#TimetoTalkDay Post

A personal message on #TimetoTalkDay2020-

We are in 2020 yet mental health still has a stigma attached to it. Some people find this topic awkward, but it doesn’t have to be that way.

Time to talk day was designed to help break stigmas and we need to work together to achieve this.

We can be supportive in many ways and even subtle things like smiling when walking past someone can make a real difference in a person’s day. You can never fully understand what a person is going through and many factors can influence a person’s day. It is totally normal to have some ‘off’ days and wanting some time off.

We can truly change lives by doing small acts of kindness, talking and listening. It costs nothing !!

Over the last few weeks I have continued to notice abuse increase on various social media platforms. Everyone is entitled to their own opinions and no one has the right to tell someone if their opinion is the correct one. Life is too short, and we shouldn’t have to spend our time defending our actions and beliefs. Yes scrutinise opinions respectfully but never use language that is degrading,humiliating and causes offence.

On time to talk day I would like to encourage everyone to take a much more respectful approach and respect people’s views and opinions and focus on wellbeing.

I don’t apologize for who I am and what I do, and I will always continue to do what I feel is appropriate. Politics can be divisive and an emotional topic, but it does not mean I will tolerate any abusive, inflammatory or derogatory language and I will continue to call this out whenever I see it. Social media can become a very toxic platform and I urge restraint.

Moreover, I do have a no-nonsense approach in life, I like action and don’t do lip service. If have a target I will give it my 100% to achieve this. Some people applaud this other don’t. I don’t take toxic and negative behaviour and only do things which I feel are positive and beneficial to myself. With that in mind I started 2020 with this motto- “treat me nicely or leave me alone.”

Saying that I try and keep my family away from my political activities as I do not want them to face any abuse or witness the things I do. But if there is one thing, I do not tolerate is anyone treating disrespectfully.