Here’s a musing for your consideration: How often do we ask or answer the question “how are you”? How often do we give an honest answer? How often do we ask, genuinely hoping to hear an honest answer?

Next time you are asked, “How are you?”, try offering just a little more honesty than you might normally.

Next time you ask someone how they are, listen properly to the answer, look for any signs that they are saying they are fine when that might not be the truth.

Let’s ask and answer honestly. And open up some real conversations. It’s #TimeToTalk. Really.

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If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health then please don’t be afraid to reach out and talk to someone. You are not alone and help is available. By opening up and starting the conversation we can move forward together and look to a mentally healthy future. Below are links to a range of fantastic organisations that can provide information, advice and services.

The Samaritans – http://www.samaritans.org

Mind – http://www.mind.org.uk

Young Minds – http://www.youngminds.org.uk

Papyrus (prevention of young suicide) – https://www.papyrus-uk.org

Self Harm UK – https://www.selfharm.co.uk

Time to Change – http://www.time-to-change.org.uk

Rethink Mental Illness – http://www.rethink.org

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention – https://www.afsp.org

Please do not struggle alone.