Talking about our feelings is much easier said than done. It can make us feel vulnerable and it’s not always easy to describe how we're feeling. But it's important to remember that talking about your feelings is not a sign of weakness. It’s part of taking charge of your wellbeing and doing what you can to stay healthy.

Talking can be a way to cope with a problem you’ve been carrying around in your head for a while. Just being listened to can help you feel supported and less alone.

And it works both ways. If you open up, it might encourage others to do the same. We never know who might be struggling so don't forget to check up on your friends, family and colleagues to see how they are coping.

How can talking help?

• it can release built up tension and stress
• discussing how you feel with somebody who’s able to validate your feelings — whether they have personally experienced the same issues or not — will make you feel heard
• it can lead to new solutions you may not have thought of
• you may find out that you're not alone and that many other people share your feelings.

Who can you talk to?

Talking to someone you know can be a great place to start. However, if there is a chance you might not feel comfortable ​speaking about such personal issues with someone in your life, we have various channels of free support you can use, depending on what you're most comfortable with.

• Our 24/7 free helpline is designed so you can speak with one of our trained call handlers in a private and confidential setting, remotely from wherever you are. If you would prefer, and with your permission, someone can also contact us on your behalf.

• We also have a Text HARDHAT to 85258 (UK) or Text HARDHAT to 50808 (ROI) for the same support over text. Chat with a trained volunteer and share what you're comfortable with, whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stressed, anxious, suicidal or are simply struggling with everyday life.

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• If you'd like to speak with likeminded people, our Lighthouse Beacons are safe spaces for people to come together and talk in a confidential and supportive environment. You can share problems or issues you have faced, or are still facing, with people from all walks of life in a non-judgmental setting.