Time to talk - breaking mental health stigma

Twenty organisations from across north east Glasgow have been working together to tackle mental health stigma.

A six-part podcast by Glasgow City Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP)’s  North East Health Improvement Team and East End Community Radio featuring over 30 local voices is now available. The podcasts promote open conversations around mental health and were developed as part of the national Time to Talk Day campaign.

Chloe Heyburn, Health Improvement Senior said: “Using the theme ‘Get Comfortable and Start Talking,’ this years’ Time to Talk campaign encouraged organisations to host activities that opened doors to meaningful dialogue, reducing stigma, and supported mental wellbeing.

“Health Improvement staff adopted a place-based approach, supporting a wide range of organisations to deliver events that encouraged people to talk and connect. Community groups also played a key role in helping smaller or harder-to-reach groups take part.”

Highlights from the campaign included an engaging video produced by the Bluevale Community Club, showing the importance of taking Time to Talk. The video which can be viewed on their Facebook page was shared widely on social media, receiving over 5,000 views.

Another local group, Pavilion Mini’s, helped young children create ‘worry monsters’ – a creative activity that encouraged them to express their feelings in a fun and supportive way.

One local organiser said: “Mental health touches everyone. These events gave people a chance to open up, feel supporte, and realise they’re not alone.”

Chloe continued: “Our collaborative approach to Time to Talk Day shows how creativity, partnership and a shared commitment to wellbeing can spark real change – making mental health conversations a natural and everyday part of life.”

The Time to Talk campaign is led nationally by Mind and Rethink Mental Illness, with local efforts like this playing a vital role in bringing the message home to communities across the UK.

Please tune in, share and help spread the word. Let's keep the conversation going. Listen at Children and Young People - NHSGGC