Time to Talk

As we approach two years since the beginning of the pandemic, face to face conversations have become even more valuable. Lockdowns, working from home and virtual catchups have changed the way we interact with our colleagues – it’s time to talk! 

Taking place on 3rd February 2022, the Time to Talk Day campaign by Mind and Rethink Mental Illness aims to encourage conversations surrounding our mental health. Each conversation we have, whether with family, friends or colleagues, contributes to reducing mental health stigma. The objective is to help create supportive communities, where we can talk openly and feel empowered to seek help when we need it.  

At MSB, as our staff return to the office, we’re encouraging everyone to enjoy a coffee morning in celebration of Time to Talk day where they can bake, buy or sell cakes for their colleagues and have overdue conversations and catch ups.  

As a firm, we recognise the importance of mental health and wellbeing, ensuring all of our staff feel supported. Through our Employee Assistance Platform, Perkbox, staff can access free confidential counselling sessions where they can take time to prioritise their mental wellbeing.  

Another way in which the firm supports its staff is through the MindMap training of Mental Health First Aiders. The role of a Mental Health First Aider is to act as the first point of contact for those suffering, providing confidential support and being a friendly face to confide in. 

As Practice Manager overseeing HR in the firm, Joanne Dalton understands the importance of having support available for staff who may be struggling. Jo believes that it is extremely important to have individuals of all levels in each office who are trained in Mental Health First Aid. Our employees need to know that they can talk openly and freely with trusted, caring colleagues.   

As we reflect on the message of Time to Talk, Amanda Ralph shares her positive experience in the role: 

     1. Why did you want to become a mental health first aider?  

It wasn’t a conscious decision – there had been occasions when I had discussed matters with Joanne Dalton – and when the opportunity arose it made sense. 

 

     2. Why do you think it is important to have the role as mental health first aiders?  

In a fast paced and often stressful environment, it can sometimes help just to know that there is somebody to talk to in a non-judgemental setting. 

 

     3. Would you encourage others to become mental health first aiders? 

I would certainly encourage others to think about it, iif you feel that it would be right for you. 

 

     4. In what ways do you believe being a mental health first aider has been beneficial to you and others?  

It has made me more aware and more understanding, and probably more perceptive. I notice things that now that could be considered “signs” that all is not well with people. Hopefully it has made me a more understanding person, too. 

It is important that mental health remains at the forefront as we return to ‘normality’. There is no right way to talk about mental health; however, these tips can help make sure we are approaching it in a helpful way. 

• Ask questions and listen 
• Think about the time and place 
• Don’t try and fix it 
• Treat them the same 
• Be patient 

However we choose to talk, let’s start a conversation about mental health and bring colleagues together.