Content warning: This article mentions suicide. Sometimes the simplest of things can have the biggest effect. And sometimes it’s not the things itself, but what it comes with. Having a cup of tea is synonymous with taking a break and, most importantly, with talking. There is a reason that the #talkingsaveslives hashtag has been so prominent in recent times. With suicide being the biggest killer of men between 20-49 in England and Wales and the staggering statistic that 1 in 15 people having made a suicide attempt in their life, it is no wonder that mental health institutions are pushing for conversation. Suffering in silence can cost lives, and it really doesn’t have to be that way. In encouraging everyone to check in with each other, and opening the conversation around mental health, we can tackle these problems at earlier stages, before it gets to breaking point. But it doesn’t have to be that serious. Talking about mental health can be a simple as chatting about your day, sharing worries or anxieties, talking about the stuff that makes you feel good! A major issue with the stigma surrounding mental health is that it creates a divide between the “mentally unwell” and “the rest of us”. In reality, we ALL have mental health. Mental health is just like physical health, it can be good or bad, but it is always there. And just like going for a run can make you physically tired, worrying about anything (exams, work, relationships...) can make you mentally tired. That’s why it’s important to treat mental health like physical health, and talk about it when we need to. And just like physical health there are some problems that might be more difficult or sensitive to talk about, but there is always someone you can go to, whether it’s a health professional, a helpline or a friend. There are lots of movements pushing for conversation, for example the Samaritans Small Talk Saves Lives campaign, and they serve as a great reminder of the power of talking. And we recommend starting small, with a cup of tea and a chat with a friend or colleague. You never know what difference it might make, for you or them. If you need help with your mental health you can find help here or call 999 (emergency service), 111 (urgent medical advice) or the Samaritans on 166 123 (UK and ROI). Silent Faces return to VAULT Festival from 27 Feb - 3 March with A Clown Show About Rain, a dazzling physical comedy about the complexities of understanding and dealing with mental health.
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