Statistically, 1 in 4 people in the UK will experience a mental health problem each year. #TimeToTalk day, held this week, aims to get people talking about their mental health to negate feelings of isolation, shame and worthlessness to ultimately save lives.

Conversations about mental health can save lives, but it doesn’t necessarily have to be difficult. Talking to others about mental health can be as simple as having a tea break or listening to someone else’s feelings.

Dr Steve Thomas, Clinical Director for Mental Health at NHS Clinical Commissioning Group said: “There is great importance in recognising people as a ‘whole’ and not having a separation of ‘physical’ and ‘mental’ health or illness. Together as individuals, citizens, colleagues, family and friends we can increase our understanding of mental distress and illness with conversations and understand how common these problems are.”

For more information about #TimeToTalk please click here

There are also some great resources on the Sheffield IAPT website http://iaptsheffield.shsc.nhs.uk/ and the Sheffield Mental Health Guide http://www.sheffieldmentalhealth.org.uk/.