need! I have found that blogging has made a huge difference in my life because not only do I love to write, I love helping others and learning from them! I am looking forward to continuing to read your posts! Sending you love and comfort!!!

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    • Thank you so much for the lovely feedback. I absolutely agree with you. Have you? That’s awesome, well done. What you’re writing can really save someone’s life and that’s a really special thing!

      Like

      Reply

  13. Talking about everything and nothing is a great talent and will get you a long way.
    Please feel free to look at my new blog. here’s what i’m about
    Hi., My name is Barry.
    I’m a big reader of self help and personal development books. I’ve read and listened to loads now with out putting action in to the words I read/listen too
    I decided in January 2017 to start recording my journey and see what I could learn from setting my own goals targets and really pushing myself. I decided it was important to wait a year before publishing any post and my dairies. Well this is where I am now!
    It’s been a rocky trip and I talk about my battles with alcohol, drugs, anxiety, depression, work and feeling alone! Its not all bad and I have many highs too but ultimately I’m sticking to a commitment I made myself a year ago. A project for change to help me and others.
    A Year Ago Today

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

Leave a comment