Islanders encouraged to take time to talk

Islanders are being encouraged to take time to talk in a bid to improve their and other's mental health.

The team from charity Guernsey Mind is hosting information stands at Coop shops in St Sampson and St Martin on Thursday, which is national Time to Talk Day.

Amanda Hibbs, from the charity, said: "Speaking openly and honestly can be the first step towards better mental health."

She said there were numerous ways to start a conversation, like sharing time over a coffee or chatting on the phone, and listening was just as important as talking.

Mrs Hibbs said: "Even small gestures can have a substantial impact - offering a cup of tea and a chat can turn a bad day into a better one for a friend or a colleague."

Time to Talk Day is aimed at encouraging people to be more open about mental health, start conversations and listen in a bid to change lives for the better.

Trina le Noury said she had volunteered with Guernsey Mind to "give back" after her own experience being supported by the charity.

Ms le Noury said she felt the island was "moving in the right direction", but there was still a stigma around mental health discussions.

She said: "Some people ...are curious about why we're here, and other people are quite content to tell you about.. some of the struggles they're going through.

"It's been really lovely, everyone's got a smile, and everyone's said hello."

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