We all need to know when to shut up.

Sometimes it draws attention to a justified cause. Sometimes it’s to give space to those who know better than us. Sometimes it’s simply to draw breath (Note to self: exhale).

But if there’s one thing that I won’t/can’t-even-I-wanted-to shut up about, it’s mental health.

Due to my life experience (personal/professional etc), I’ve become a go-to person on the subject. Looking for tips on managing mental health absence? I’ve got it covered. Feeling frustrated about the waiting times to get treatment? Let’s explore solutions. Confused about whether a mental health issue is classified as a ‘disability’? I can quote you the Equalities Act.

And here’s the thing.

Once you start talking, you can’t stop.

You’re at work and mention your therapy appointment – and other’s start mentioning their counselling too. You mention you’re not feeling great – and your peers feel able to open up about their struggles.

These conversations about mental health have become unavoidable during COVID. We are all anxious. We are all trying to manage daily challenges.  

Opening up about mental health can smell fear. It’s a like a Harry Potter boggart and normalising the topic is your patronus charm.

This World Mental Health Day the theme is ‘Mental Health for All’. Just as no one’s life has been untouched by this global situation, no one’s brain has been left behind (however, let’s also remember we all are facing unique challenges and health inequality is a huge issue).

Maybe by World Mental Health Day 2021 I’ll be able to pause for breath. You start the conversation for me and let’s enjoy my silence.

Psst. I know it’s not easy to start talking about this topic. Here are three places to get more info:

Let’s Chat tool for managers from See Me

Mental Health at Work hub

Time to Change Tips