Because starting the conversation could save a life.
Talking about mental health can feel awkward, intimidating, or even scary. Whether you’re opening up about your own experience or trying to support someone else, it’s hard to know what to say—or how it’ll be received. But here’s the truth: these conversations matter more than we can imagine.
We don’t have to be experts. We just need to be human—with open hearts, safe spaces, and a willingness to show up.
Why It’s So Hard to Talk About Mental Health
There’s a reason this stuff is tough to bring up. Stigma runs deep. Many of us were taught to “stay strong” or “keep it to ourselves.” Others worry about judgment, rejection, or being seen as a burden. And sometimes, it’s just hard to find the words when everything inside feels messy.
Charissa and I have both been on all sides of this—needing to speak up but not knowing how, and wanting to help but being afraid to say the wrong thing. We’ve had clumsy conversations and awkward silences. But we’ve also had powerful, healing moments that came from just trying.
Because connection isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being real.
Tips for Opening Up About Your Own Mental Health
If you’re ready to talk about your own experience, start here:
🟣 Choose the right person – Someone you trust. Someone who listens without judgment. Someone who makes you feel safe.
🟣 Pick a comfortable setting – Quiet. Private. Unrushed. Somewhere you feel grounded.
🟣 Use “I” statements – Like “I’ve been feeling really anxious lately” or “I’m struggling, and I don’t want to go through this alone.”
🟣 Be honest, not perfect – You don’t need to have it all figured out. It’s okay to say, “I don’t know exactly what I need, but I just wanted to let you know where I’m at.”
🟣 Set boundaries if needed – Not every question deserves an answer. You get to choose how much you share.
Tips for Supporting Someone Else
If someone opens up to you, it’s a big deal. Honor their trust with care and compassion:
💙 Listen more than you speak – You don’t need to “fix” it. Just be present.
💙 Believe them – Even if you don’t understand it fully. Trust that their pain is real.
💙 Ask how you can help – Try “What do you need right now?” or “Would it help to talk more about this, or would distraction feel better?”
💙 Avoid clichés – Skip the “just think positive” and “it could be worse.” Stick with validation, like “That sounds really hard—I’m so glad you told me.”
💙 Follow up – Check in. Stay connected. Let them know you care even after the first conversation.
What If I Mess It Up?
You might. We all have. What matters is that you try—and that if you get it wrong, you take accountability and keep showing up. Vulnerability isn’t neat or tidy. But it’s worth it.
Charissa and I have learned that even messy conversations can lead to deep healing when met with care. The simple act of showing up with love makes a bigger impact than you might ever realize.
Let’s Talk About It
What has helped you talk about mental health—either with someone else or for yourself?
Have you had a conversation that changed the way you view mental health?
Share your thoughts in the comments or in the Let’s Heal Together Discord. These stories matter. Yours included.