How to Start a Conversation about Mental Health

Opening up about mental health issues is a courageous but difficult thing to do. You might feel guilty, or not know how to initiate the conversation. You could be worried about the reaction. These are all natural emotions to go through, as it's a big step to take.

"You might feel guilty, or not know 

how to initiate the conversation"

Have a look at some of our advice when it comes to starting this conversation:

1) Preparation 

This conversation is probably going to get emotional; not just for you but for the recipient as well. Be prepared for the fact that both parties will go through a range of feelings. The relief of admitting to someone you have a mental health problem is extremely cathartic. You might laugh, you might cry – this is completely normal. Just be mindful you're bound to go through a roller coaster of emotions. 

2) Write 

Before having this conversation, writing down your feelings can help clarify in your own mind what you want to say. You can use this as a prompt whilst you are talking, or as a way to practice expressing your emotions – even if it's just for yourself.

"use this as a prompt (...) or as a way to practice expressing your emotions" 

Telling someone about what you're going through can be stressful. If you think having something written down will help you, then do it.

3) Choose the Right Time

There may never seem like a ‘right time’ to have this conversation, but there are better times than others. Right before your partner or parents leave for work, for example, is not ideal. You want to be able to take the time to explain your problems fully and for them to be open and undistracted.

4) The Next Step

Having this initial conversation is daunting, but these first steps can help change your life. If you've spoken with friends or family, you might now want to find a professional. If you've spoken to your GP, ask to be referred to a specialist. At The Lions Barber Collective, we've made it our mission to help listen and direct those in need of assistance – see our website and Facebook for more details. 

Remember this is a process and it's going to take time. By having that first conversation, you're putting yourself on the right path.

By Kimberley Parker 

Five People You Can Talk to About Depression

Suffering from depression can be an incredibly isolating and lonely experience.  Even in a society where mental health is somewhat understood and less stigmatized than in the past, it can still be difficult to open up for fear of judgment.Then there’s the question of who to talk to. Discussing your depression with anyone is hard, but starting with one person can make all the difference:

1) Your Family

It may seem tough to talk to your family about your depression, but remember these people love and support you unconditionally. In fact they may already sense you’re going through something, so it can be a relief for them to finally be able to help you. 

"It can be a relief for them to finally help you"

Talk to parents, siblings, cousins; grandparents even – whomever you feel comfortable with. Confiding in your family can actually have a hugely positive effect on your relationship, as it allows them to understand you and your life better. 

2) Friends 

They always say your friends are the family you choose, so it makes sense you feel comfortable talking to them about your depression. Having a familiar face who knows you well creates a safe space for this type of conversation. Like your family, they may already have an idea that you’re having a difficult time. Even just having them listen can be a great relief.  

3) Online Communities

There are many organizations that are dedicated to helping suffers of depression and mental health in general. There are phone lines, live chats, chat rooms and forums – these can be a great resource if you don’t feel ready to talk to someone face-to-face. A few examples include Samaritans , Mind, Sane  and Rethink Mental Illness . Mind even operates drop in centers around the country – check out their website for more details.

4) Your GP/ NHS

If you have a good relationship with your GP they’re a great person to discuss any mental health problems with – depression included.  They also have the ability to refer you to other specialists.

"The NHS offers a ton of different services related to mental health"

If you don’t feel comfortable for whatever reason, then you can always talk to another GP in the practice. The NHS also offers a ton of different services related to mental health on their website, which links you to the facilities available in your area.

5) Your Barber (yes, that’s right!)

At The Lions Barber Collective, we believe being a person’s barber puts us in a unique position to help. Sometimes you just don’t feel comfortable telling people close to you about your depression, which is completely understandable. We wanted there to be another option.

"What we can do is listen, discuss and advise in a comfortable space"

 By implementing a training program (#BarberTalk) we want to create the opportunity to discuss mental health problems with your barber.  We’re not claiming to be psychologists, but what we can do is listen, discuss and advise in a comfortable space. No judgment, no pressure. See our website for more details.

If you’re worried about how to broach the subject of depression, then check out next week’s blog which gives some advice on the matter. 

By Kimberley Parker