Thrive LDN mental health conversation starter

A mental health conversation starter tool

When times are tough, it’s important that we look after our own and each other’s wellbeing.

Reaching out to someone we trust is one of the most important things we can do to keep mentally well. Even if this is a partner, a relative, or a friend, it’s important to acknowledge that it’s not always easy for someone to talk about how they’re feeling or share the concerns they may have. This is particularly true for financial worries.

Sometimes these conversations may touch on sensitive and emotional topics, and it can be difficult to know the best way to approach the conversation.

During the pandemic, we worked with community leaders and psychologist and public health specialist, Dr Pamela Nkyi, to create a conversation starter tool to help you to feel confident to engage in conversations with friends, family, neighbours, or those you support in your community or workplace about mental health and wellbeing. As well as importantly outlining the most appropriate help and advice services to signpost to for professional support.

The increased cost-of-living pressures are putting significant pressure on many Londoners. The financial pressure is likely impacting on people’s mental health as a result. We have therefore updated the suggested prompts, questions and useful information about the resources and tools available to support good mental health, wellbeing and financial worries.

Following a SIGNSS framework – Situation, Initiate, Guide, Nudge, and Support and Signpost – this conversation starter tool will help encourage a gentle and supportive conversation.