1st February is national Time to Talk Day. The day is about creating supportive communities by having conversations with family, friends and colleagues about mental health.
Mind charity say: "1 in 4 of us will experience a mental health problem in any given year. It's not always easy to say how you really feel. But talking openly and honestly can be the first step towards better mental health."
By talking, we can support ourselves and others and feel encouraged to seek help when we need it. Small conversations can make a big difference in opening up and seeking necessary support.
Locally, Mind provide wellbeing support every Friday in Ripon Library. Individual, confidential appointments can be made with Wellbeing Coordinator Kirsty by contacting 07305 049296 or kirsty@mindinharrogate.org.uk.
Kirsty can help with general tips on maintaining and improving your wellbeing, signposting to other helpful services and social groups and activities, including the Mind befriending and counselling services.
Mind also run 'Me Time' on Thursday evenings with Ripon YMCA, aimed at young people aged 15-25. Each month young people are invited to take part in a different approach to improve and maintain emotional wellbeing and encouraged to prioritise self-care. For more information contact Kirsty or Eden at Ripon YMCA at youth@riponymca.org.
For older people, there are supportive groups offering a warm welcome, a place to meet with friends and enjoy a bite to eat, with an opportunity to relax or take part in activities. Groups include Young at Heart on Tuesdays at AllHallowgate Church Hall and The Friendship Club at St Wilfrid’s Community Centre on Thursdays, where you can chat with someone who can point you in the right direction to help with anything you need to get sorted.
Whatever your age, if you feel you might be struggling with life, ‘Renew Ripon’ at Holy Trinity is a quiet space where it is OK not to be OK. You can pop in any time Mondays 11.30 am - 1 .30 pm and Tuesdays 6.30 pm - 8.30 pm. to enjoy a cuppa, a chat, try mindful or reflective activities, or just be. The team are caring, supportive and willing to listen.
The Wellness Gateway’s Men's Social Group is a place for over 18’s to talk, have a brew or just listen. The Group meets Tuesday evenings at the Salvation Army Outreach Centre, with self-help techniques and signposting available if needed.
Volunteering is a wonderful way to make new friends, build confidence and improve your wellbeing. Our ‘Power of 10’ scheme aims to inspire young people in Ripon to seek out opportunities they may not usually explore and recognises their contribution with awards and rewards.
The Young People’s Volunteering Fair at Ripon library on 12th February, 12.30 - 3pm is for anyone aged 14 – 18 to find out more about fantastic local opportunities to get involved.
You can find details of all these local activities and many more in our Where To Turn Directory.
(photo credit Centre for Ageing Better)
