Time to Talk

Today is Time to Talk day. Time to Talk Day is the nation’s biggest mental health conversation. Happening every year, it’s a day for friends, families, communities, and workplaces to come together to talk, listen and change lives.

The last three years have shown us just how important it is to look after both our physical and mental health, and the challenges that we are facing as a Country aren’t over yet as we begin 2023. It’s important that we don’t just talk about our mental health on one or two days of the year, or during a pandemic, our conversations should be held as regularly, and openly, and without any fear of judgement or stigma.

It’s ok to talk about mental health, it’s ok to not be ok. Let’s continue to see the positives that have come out of this pandemic in raising awareness of, and talking about, our mental health.

Time to Talk Day 2023 takes place on 2 February 2023, it’s run by Mind and Rethink Mental Illness, and in partnership with the Co-op and with support from Time To Change Wales, See Me and Change Your Mind / Inspire.

We know the more conversations we have, the better life is for everyone. Talking about mental health isn’t aways easy, but a conversation has the power to change lives. The day is all about creating supportive communities by having conversations with family, friends, or colleagues about mental health. We all have mental health, by talking about it we can support ourselves and others.

One in 4 of us will experience a mental health problem in any given year. Talking about mental health reduces stigma, helping to create supportive communities where we can talk openly about mental health and feel empowered to seek help when we need it.

That’s why opening up the conversation about mental health problems is so important – by talking about it we can support ourselves and others.

However you do it, have a conversation about mental health.

If you need some support there are some incredible resources available:

• Riders Minds – dedicated to improving the mental well-being of all equestrians.
• British Grooms – a free 24/7 telephone helpline supported by Racing Welfare for BGA members.
• Equestrian Employers Association – Employers Minds, an online resource dedicated to supporting the mental health and well-being of equestrian employers. 
• Racing Welfare – they offer a 24 hour support line giving people access to support and
  guidance through digital and telephone options.
• Mind – they provide advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem, they campaign to improve services, raise awareness and promote understanding.

Make space in your day for a conversation about mental health this Time to Talk Day.