It is important to have a conversation about mental health because it is something that we all have, except because any struggle with it are largely invisible, a conversation is a way to broach the subject of any struggles so that the person can receive help or reassurance.
How to open up to others
If you are struggling with your mental health and are finding it difficult to open up to others take a moment to have a think about what you would say to a loved one who you believed was struggling. What would be the safe places that you may suggest they go to speak to someone who is professional in the mental health field, such as charities, helplines, GPs etc. If you're very concerned, you can always ring an anonymous helpline and see what they say - the person on the other end of the line will have helped people who have struggled to voice what is going on for them before or if they are afraid or feel a bit lost as to what the next steps may be, that person can guide you or just listen to you if that's what you want.
How to listen to others who want to talk
If someone has approached you and expressed that they are struggling with their mental health at the moment then simply listen and when they are finished talking, ask if they would like advice or your support to seek further help. Ask what it is that you can do for them next that would help them to feel a little better or at least that they have options moving forwards. They may just be grateful that you listened without interrupting them and you can always gently suggest speaking to someone via a helpline or if in doubt, calling 111. In an emergency where someone has taken action that threatens their life or if you seriously think the person is unsafe then call 999 (UK), 911 (USA).
As a next step, you may find it useful to read my post on my recommended books for self-help.
Wishing you the most magickal of days,
Sophie xo
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