Top Tips to Get Comfortable Talking About Mental Health in the Workplace

Talking about mental health can feel uncomfortable, but it’s one of the most powerful ways to break down stigma, build understanding, and create a more supportive workplace.

As Time to Talk Day approaches on 6 February 2025, Mind is asking everyone to “get comfortable” talking about mental health. It’s an opportunity for teams, colleagues, and leaders to come together for the nation’s biggest mental health conversation and create positive change at work.

Why Conversations Matter 

Over the last decade, Time to Talk Day has encouraged millions of conversations across the UK, helping to normalise discussions about mental health. Yet challenges remain, stigma still exists, and not everyone finds it easy to open up.

When we talk about mental health at work, we help tackle misconceptions and build more supportive, understanding workplaces. It creates a culture where colleagues feel heard, supported, and encouraged to seek help without fear of judgement.

Starting the Conversation 

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to starting these conversations, and it’s okay to feel a little awkward. What matters most is showing up and being there for your colleagues.

If you’re not sure where to begin, here are a few simple tips to help:

• Ask open-ended questions: Instead of “Are you okay?”, try “How have things been for you lately?” or “What’s been on your mind?”.
• Listen without judgement: Resist the urge to jump in with solutions. Sometimes, just listening is the best support you can offer, and you don’t need to have all the answers.
• Be patient: Not everyone is ready to share right away, and that’s okay. The fact that you’ve shown you care may make it easier for them to open up in the future.
• Share your own experiences: If it feels right, opening up about your own challenges can help others feel less alone and more comfortable to talk.

How to Get Involved at Work 

Time to Talk Day isn’t just about individual conversations—it’s also a chance to build a workplace culture where mental health matters. Here are a few ways to get involved:

• Host a team event: Organise a coffee morning, lunch and learn, or wellbeing session to encourage open conversations.
• Share resources: Use posters, email templates, or digital assets to spread the word across your workplace.
• Lead by example: Encourage leaders and managers to open up and set the tone for talking about mental health.
• Use social media: Share your workplace initiatives using the hashtag #TimeToTalk to inspire others to get involved.

Make Your Conversations Count 

Whether you’re checking in with a colleague, sharing your own experiences, or organising an event, your efforts can help change lives and strengthen support for your team.

Visit TimeToTalkDay.co.uk to learn more, find workplace resources, and join the nation’s biggest mental health conversation.

Time to Talk Day 2025 is run by Mind and Rethink Mental Illness and is being delivered in partnership with Co-op for the fourth year running.