The Christmas period can be extremely difficult for those living with long-term mental health conditions, people who have been bereaved and those with no social networks. Around this time, we often see campaigns encouraging people to talk and not be afraid of opening up about their mental health struggles.
These campaigns are great and can help someone to find the confidence to speak out, but who is there to listen?
This year, instead of only encouraging people to speak, I encourage people to offer a friendly ear. Let your friends, family, colleagues know that you not only want them to speak about their mental health and wellbeing, but you are ready to be the person to listen to them.
If you know someone might be struggling or feeling lonely, send them a message. "Hi mate, just wanted to wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. I'm going to come round on Tuesday for a cuppa or we can meet in town for a catch up". This is different to "Hi mate, just wanted to wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Be good to catch up sometime".
People with mental health illnesses or those who have been bereaved can often feel like a burden, it's important to take that burden away from them and show them that you want to be there to support them. We want our loved ones to know they can be open, to know that we care and that we are there to listen when they need to talk. We want them to feel hope, to know that although life may feel rubbish right now, we are there to help them through.
Make yourself aware of local mental health groups that can support people, so if someone you know does need some extra support, you can signpost them or support them to make contact. The Samaritans also provide great support which is accessible 24/7, just ring their free number 116 123. The Anthony Seddon Fund has a mental health peer support drop-in that runs over the festive period. Please visit the website to see the opening times.
Lastly, I would encourage everyone to spend twenty minutes to complete the Zero Suicide Alliance training. This will give you the confidence to speak to someone who may be having suicidal thoughts, and ultimately will help to save lives."
Ben James, The Anthony Seddon Fund
https://www.zerosuicidealliance.com/suicide-awareness-training - Zero Suicide Alliance training
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