Time to
Talk Day
On 5th February 2026, we are celebrating Time to Talk Day. On this day, we remember that talking about mental health shouldn’t be taboo and we can be open about how we truly feel.
Time to Talk Day is about one thing: getting comfortable to start talking about mental health and making it an everyday conversation. This annual event encourages friends, families, communities and workplaces to come together to talk, listen and help change lives.
Conversations about mental health aren’t always easy, but they are essential. Sharing experiences or simply listening can make a world of difference. Talking helps us feel less alone and opens the door to finding support.
In Scotland, mental illness affects 1 in 4 people, with nearly 1 in 5 experiencing at least two anxiety symptoms and 1 in 100 experiencing schizophrenia. Although these statistics show that mental health struggles are common, stigma and societal pressures can still make talking about it hard. Men, in particular, are less likely to discuss mental health, which can make the thought of opening up even more challenging.
Many around us may be facing tough times alone. Our language on mental health matters: it can be the difference between someone seeking support and reaching crisis.
“I don’t need to worry when I come here because I don’t stress out about maybe having said the wrong thing because I know we all feel the same and have all been through similar things.”
A person who attends our resource centre in Castle Douglas in Dumfries and Galloway shares how the peer support group provides a safe, understanding space to talk openly about their mental health.
How do I start a safe conversation about mental health?
Maybe you’ve noticed a friend or family member has not quite been themselves lately and you’re not sure how to bring it up with them. Starting the conversation around mental health doesn’t have to be complicated or scary. Here are a few questions you could ask to create a safe space for them to open up:
- How have you been feeling lately?
- Is there anything on your mind that you’d like to talk about?
- I’ve noticed you seem a bit different recently. How are things going for you?
- How are you coping with everything that’s going on in your life right now?
- How could I help you?
Consider that this may be the first time this person shares this, which can be overwhelming. Do not judge or take anything personally. They might not want to look for solutions right now. Just reassure them that help is there and openly listen to their feelings.
To learn more about how you can start talking about your own mental health and how you can help support others with theirs, read our ‘supporting others with their mental health’ and ‘talking about your mental health’ resources.
Reach out: Check in with someone and ask how they’re doing. One small conversation and a smile can make a huge difference for someone who is carrying their burden alone.
Create space for work conversations: Organise a coffee morning, group chat or a walk with work colleagues to talk and connect. Opening up can feel easier whilst on a walk, as less eye contact can make being vulnerable less intimidating. Encourage open discussions about topics they might find difficult to start, like stress, friendships or even financial worries, but make sure they’re comfortable talking.
Use creative outlets: Expressing your feelings through writing, art, music or even workouts can be a helpful way to process your emotions. You don’t have to be “good” at these activities to feel the benefits. Getting your feelings out in a creative way can feel freeing and give you space to process what’s on your mind.
Donate to Change Mental Health today to help us create safe, non-judgmental spaces where people can meet, share their personal experiences and create supportive networks.
We are proud to run peer support groups in many of our services across Scotland. Your support will help us develop more groups, enabling open conversations across our services. Peer support provides a space where people can talk openly and feel understood. Find where your nearest Change Mental Health service is here.
Your donation helps us build a future where no one faces mental illness alone. Whatever the size, your generosity provides spaces for anyone seeking support to talk openly about their mental health, be heard and build meaningful connections with others who understand.
Help us spread the word about #TimetoTalkDay by starting conversations in person or online. When one person opens up, it can inspire others to do the same and create a ripple effect of support.
You can also make a difference by requesting support cards from us to display on local noticeboards, spreading awareness and helping more people connect with mental health resources.
To find extra resources for schools, workplaces or clubs and more information about how you can campaign and support Time to Talk Day, visit the official Time to Talk Day website.
support
Our National Advice and Support Service can help you and people you care for with mental health concerns and money worries.
We can link and signpost you to relevant local and national support, including our own Change Mental Health services, as well supporting with debt, grants and benefits.
The service is open Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm (closed for lunch between 12.30pm to 1.30pm). Contact 0808 8010 515, email advice@changemh.org or fill in the form on the service webpage.
For full details about the service, visit the National Advice and Support Service webpage.
