Time to Talk Day: Starting Important Conversations About Mental Health
Mental health challenges are increasingly common in the UK, yet many people still feel unable to talk openly about how they are feeling, particularly in the workplace. The number of people experiencing common mental health problems increased by 45% between 1993 and 2023/24, affecting both men and women.
Despite this, stigma remains a significant barrier. A study by McKinsey & Company found that nearly half of people with a diagnosable mental health condition believe their colleagues would think less of them if they knew. More than half worry their character would be doubted, while half fear others would assume they have little talent or skill. These concerns go a long way to explaining why so many people choose to stay silent, even when they are struggling.
Time to Talk Day exists to change that. Led by Mind and Rethink Mental Illness in partnership with the Co-op, it is the UK’s biggest annual mental health conversation, encouraging open and everyday discussions about how we are really feeling. By normalising these conversations and helping create supportive environments, the campaign reminds us that talking can be the first step towards feeling better supported.
How your workplace can make a difference
Workplaces play a crucial role in shaping how comfortable people feel when it comes to opening up about mental health. The good news is that it does not take a complete overhaul to make a real difference. Small, consistent actions can shift the culture significantly over time.
One of the most effective steps an organisation can take is introducing workplace wellbeing champions. These are approachable, empathetic colleagues who listen without judgment, offer guidance, and point employees towards further support when they need it. Their presence sends a clear message that mental health is taken seriously, and gives people a safe and familiar point of contact when things feel difficult.
Keeping mental health visible through regular internal communications is equally valuable. Whether that is a newsletter, an intranet update or a poster in a shared space, sharing helplines, support services and practical wellbeing tips reinforces that help is available and encourages people to reach out before things escalate.
Consistent one-to-one check-ins between managers and employees can also make a significant difference. When these conversations are framed as supportive catch-ups rather than performance reviews, employees are far more likely to open up about stress, workload or how they are feeling more generally. It creates a rhythm of trust that benefits both individuals and teams.
Finally, if your organisation offers an Employee Assistance Programme, make sure your team actually knows about it. EAPs provide confidential counselling, practical advice and a range of support services, but they only work when employees feel confident using them. Actively promoting the service, explaining how to access it and reassuring staff about confidentiality is just as important as having it in place. Our admin-free Employee Assistance Programme helps your team access the support they need easily, without adding complexity or cost to your organisation.
Take action this Time to Talk Day
Time to Talk Day is a reminder that small actions can have a big impact. Asking a colleague how they are really doing, sharing a helpful resource or simply creating space for an honest conversation can all help to break down stigma and build a more supportive workplace culture.
Find out more and get involved at timetotalkday.co.uk
