Thursday 2nd February is Time to Talk Day 2023 and it's the perfect time to start a conversation about mental health. Mental health affects us all, so it's important to make it a priority. Here at Sense Massage Therapy, we believe that taking the time to talk about mental health can help to reduce stigma and create a more open and understanding society.

The History of Time to Talk Day

Time to Talk Day was first established in 2014 by Time to Change, a mental health charity in England. The campaign was created in response to the increasing stigma around mental health issues, with the aim of encouraging people to talk more openly about their mental health. The day is celebrated each year on the first Thursday of February, and is an opportunity for people to come together and have honest conversations about mental health. It is a chance for people to share their experiences, ask questions and learn more about mental health issues. Time to Talk Day has become an important event for increasing awareness and understanding of mental health, and breaking down the barriers and stigma that still surround it.

Time to Talk Day: What Can I do?

This Time to Talk Day, let's break the silence and start the conversation. Here are three tips to help you get started:

1. Reach out to someone you trust: Talking to a friend or family member can be a great way to start the conversation about mental health.
    
   Reaching out to someone you trust can be a great way to start a dialogue around mental health. Whether it's a friend, family member or a professional, talking to somebody about your emotions can be incredibly beneficial. It can help to make sense of your thoughts and feelings, and can provide an opportunity to gain a different perspective. It's important to remember that you don't have to go through this alone, and that speaking to somebody can be a positive step towards feeling better.
   
   
2. Make time for self-care: Taking time for yourself is an important part of looking after your mental health.
    
   In a world where we are constantly being asked to give our time and energy to others, it is important to remember to take care of ourselves too. We all need to make time for self-care, whether that be a relaxing bath, having a massage, or simply a few moments of quiet reflection. Taking time for ourselves allows us to recharge, relax and refocus, enabling us to be more productive and better able to take care of those around us. Self-care is essential for our physical and mental wellbeing, so make sure to make it a priority.
   
   
3. Talk to a professional: If you're feeling overwhelmed or need some extra support, it's important to talk to a professional.
    
   Speaking to a professional about mental health can be a daunting experience, however, it can be a hugely beneficial step in taking control of your wellbeing. It can be helpful to talk to someone who is trained to understand and work with mental health issues, and who can provide you with the appropriate support. Professional help can come in many forms, from counselling and psychotherapy to cognitive behavioural therapy. It is important to find the right type of support for you, and to feel comfortable with the person you are talking to. Taking the step to discuss your mental health with a professional can be a positive step towards improving your wellbeing. If you need to talk to someone right away, you can call the Samaritans on 116 123 or email them at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. This phone number is free to call from both landlines and mobiles, including pay-as-you-go mobiles. You do not need to have any credit or call allowance on your plan to call them.

Let's make Time to Talk Day 2023 a day to start the conversation about mental health.

Together, we can create a more understanding and supportive society.