It’s good to talk. It’s even better to be heard. This World Mental Health Day, help someone feel heard. Share this post to encourage open conversations.

“Progress doesn’t happen overnight. It’s built one step at a time.” Meg shares her experience of depression and anxiety, seeking support, and the role running and fundraising have played in her mental health journey. Drop an emoji below if this resonates with you. 👇

This autumn, two government reviews will help decide the format of our social security system for years to come. The Milburn Review is looking at getting more young people into education, training and work. The Timms Review is looking at the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) process.

Progress doesn't have to look perfect. It can move in zigzags, circles and dips, not just straight lines. Every step forward, no matter how small, still counts.

Avoid easy solutions. What would help someone or what they want to happen will be different for everyone. Don’t try to ‘fix’ or give advice as your first response.

Normalise. Tell them that speaking about how you are feeling is brave - it is nothing to be ashamed of.

Listen and empathise. Listening to their point of view can be more helpful than giving advice. Try to understand how they are feeling.

Consider ways you can open the conversation. Be transparent about your actions and reasons. Avoid using labels like ‘mental health’ or naming conditions.

Plan the best time to talk. Think about the setting and be respectful of their priorities. Ask them when and where they would like to talk.

Encourage them to seek help. Gently encourage them to reach out for support in a way that feels comfortable for them. Follow up and check in. If they are in immediate danger, make sure they are not left alone and that someone stays with them.

Ask questions. Ask if they've felt like this before. Did their feelings change last time? Avoid judging, criticising, or blaming them, or suggesting that they’re being silly.

Listen. Show you’re listening by repeating their words back to them. Don’t try and think of immediate solutions.

Empathise and reassure them. Encourage them to share their feelings, reminding them you care, they're not alone, and things can improve.

Ask the question. Ask someone directly if they are thinking of suicide. Being asked directly might enable someone to open up about how they are feeling.

Worried someone might be thinking about suicide? Here’s what to do. 👇