Time to Talk Day was an event to get the nation talking about mental health, and took place on Thursday February 4th.

Buckinghamshire Mind organised a local Bucks Big Chat on the day that aimed to bring people together to talk about mental health, encourage people to talk with friends, family or colleagues about any challenges they are facing, and to challenge the myths and stigma that still exists around mental health.

Together, we can all ensure that mental health is seen in the same light as physical health. That is, something you would automatically think to seek help for when you are unwell.

Last year, Philippa Batting, Managing Director of Buckinghamshire Business First, wrote about mental health in her regular column in the Bucks Free Press. She wrote:

“Lots of people have lived with serious mental health challenges for a long time. Some employers may not even realise that members of their staff have a mental health condition. Ask yourself if you think your employees would feel comfortable approaching you with a mental health-related issue. If not, think what you can do to change that.

“Have you considered appointing a mental health ‘workplace champion’ to take the lead on initiatives, or supporting a member of staff to train as a mental health first aider? Talk with employees to understand their challenges and worries, and reassure them that you or a designated colleague are there for them if they want to talk.”

For more information on Time to Talk Day, visit the Buckinghamshire Mind website.

Visit Lindengate as part of your regular exercise routine

By Lindengate Mental Health Charity

"It is important that you look after yourself during these challenging times, from getting enough sleep and keeping stress levels down to eating well and exercising outside.

"We are open Mondays 9am–12 noon, and Tuesdays, Fridays, Saturdays from 1pm–3pm for free drop-ins, giving you time and space to “be” in a calm, safe environment, whilst relaxing in beautiful natural surroundings. We have plenty of sheltered areas dotted about our 5-acre site and being amongst nature boosts your health and wellbeing.

"Regular exercise has been proven to fight fatigue and boost energy levels, so wrap up warm and visit Lindengate, where you will be able to take time for yourself in our 5-acre therapeutic gardens and wildlife haven. 

"Why not bring someone from your household or support bubble, or meet a friend safely for your daily exercise, which can improve your mental wellbeing.

"Whether you are a key worker or home schooling, we have space for you to bring supervised children and quiet areas for those seeking peace and a safe space.

"Lindengate is a well-known mental health charity, near Wendover. Whilst we are currently unable to keep all our services open, our free drop-in Rest and Reflect sessions, which have been running since June 2020 and welcomed over 1,500 people, are open to anyone who may be struggling with their wellbeing or just wants a safe space to enjoy nature.

"Take a look at our website for full details and other ways that you can look after your wellbeing. Visit www.lindengate.org.uk."

Workplace Wellbeing homepage

Buckinghamshire Business First has a dedicated Workplace Wellbeing section on our website where you will find advice, information and resources to support yourself and your colleagues with their mental health and wellbeing.