Talking about our deepest thoughts and feelings doesn’t come naturally to most of us. We often skirt the truth or make things sound all Zen; but the truth is a lot of us have heavy thoughts that we never share. Spark The Conversation, an NGW-sponsored mental health initiative in the cannabis space, intends to create a space where folks feel they can open up and learn how to express all their emotions. According to Banyan Mental Health, talking about feelings and emotions can make us feel less alone and can reduce tension. Having these types of conversations normalizes the topic of mental health and can help create a safe space for those struggling. For many, even a simple conversation about our feelings and mindstate can relieve stress and make us feel less alone! Alia Reichert of Spark the Conversation shares some pointers on how and why we should talk to others about mental health.
Q – How can we start this complicated and personal conversation with ourselves and others?
Reichert – Talking about feelings and thoughts can be scary. Start by writing them down in a journal, record what you want to say on your phone, or even in front of a mirror for practice. Once you’re ready to share these emotions, grab a friend you trust and open up a conversation about how you’re feeling. Sparking the conversation will help alleviate stress for you and may even create a space for your friend to open up as well.
Q – How should we have this conversation with someone else?
Reichert – There will never be a perfect time and that’s ok. Start by stating a change that you’ve noticed about your friend or family member. Here’s an example: “I’ve noticed you haven’t been playing your music lately, how are you? You don’t seem like yourself.” Sometimes a simple observation is all you need to get a productive conversation going.
Q – If I talk about mental health or dark thoughts will it cause that person to act out or harm themselves?
Reichert – Reaching out to someone to spark a conversation can help to prevent incidents of self harm. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, asking someone directly if they are planning on harming themselves can help to identify if they are a suicide risk and can give you a better idea on the level of assistance your loved one or friend may need.
Q – What is the most important thing to remember when talking to others about their mental health?
Reichert – The most important things are the ability to listen, to not interrupt, to not diagnose (unless you are a medical professional), and not judge the person or the feelings being shared.
Q – What if I’ve talked and still feel like harming myself or my loved ones are threatening self-harm after talking?
Reichert – If you feel friends, family members, or yourself are a risk, immediate action should be taken by dialing 911 and requesting a crisis intervention officer or mobile crisis team. In non-immediate situations, you can text, call or chat the National Suicide Hotline at their updated three digit dialing code 988.
Talking about our personal thoughts and feelings is hard – the fear of being judged or labeled is real. These stigmas prevent us from speaking our truths and keep us silent. It is imperative that we rewrite the narrative and allow ourselves the ability to discuss our feelings and emotions without fear. We all have thoughts that can get us down but the more we share with others, the more we realize we are not alone. Be well, be open to listen, be supportive, and Spark the Conversation.