University Mental Health Day

For university mental health day, the mental health ambassadors wanted to share some tips and advice on how to talk to someone about mental health. Talking is a very valuable tool and we should all aim discuss mental health more openly.

It’s important to talk about mental health, it’s just as important as our physical health and if you feel something isn’t right, it’s important to reach out for help. Starting conversations face-to-face can be daunting and hard for people but there are alternatives such as video calling, talking on the phone, or even by text. These are all great ways to start the conversation.

In terms of talking to someone who you think may be struggling with mental health, there’s a few things you can do to make the conversation more comfortable and open. Firstly, make sure that if you are approaching a person to talk about mental health, you pick a time when both you and the individual are relaxed and open-minded and are ready to have the conversation. Make sure it’s a time when you and the individual are free and not time limited (for example about to go to a meeting or a lecture).

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Remember it’s okay not to be okay.

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You should also make sure you choose a place with minimal distractions; you don’t want to start discussing mental health in the middle of a busy room or when everyone is sitting down for a meal together. Sometimes writing down things you want to talk about can also help make starting the conversation easier. Another tip is to make sure to listen to the person talking, if they don’t feel like you are paying attention to them then they will be less likely to share what’s on their mind.

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Be kind to yourself.

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Make sure that you reassure the person that you won’t disclose what they have told you with others (unless the person is in danger/at risk). Reassure them that you are there for them and if they want to tell you anything at any time, you are there to listen if they need to talk.

If you feel like you want to talk to someone about your own mental health, the above tips can also be used to start a conversation with someone.

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We are here to support your wellbeing at the university.

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If you or anyone you know is struggling with mental health don’t forget there’s lots of support available through the university by accessing wellbeing services or speaking to mental health ambassadors who can signpost you to support services.

Email address: peersupport@chi.ac.uk

-Mental Health Ambassadors