Time to talk about mental health

PEOPLE across Warrington are being asked to have positive conversations about mental health on “Time to Talk Day” on February 2.
Borough Council chiefs are urging residents to talk about how positive conversations can change lives.
They want people to talk about about mental health in their workplace, school, college, or among family and friends.
One in four will experience a mental health problem in any given year, but many are too afraid to talk about it. Being open about mental health –  and ready to listen –   can make a significant and positive difference to someone’s life.
The public health team will also be publishing a new section on Warrington’s mental health awareness website – www.happyoksad.co.uk  The new section will give details of services which offer free information, advice and support to people with money worries or debt.
Money, debt and mental health are closely linked.  Worrying about money or debt can lead to stress, or make existing mental health problems worse.
Some mental health problems can make it more difficult for people to manage their money. To help, the council will be providing information and resources in the new section about managing money and mental health.
Cllr Maureen McLaughlin, lead member for public health, said: “Talking about mental health makes us realise that we are not alone when we
experience problems, and it can help us to understand mental health issues a little better, so that we are more able to support our friends and colleagues when they need it.
“Being listened to helps us feel that other people care and are interested in what we have to say.
“Having positive conversations are important in helping people to take care of their own mental health. So we’re asking people to join us on February 2 and get talking!”
Find out more by visiting www.time-to-change.org.uk/timetotalkday