TODAY is ‘Time to Talk Day’ and Warwickshire residents are being reminded it’s OK to share their difficulties.
Research shows people are often afraid to talk about their mental health experiences as they fear the response and stigma they may receive.
But experts say open, direct and honest conversations can break down barriers and help to end the isolation, shame and worthlessness that too many people feel when experiencing a mental health problem.
A free suicide prevention app ‘Stay Alive’ has also been launched by the Coventry and Warwickshire Health and Care Partnership to help people feeling suicidal or those worried about someone they know.
The app contains tips and practical steps and other locally available resources and information.
Warwickshire County Council health spokesman Les Caborn said: “Creating a conversation around mental health is important to help end the stigma that too many of us feel.
“There are a range of mental health services across Warwickshire to support our residents, delivered in a range of ways, making them accessible to all.”
NHS Trust suicide prevention officer Anne Prendergast added: “We are taking part in Time to Talk day because we want to remind residents that it’s okay to not to be okay and the more we talk, the more lives we can change.
“With supportive tools like the Stay Alive app, having a conversation with another person can be easier and can provide them with the right advice to help someone in need. I would highly recommend downloading Stay Alive today.
“By choosing to be open about mental health, we are all part of a movement that’s changing the conversation around mental health and ensuring that no one is made to feel isolated or alone for having a mental health problem.”
Visit www.warwickshire.gov.uk/mentalhealth for information and www.prevent-suicide.org.uk/find-help-now/stay-alive-app to download the support app.