Mental Health Awareness February 2019 What’s Going on this February 7 th February - The time to change campaign is a growing movement of people changing how we all think and act about mental health problems. Check out the website for more information on how you can help. time-to-change.org.uk/ Blustery Days This month is often a difficult one, one of the coldest of the year and it still feels too dark. At the same time, news from home and abroad continues to be unsettling and may not be contributing to a feeling of wellbeing. It therefore seems a good time to talk about how we can be inspired to help each other if we are struggling with mental health. Alternatively, if you would like to be distracted with soothing music and some new winter vocabulary, see our recommendations overleaf. Josephine Bey Clinical Director – Wellbeing Solutions Management Time to talk This year’s Time to Talk Day is about bringing together the right ingredients, to have a conversation about mental health. Whether that’s tea, biscuits and close friends or a room full of people challenging mental health stigma. The aim is to get everyone talking. The campaign aims to raise awareness that one in four of us suffer from poor mental health. Sometimes this struggle may be invisible because of no apparent physical signs of illness. However, someone you know may be as profoundly debilitated as someone with else who has a serious physical illness. Having conversations about mental health helps break down stereotypes, improve relationships, aid recovery and take the stigma out of something that affects us all. There are lots of different ways to have a conversation about mental health. And you don’t have to be an expert to talk. Ideas for reaching out There is no right way to reach out; which ever way you choose will be a step in the right direction. Calls, texts, email, visits and even letters will all be welcome at different times with different people. Reach out and put time aside, make a plan. Be upfront and tell them you are worried and why. Listen, don’t judge and show your acceptance. Some people may want to present as ‘normal’ which may mean continuing to laugh and have fun together because they don’t want to be identified by their problem. If it’s too painful to talk about, don’t bring it up again, but keep reaching out to stay in touch. Remember that “actions speak louder than words” so act now. 14th February - Valentine’s Day is a day of romance and happiness for many couples, but for individuals alone or fresh from a break-up, it can be difficult time of year. Try and reach out to friends,colleagues and family that maybe a little gloomy on February14th and show them you care. February 25 to March 3 - Sock It to Eating Disorders takes place every year during Eating Disorders Awareness Week. Team up with your workplace, and wear your brightest, boldest socks. Join hundreds of Beat supporters across the country get involved in fundraising activities to take a stand against eating disorders. www.beateatingdisorders.org. uk