Time to Talk Day 2026: Start the Conversation. Brave the big talk this #TimeToTalkDay
On Wednesday, February 5, 2026, join millions across the UK for Time to Talk Day – the nation's biggest mental health conversation.
Why It Matters
One in four people experience mental health problems each year, yet nearly two-thirds of us avoid talking about it. This silence increases isolation and prevents people from getting the support they need. Talking openly breaks down stigma, reduces stress, and reminds us we are not alone.
Getting Your Workplace Involved
With 77% of people experiencing poor mental health symptoms at work, the workplace is a critical environment for these conversations. Here's how to make an impact:
Lunch and Learn Session: Host a 30-minute session to educate staff about mental health. Download free resources from TimeToTalkDay.co.uk to guide discussions.
Walk and Talk: Organise a lunchtime group walk. Side-by-side conversations feel more natural, and physical activity reduces stress hormones.
Coffee and Conversation: Invite your team for refreshments and use conversation-starting questions or a mental health quiz to spark dialogue.
Mental Health Champions: Appoint trained volunteers who can support colleagues confidentially and organise ongoing wellbeing activities.
Create a Quiet Space: Designate a room for breaks with mental health resources and make it clear that using this space is encouraged.
Virtual Hangouts: For remote teams, schedule informal online drop-in sessions throughout the day.
Leadership Participation: Managers should model openness by acknowledging their own stress and creating genuine opportunities for check-ins beyond task updates.
How to Have Better Conversations
Ask open questions like ‘How are you really doing?’ ‘What does that feel like?’
Listen without trying to fix – your presence matters more than solutions
Avoid dismissive comments like ‘It could be worse’
Respect boundaries – not everyone will be ready to talk, and that’s okay
Choose the right moment when you both have time to talk without pressure
Simple Ways to Participate
Text a friend you’ve been thinking about. Ask a colleague how they are doing during a coffee break. Share support on social media using #TimeToTalk. Organise a team activity. Walk with someone while you chat. Every conversation counts.
Beyond One Day
Time to Talk Day is run by Mind and Rethink Mental Illness in partnership with Co-op. While February 5th provides a focused moment to come together, the goal is to create workplaces and communities where mental health conversations happen year-round. Keep resources visible, continue training, and maintain regular check-ins to build lasting psychological safety.
You don’t need to be an expert to make a difference. Start a conversation on February 5, 2026.
Brave the big talk #TimetoTalkDay
For resources time-to-talk-day-2026-employers-pack.pdf