Time to Talk 

This article has been written and medically approved by Pharmacist Conor McSorley GPhC Reg No. 2223070

On the 4th February Time to Talk launch a new campaign called The Power of Small, because they know a small conversation about mental health has the power to make a big difference. If someone you know is feeling anxious or worried, you don’t need to be an expert to support them. Consider using our three top tips:

1) Check in

If someone doesn’t feel ready to meet face-to-face, pick-up the phone, have a video call, or start a group chat letting them know you are there to talk and ready to listen.

2) Listen and reflect

Whether you have a mental health problem or not, this continues to be a challenging time for our mental health and wellbeing. If someone opens up to you, remember that you don’t have to fix things or offer advice. Often just listening and showing you take them seriously, can help someone to cope.

3) Ask questions

Ask the person how they are managing, and ask again if you feel they aren't sharing the full picture. Asking again, with genuine interest, can help someone to open up and explore what they're feeling.