Our guidance notes help prepare you and offer advice on how best to approach various situations and difficult conversations.

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In case of emergency

In case you or someone you know is in immediate danger, take action swiftly. If it is an emergency dial 999, go to the nearest Accident & Emergency (A&E) department, or call 111 for assistance. Please remember your safety and well-being are paramount.

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How to start a conversation

Initiating a conversation with someone you’re concerned about can present challenges. The approach you take should be influenced by your familiarity with the individual. Perhaps begin by acknowledging any recent changes you’ve observed in them, highlighting moments of silence or despondency. Subtly suggest a chat or a casual meeting or catch up over coffee, giving them the space to open up if they feel comfortable.

 

If you think someone needs help and they don’t want to talk

If they decline or remain unresponsive, reassure them that your door is always open for discussions in the future, expressing your willingness to lend an ear when they are ready to share or seek advice. For further guidance, you might consider training sessions such as those provided by the Zero Suicide Alliance. 

 

How to seek guidance

When it comes to disclosing your own need for assistance, identify a few individuals whom you trust and approach them gradually for a conversation. Request a moment of their time, expressing your challenges and need to seek guidance. Be prepared that some may decline due to personal commitments, so it’s beneficial to have alternative options available.

 

Avoid making hasty assumptions

Addressing situations where someone appears unsupportive of conversation requires a nuanced approach. Avoid hasty assumptions based on non-verbal cues like body language. Sometimes, individuals who seem distant may actually crave communication but struggle to initiate it. Encouraging informal gatherings in your workplace, such as team lunches or designated catch-up periods during meetings, can create an environment where individuals feel more at ease to express themselves more openly.

 

If someone is in a state of crisis

It’s important to offer them the space to share if they feel comfortable. Additionally, providing information about support services like Samaritans, Shout, or their local A&E department can be instrumental in helping them navigate through challenging times.

 

If you are asked about your Open Heart pin

Simply mention that it symbolises your openness to discussing mental health issues. By wearing it, you aim to raise awareness and diminish the stigma surrounding conversations about mental health struggles. When supporting someone with mental health challenges, remember that you cannot solve their problems for them. Instead, offer a compassionate ear and sympathetic care, which can play a crucial role in their journey towards finding their own solutions.

 

How to listen effectively

For effective listening, hone your skills by truly focusing on the speaker’s words and demonstrating your attentiveness. Avoid interrupting and show your interest in their narrative by using non-verbal cues like maintaining eye contact and nodding. Consider asking the person what they need from the conversation to ensure it is helpful for them. Following up with them after a few days shows that you’ve not only listened but also taken their concerns seriously.

 

If you need help

Feeling lost and unsure about where to begin can be overwhelming. To kickstart your journey towards self-improvement, why not explore platforms like Mind’s Side by Side community? This online resource can provide invaluable support and guidance as you navigate through your challenges. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, and taking this first step could lead you to a path of self-discovery and growth.