The 2nd of February might not seem like a date to remember to most of us, but for some, it could help them tackle the stigma of suffering from mental health issues. It’s time to observe Time To Talk Day, a day where we encourage positive conversation about mental health challenges and build awareness.
2023 was another challenging year for many with the cost of living crisis dominating the headlines. Between 2019 and 2022 the total number of calls made to NHS 24 (Scotland) for a mental health concern has risen from 20,434 in 2019 to 139,008 in 2022, a sharp increase of 580% in just three years. Check out some more stats below.
The media is already reporting signs that mental health has suffered post-pandemic. At the time of writing this, 8.3 million people have received anti-depressant medication in 2021/22.
In 2022 and 2021 remain steady in England and Wales at 10.5 per 100,000 deaths. Scotland saw a slight increase over 2021 levels but remains at a much higher 13.9 per 100,000 deaths. It is believed that this is due to the higher prevalence of drug abuse as well as the harsher climate in Scotland.
Although men make up 3/4 of suicides we are seeing an increase in women under the age of 24 with it being at its highest level since 1981.
Why am I sharing this? Well, because it is a conversation that we all need to have and that’s what Time to Talk Day is all about. It is about spreading awareness about mental health and the importance of discussing the issue with those around you.
Often when you’re struggling mentally, the last thing that you want to do is talk.
Talking about it is difficult, but it’s important that you do because mental health is a very real issue!
As I have learned myself, the first stage on the road to overcoming is to talk to someone about your emotional and mental state.
You could talk to family, a friend, a partner. However, this might be uncomfortable for some.
If you don’t have a close group of supportive people in your life, then there’s always the Samaritans. They do excellent work and offer someone to talk to, 24 hours a day, who’ll listen to you without judgment.
It also couldn’t be easier to get help, as they offer support over the phone, email, or in person.
Talking about how you’re feeling inside can release pressure, help you feel clearer, and serve as a platform to build off, as you develop a management strategy to improve overall mental health.
If you or a loved one are struggling with depression or anxiety, I recommend that you read my self-care process , and try applying it in your daily life.
It is part of my Self-Care Series of blogs, which contains a lot of information to help manage depression, anxiety, and stress.
I hope you’ll help spread awareness of ‘Time to Talk Day’ and show your support. Here’s how!
Until next time, “Strength for Life”,
Davie.
Davie McConnachie
Davie McConnachie is Scotland’s leading health and wellness coach, multi-award-winning gym owner, motivational speaker and the founder of DMC Fitness, a fitness education facility known as the premier choice for 1-2-1 personal training. He has inspired thousands of people to fall in love with fitness – his true purpose and mission in life.
Diving into the world of fitness and wellness has helped Davie to deal with his own trauma and inner demons. He, overcame many dark times using his own unique methods to continue his cycle of healing.