Time To Talk Day: Breaking Mental Health Stigma in the Workplace

Empowering workplaces and communities to open up about mental health, Time To Talk Day encourages honest conversations that break down stigma and foster lasting support.

Why Time To Talk Day Matters for HR Leaders

Time To Talk Day is a national initiative that encourages open conversations about mental health. For HR leaders, it’s a reminder that mental health support is essential—not optional.

When employees feel comfortable talking about mental health, it reduces stigma, improves wellbeing, and supports long-term retention. Open dialogue is not just good practice—it’s a strategic advantage for workplace wellbeing.

The Power of Open Conversations

How Talking Helps Employees

Everyday conversations about mental health can:

• Reduce stigma and encourage early intervention
• Help employees feel seen and supported
• Foster a culture of trust and belonging

When people feel safe to speak up, they’re more likely to seek help before issues escalate—protecting both individual wellbeing and organisational performance.

The Impact of Mental Health Stigma

Why Stigma Stops People Seeking Help

Stigma remains one of the biggest barriers to mental health support. Misconceptions and fear of judgement often prevent employees from disclosing their struggles, leading to worsening symptoms and reduced productivity.  

Normalising mental health conversations is key to breaking these barriers. By creating an environment where people feel safe to ask for help, employers can challenge stereotypes and support equal access to care.

Building a Culture of Openness for Workplace Mental Health

Practical Steps for Employers

HR leaders and managers can take action by:

• Training managers to recognise signs of mental distress
• Promoting mental health awareness days like Time To Talk Day
• Offering mental health first aid and confidential support services
• Providing flexible working options and clear signposting to resources

Explore our Mental Health Services to learn how we support employees with clinically-led care.

Leveraging Digital Healthcare Solutions

How Doctor Care Anywhere Supports Mental Wellbeing

Digital healthcare platforms make mental health support accessible and confidential. With 24/7 online GP appointments and mental health practitioners, employees can get help quickly and conveniently.

Our clinicians can also signpost patients to HelloSelf for digital therapy, ensuring seamless access to specialist mental health support when needed. This integrated approach empowers employees to take control of their mental wellbeing with trusted, clinically-led care.

Learn more about our Digital Healthcare Benefits and how we connect employees to expert mental health therapy through HelloSelf. 

How Employees Can Help

Supporting mental health isn’t just an employer responsibility—individuals play a role too. Employees can:

• Check in on colleagues
• Listen without judgement
• Share experiences when comfortable

Together, these actions create workplaces where mental health conversations are normal and stigma-free.

Take Action This Time To Talk Day

Make mental health a priority in your organisation. Start by encouraging open conversations and providing easy access to support.