Time to Talk Day 2025

Time to Talk Day

Get Comfortable Talking About Mental Health This Time to Talk Day

We want everyone to feel comfortable talking about mental health. But we know that’s not always easy. Time to Talk Day 2024 revealed that nearly two-thirds of people in the UK put on a brave face to avoid talking about their mental health. Almost half of us hold back because we don’t want to worry others during difficult times.

But talking openly and honestly can be the first step towards better mental health. It helps break down stigma and encourages people to seek support when they need it. That’s why we’re delighted to team up with our community partners, Greater Anglia and Colchester United Football Club, to support this important day.

What is Time to Talk Day? Time to Talk Day is the UK’s biggest mental health conversation. It takes place on Thursday 6 February and encourages friends, families, communities, and workplaces to come together to talk, listen, and change lives. Every year, millions of conversations take place, helping to create a society where we can all speak openly about mental health.

Why it matters

1 in 4 people will experience a mental health problem in any given year.
The cost of living crisis is 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.
Talking about mental health reduces stigma and helps build supportive communities.
Opening up the conversation empowers people to seek help when they need it.

How to get involved This Time to Talk Day, we’re encouraging everyone to get comfortable talking about mental health. There’s no right or wrong way – the important thing is to start the conversation. Here are some simple ways to do that:

Text a friend to check in.
Chat to a colleague over a cuppa.
Go for a walk with a loved one.
Share a message of support on social media.

For guidance and resources to help you start these conversations, visit TimeToTalkDay.co.uk. And if you’re taking part, share your experience on social media using #TimeToTalk – don’t forget to tag us @mnessexmind!

Need support or want to help others? At Mid and North East Essex Mind, we know how important it is to talk about mental health without fear of judgment. Many people find that just opening up makes a huge difference. If you’re struggling or want to learn how to support someone else, we are here for you. Find out about the services and support we provide here.

Looking out for signs of poor mental health It’s not always easy to tell when someone is struggling, so we’ve put together some information to help you recognise the signs. If you’re concerned about someone, a simple conversation could make all the difference.

If you need help, you’re not alone

Our North East Essex Sanctuary is open 7 days a week, 365 days a year. It is available for anyone (aged 18+) living in Colchester and Tendring. For more information about how to self refer to the Sanctuary please visit neesanctuary.co.uk.

If you live in Mid Essex, the Mid Essex Sanctuary provides a safe, supportive space where people experiencing emotional distress or mental health crisis can receive support outside of normal working hours. This is a community-based alternative to crisis mental health services.

The Mid Essex Sanctuary is from 10am to 1am 365 days a year, and you can be referred by NHS 111 (option 2).

For the fourth year running, Time to Talk Day is being run by Mind and Rethink Mental Illness in partnership with Co-op.

So, this Time to Talk Day, let’s get comfortable talking about mental health – whenever and wherever we can.