Talking about your mental health can feel daunting, especially if you’ve been taught to stay strong or keep your struggles private. Yet, sharing how you feel is one of the most important steps towards healing. It allows others to understand what you’re going through and opens the door to support, empathy, and connection. Remember, speaking up doesn’t make you weak; it’s a sign of courage and self-awareness.
“Speaking about your mental health isn’t a sign of weakness, it’s the moment you choose healing over silence, and connection over carrying the weight alone.”
Rebecca Jacks, United Kingdom
The first step is finding the right person to talk to. This might be a trusted friend, family member, colleague, or therapist. Choose someone who listens without judgement and makes you feel safe. You don’t need to have the perfect words — simply describing what you’ve been feeling or noticing changes in your mood, sleep, or motivation is enough. Sometimes saying, “I haven’t been feeling like myself lately” can be the beginning of an honest and healing conversation.
Be clear about what you need from the conversation. Do you want advice, or do you just want to be heard? Setting expectations helps both you and the listener feel more comfortable. It’s okay to say, “I don’t need you to fix anything; I just need someone to listen.” Giving others guidance on how they can best support you increases the chance of a positive and validating exchange.
If you’re struggling to open up, consider writing down your thoughts first. Journalling or sending a message can help you express feelings that might be difficult to say aloud. Professional support is another valuable option — counsellors and therapists are trained to create safe, confidential spaces for exploring emotions, understanding patterns, and developing coping strategies. Reaching out for help isn’t a last resort; it’s a proactive way to take care of your mental wellbeing.
Finally, remember that talking about your mental health isn’t a one-time event — it’s an ongoing process. The more you practice expressing your feelings, the easier it becomes. By opening up, you not only help yourself but also encourage others to do the same. Each honest conversation helps to break stigma, build understanding, and remind us all that it’s okay not to be okay.
