How do I begin if I don't know how to start?

[Anonymous]

Lately my well I don't know if it's "mental health" but I guess something like it has been worse.

Usually I can keep it to myself and be happy and cheery in front of people but lately it's been hard to put on a smile.

I want to talk to someone but I don't know where to start in the discussion if I did.

[Anonymous]

It's great that you recognize the need to talk to someone and seek support for how you've been feeling. Starting the conversation can be difficult, but there are a few steps you can take to get started:

1. Identify a trusted person: Think about someone in your life who you trust and feel comfortable talking to, such as a friend, family member, or mental health professional.

2. Choose a time and place: Find a time and place where you can speak privately and without interruption. You may want to schedule a time to talk with your chosen person so you both have dedicated time to focus on the conversation.

3. Start with a simple statement: Begin the conversation with a simple statement, such as "I've been feeling down lately and I wanted to talk to someone about it." This can help to open the conversation and make it clear that you want to talk about your feelings.

4. Be honest and open: It's important to be honest and open about how you've been feeling, even if it's difficult to talk about. Share specific examples of how you've been feeling and how it's been affecting your life.

5. Listen and seek support: Remember that the person you're talking to is there to support you. Listen to their feedback and suggestions, and don't be afraid to ask for help or seek professional support if needed.

Remember, it's okay to not have all the answers or to not know exactly how to start the conversation. The important thing is to take the first step and reach out for support when you need it.

[Gingerbread_GB]

Start with family / friend, someone you can trust. Just tell them straight up you don't feel well, and what the issues are.

You don't have to do it like an interview. You can talk to them over dinner, maybe after a drink or two to relax.

[CupcakeTheDestroyer]

You can usually just start from nowhere, by which I mean just talk about your day. Your therapist will know the right things to ask you to prompt you into talking a little deeper about things to help you get to the root of the problem.