What 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.

Time to Talk Day 2024 will take place on 1st February 2024. It's run by Mind and Rethink Mental Illness and is being delivered in partnership with Co-op for the third year running.

The more conversations we have, the better life is for everyone. Talking about mental health isn't always easy and sometimes it's even harder to say how you really feel. But a conversation has the power to change lives.

Time to Talk Day is the perfect opportunity to start a conversation about mental health.

Why talking is important

1 in 4 of us will experience a mental health problem in any given year. And the cost of living crisis is only making it harder to look after our mental health – the poorest fifth of the population are twice as likely to develop a mental health problem.

Sometimes it's easier to tell people we're 'fine' than it is to say how we really feel.

We want everyone to feel comfortable talking about mental health – whenever they like. Recent research shows how important open conversations in communities are to support everyone's mental wellbeing. 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.

Time to Talk Day is the perfect opportunity to start a conversation about mental health.

Support available in North Tyneside

If you are struggling with your mental health, there is support available.

• North Tyneside Talking Therapies
  North Tyneside Talking Therapies is a friendly and approachable service that helps people with problems such as anxiety, depression, stress and phobias. You can refer yourself to Talking Therapies, or you can also ask your GP or healthcare provider to refer you.
  Find out more
  
  
• CNTW Initial Response Team
  The Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust provide 24 hour access to urgent mental health care and treatment through their Initial Response Team. The team is made up of clinical leads, qualified mental health clinicians and experienced support staff.
  Find out more
  
  
• Tyneside and Northumberland Mind
  Tyneside and Northumberland Mind are a local mental health charity who can support anyone experiencing a mental health need.
  Find out more
  
  
• Age UK North Tyneside
  We can provide specialist support for people living with dementia, as well as respite services for carers. We can also help you find the right support for you if you're not sure where to turn.
  Get in touch

Improve your mental health

There are steps you can take to improve your mental health. While these steps can help lift your mood, they are not a replacement for medical support. You should speak to your GP if you feel like your mental health is affecting your daily life or causing you distress.

1. Connect with the people around you.
   Close relationships with friends and family can add up to 7 years to our lives.  Have a conversation, pass the time of day, make time for a chat or a cuppa with a neighbour. If you want to expand your friendship circle, try one of our Social Groups.
   
   
2. Be active.
   Exercise makes you feel good and can improve your mood. Find a physical activity that you enjoy and suits your level of mobility and fitness.
   
   
3. Take notice.
   Whether you are walking around a local park, eating your lunch or talking to friends, savour the moment and take notice of what's around you. It will help you appreciate what matters to you. You can find your nearest park here.
   
   
4. Keep learning.
   Enjoy achieving a new challenge and boost your confidence by trying something new or rediscovering an old interest. Find out more about Adult Learning from North Tyneside Council.
   
   
5. Give.
   Join a volunteer group or just do something nice for someone – it can be incredibly rewarding and a good way to connect. VODA provide support, advice and training to volunteers.