Who can remember the Bob Hoskins adverts for BT? They were quite iconic at the time (Mid 90's maybe?) and the key strap line was 'It's good to talk'.
Well, that's definitely just as important today as it was then...if not more so! With lockdown limiting the amount of face to face conversation we are able to enjoy and text, What's App and Messenger making it much more convenient to ping a quick message, the lack of 'chat' is having a detrimental impact on our health.
There is research to support that talking to a friend, colleague or family member can really help to ease your stresses and boost your happiness. These key relationships provide support and help you celebrate the good times and provide support during hard times.
Having a good old chin wag can also have a positive impact on other areas of your health and wellbeing:
Improves self confidence, self worth & self love
One compliment or word of encouragement from a friend can really have a powerful impact.
Avoid feelings of loneliness
Chatting can reduce the stress of feeling isolated and provide us with a much needed distraction.
Support
A good conversation and sharing your feelings can help you cope with traumas such as serious illness, divorce, job loss or the passing of a loved one.
Motivation
When speaking to a friend or family member it may encourage you to change or avoid unhealthy lifestyle habits or support you with a personal goal.
There are many people who either don't have key people they can reach out to or for whatever reason, they chose not to. Over time this lack of connection and expression of feelings can start to have a negative impact both physically and emotionally.
If you are feeling lonely or don't feel comfortable chatting with someone you know about your feelings you may find it easier to open up to someone outside of your social circle. Choosing to speak to a counselor or psychotherapist will give you a safe space to talk without judgement. The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy website has a list of all registered therapists in the UK. There are lots to choose from and it's a very personal choice, Challenge Wellbeing can personally recommend Sharon from The Bridge Psychotherapy but why not have a look for yourself.
There is also so much amazing work carried out by charities such asMind,Young Minds,Mental Health UK andAge UK (to name a few) who can offer vital support.
Maybe you have a little extra time than usual this weekend so why not pick up the phone and call or facetime one of your friends or family members...or even better, arrange to meet them for a socially distanced walk.
We're pretty sure you won't regret it!