Time to Talk Day – is on 5 February 2026. Organised by MIND and Rethink Mental Illness, it is a day that encourages us to have conversations about mental health that are open and honest.

We can all struggle with our emotions and mental wellbeing. We can all face challenges in our lives and live every day with difficulties that can have a profound and debilitating impact on our mental health. Speaking to others about how we feel can be immeasurably valuable and can help lessen feelings of loneliness and assist us to gain perspective and a sense of support.

Time to Talk Day asks us to be proactive and reach out to those around us who might be struggling and in doing so reduce the stigma that still surrounds mental health difficulties. You can find resources to help start these conversations on the MIND website.

Ways you can take part in Time to Talk Day

• Reach out to someone you’ve been meaning to contact. This could be a friend, neighbour, family member, or colleague. A call, text, card, or simple “thinking of you” message can make a real difference.
• Create a safe space to talk. If you know someone who is struggling, can you offer them time, empathy, and understanding? Sometimes listening without judgement is enough; at other times, supporting someone to seek professional help can be invaluable.
• Use social media. Social media can be a powerful tool for breaking down barriers and reducing stigma. Sharing supportive messages or resources can help normalise conversations around mental health.
• Arrange a community event. A coffee morning or informal gathering can provide a welcoming environment where people feel comfortable, accepted, and are able to connect.
• Look after yourself. Talking about mental health can be difficult. Share only what feels right for you, and be mindful of your own wellbeing.

Loneliness is one of the biggest challenges many people face today. Time to Talk Day is an opportunity to connect and feel less alone in our struggles. However, sometimes speaking to a professional rather than a friend is what feels safest or most helpful.

If you feel that you would like to speak to someone about difficulties you are having, you might find speaking to a therapist helpful. Paul offers Psychotherapy and counselling, EMDR and Clinical Supervision. If you are struggling with any issue and would like to make an appointment with Paul please call Paul on 07843 813 537 or fill in the form on the Contact Page, if he doesn’t answer he is probably in a session, please leave him a message and he will call you back as soon as he can. For more information about Paul please take a look at the About Paul Page, Frequently Asked Questions Page and The Counselling Services Page.