Media

Discover how open communication can be a powerful tool during a crisis. In this introduction, Steve Warren explains the importance of starting conversations when you’re struggling, offering practical tips to help you take that first step towards finding support.

Welcome to this edition of Better Lives, where we focus on empowering you to seek the support you need, whether you’re facing a personal crisis or looking to prevent one. After reading this edition you will know about the resources available to you and be encouraged by stories of those who have turned their lives around with a little help.

According to research led by Mind, nearly 8 in 10 Britons surveyed say their mental health is affected by financial worries, with the impact being worse for those with existing mental health problems. Worryingly, nearly a fifth reported that financial worries are reducing the number of conversations they have about mental health. Almost half of respondents said that their reason for fewer conversations is that they don’t want to burden others. During a crisis, one of the most powerful tools we have is communication. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed and isolated, but starting a conversation can be a crucial first step toward healing and resolution. Despite the common belief that seeking help is a sign of weakness, it is actually a profound act of courage.

When things start to go wrong and we find ourselves in a crisis, it can feel natural to withdraw and believe we have to solve the problem on our own. However, this usually leads to increased stress and feelings of isolation. Engaging in open conversations alleviates these feelings and also allows us to share our struggles and reveal sources of support we may not have considered.

The stigma surrounding asking for help is still a major barrier for many who need support. While seeking help does involve bringing other people into the conversation, it demonstrates great self-awareness and a desire for positive change. Being proactive in seeking support during times of distress can not only alleviate your own struggles but also help normalise these conversations and encourage others to reach out as well.

At the MCF, we are dedicated to fostering a community that promotes open communication about crises. We endeavour to listen actively and offer support in any way we can. We believe in the transformative power of speaking up and the profound impact of being heard.

Through our Advice, Support and Enquiries team, we aim to create safe and judgement-free spaces for open conversations, provide resources, and promote a culture where seeking help is celebrated as a sign of strength.

We know that reaching out can seem daunting, so we have some practical steps you can take to feel empowered to open up:

1. Acknowledge the problem: Accept that there is an issue that needs addressing; denial can often delay recovery and exacerbate the problem.
2. Choose the right person to talk to: Whether this is a trusted friend or family member, your Lodge Almoner, local PGA, or one of our Enquiry Officers, the right person will listen without judgement and offer constructive support.
3. Prepare your thoughts: This doesn’t mean you need to have a script, but it can help to have a clear idea of what you want to say beforehand to reduce any anxiety.
4. Be honest and open: Authenticity is important. Being truthful and vulnerable can not only help you receive the help you need but also build deeper relationships with those around you.
5. Ask for specific help: Only you can know how this crisis is affecting you, so make sure to identify specific ways others can support you, even if this simply means being a listening ear.

Together, we can break the silence and support each other through life’s challenges.

Steve Warren
Enquiries Team Leader,
Designated Safeguarding Officer