Talking about mental health isn’t always easy – especially when you’re not sure how to begin. But if you’re struggling, opening up can make a real difference.
Here are six practical tips to help you get the conversation started from Rachael Rice, Student Adviser (Mental Health and Autism) at Teesside University.
1. Choose someone you trust
Opening up can feel easier when you’re speaking to someone who makes you feel comfortable – a family member, friend, flatmate, GP, or someone from the student support service.
You might even want to speak to all of the above because different people may be able to offer different kinds of support.
2. Think about what you want to say
Writing down some of the things you want to talk about on your phone or a piece of paper can make it easier to collect your thoughts and get started.
If you’re still finding it challenging, try filling in the gaps in these sentences:
- “Recently, I’ve been feeling ______.”
- “Can I talk to you about ______?”
- “______ has been on my mind.”
3. Pick the right time and place
Environment matters when you’re talking about your mental health. Choose the place you’ll feel most comfortable.
That may be a scheduled meeting on campus with a student wellbeing adviser, a relaxed moment at home with your mum, a confidential phone call with a qualified counsellor, or a group discussion with your friends in a café.
4. Be open and honest
Young Minds says that being clear about how you’re feeling can help others understand what you’re going through and how they can support you.
That doesn’t mean you have to have all the answers. Being honest about not knowing how you’re feeling or how to communicate it is just as important.
You don’t have to share everything at once either – start with what feels comfortable.
5. Talk about support
There are lots of different types of support. You may just need someone to listen to you, or you might want them to take a more proactive role in helping you find the right help.
It’s okay to tell someone directly what kind of support or outcomes you’re looking for from the conversation.
6. Keep the conversation going
Talking about mental health is rarely a one-off. It’s the start of an ongoing conversation.
The NHS suggests talking about mental health can get easier and more comfortable the more you do it too.
Staying connected and checking in is hugely important and can make a real difference to your mental health.
Starting a conversation about mental health can feel daunting, but it’s one of the most meaningful things you can do. Talking to someone else can remind you that you’re not alone.
If you’re a student at Teesside University and need support, get in touch with the Student Life team to speak to someone and make an appointment. You can also get confidential support 24/7 through the Student Assistance Programme.
For urgent help, call the emergency services on 999.
You may be interested in this blog about how to support someone else who opens up about their mental health.