Time to Talk Day is an annual campaign dedicated to fostering open conversations about mental health.
Run by Mind and Rethink Mental Illness in England, in partnership with Co-op, the initiative takes place across the UK with support from SAMH (Scottish Action for Mental Health) in Scotland, Inspire in Northern Ireland, and Time to Change Wales.
The day encourages people to engage in meaningful discussions with family, friends, and colleagues, helping to create supportive communities where mental health is a comfortable topic of conversation.
Breaking the stigma
Since its launch in 2014 by Time to Change — a campaign focused on ending mental health stigma and discrimination — Time to Talk Day has worked to change attitudes and encourage openness.
Despite increased awareness around mental health, challenges remain. Data from Time to Talk Day 2024 revealed that nearly two-thirds of the UK public put on a brave face to avoid discussing their mental health.
Almost half of those surveyed admitted they are less likely to open up because they do not want to burden others, particularly in difficult times.
The power of conversation
Talking about mental health can make a significant difference. Open and honest discussions help to break down stigma and encourage those who need support to seek it without fear of judgment.
By normalising these conversations, individuals and communities can become more comfortable discussing mental health, fostering a culture of understanding and support.
Isle of Wight council motion
Last November, the Isle of Wight council passed a motion for proactive mental health and suicide stigma reduction.
Proposed by Ventnor and St Lawrence councillor Ed Blake (Con), the motion listed four actions to be taken:
- promoting training for everyone around mental health and suicide,
- increased funding for support services,
- developing and promoting community-based support programmes and peer networks and
- collaborating with local businesses and organisations, including engaging them to promote mental health initiatives in the community and workplaces.
At the time, Isle of Wight council’s Mental Health Champion, Cllr Michael Lilley, said,
“When we talk about funding, mental health services across the Island and UK are in crisis.
“We need to get all the parties – and I hope the Isle of Wight Council takes a lead – to talk about this funding issue.”
Mental health hub
Earlier this week, the opening of new £6.7 million, 11-room mental health facility in the Isle of Wight’s county town was reported to have moved a step closer.
Originally due to open in Spring 2024, the hub has been beset by a variety of delays.
It’s hoped the hub will allow for a ‘better patient and staff experience’ and improved accessibility with the option of late opening times. It will also stop mental health care needs from ‘escalating’ and promote the sustainability and regeneration of the High Street.
Encouraging more people to talk
The message behind Time to Talk Day remains clear: everyone has mental health, and talking about it benefits both individuals and society as a whole.
This year, the campaign encourages people to take a step towards openness and make conversations about mental health a normal part of everyday life.
Head over to the Time To Talk website for more information.
