IT'S time to talk.

That's the message from Bradford District and Craven Health and Care Partnership in support of a national campaign encouraging people to have conversations about mental health.

As Time to Talk Day, next Thursday (February 1), approaches, people are urged to 'open up' about any difficult feelings.

And advice is being offered on how to provide a listening ear.

The partnership's top tips for listening include:

* Take a walk with someone if it’s difficult to sit down and speak face to face

* Show that you’re listening by giving someone your full attention and using body language, such as nodding

* Accept uncomfortable emotions and don't label them as good or bad

* Clarify what people are saying, especially if it’s via a text message

* Ask what kind of support people are looking for, for example just listening or more practical advice

* Look after yourself so you have the energy and time to support others

Professionals from the partnership contributed to a series of videos, which can be viewed at healthyminds.services/time-to-talk

Also, a resource pack produced by Mind in Bradford can be downloaded and shared.

Lindsay Coleman, a service co-ordinator at Mind in Bradford, says: "It's important to give empathetic responses when people are talking about how they are feeling, and not to interrupt.

"When people have told you what they’re going through, it’s really important to acknowledge that they have been through a tough time and to validate that experience for them."

Naomi Holdsworth, of NHS Talking Therapies in Bradford, says: "Conversations about mental health can make a positive difference to someone’s life. We should speak about it every day, not just on one particular day. However, Time to Talk Day gives us that opportunity to put a real focus on mental health and encourage people to feel comfortable talking about it."

For more details and advice, plus a directory of mental health services across Bradford District and Craven, visit healthyminds.services

Support services include Guide-Line, which can be contacted on 08001 884 884, or alternatively chat online at mindinbradford.org.uk/chat

For urgent mental health support, contact First Response on 0800 952 1181.

Bradford District and Craven Talking Therapies is a free confidential NHS service for people aged 16 and over who are registered with a GP in Bradford, Airedale, Wharfedale or Craven. Visit bdctalkingtherapies.nhs.uk, call 01274 221234 between 9am and 5pm or email talkingtherapiesadmin@bdct.nhs.uk