10 October 2025

Opening the Conversation on World Mental Health Day

World Mental Health Day is a vital opportunity for us to come together, talk openly about mental health, and show everyone that it truly matters.

We know that talking can be incredibly good for your mental health. It can reduce stress, make you feel less alone, and help you gain perspective. But starting that conversation—whether you're opening up about your feelings or checking in on a loved one—is often the hardest part.

At Gateway Credit Union, we understand the connection between financial well-being and mental health. Taking control of your finances is one big step toward peace of mind, and we're here to help with that. But talking is also key.

Here are a few simple, helpful tips from our community to yours, designed to make those conversations a little easier.

Tips for Talking About Your Mental Health

Opening up to someone takes courage. Here's how you can make the experience feel more supportive:

Choose Someone You Trust: Think about who you feel safest with—a friend, a family member, a colleague, or maybe a professional on a support helpline. Sometimes, it helps to briefly consider the pros and cons of sharing with a specific person before you do it.
Find the Right Place: The environment matters. Choose a space where you feel comfortable and are unlikely to be disturbed. For some, a quiet, private room works best. For others, talking while doing a non-intrusive activity, like going for a walk, can feel less intense.
Prepare for Their Reaction: While you hope for a positive response, be ready for the possibility that they may not react the way you expect. They might be worried, confused, or not fully understand at first. If this happens, try to give them time to process it. You could offer them some reliable information to read. Most importantly, remember to be kind to yourself and practice self-care afterward.

Tips for Talking to Someone About Their Mental Health

If you're worried about a friend or loved one, simply being a good listener can be a powerful act of support.

Create a Good Space Without Distractions: Find a time and place where you can give them your full, undivided attention. Turning your phone off or putting it on silent is a great way to signal that they are your priority.
Listen and Ask Open Questions: Active listening is one of the most valuable things you can offer. Face them, make eye contact, and avoid interrupting. Asking relevant, clarifying questions shows that you're engaged and trying to understand their experience—just be careful not to change the subject away from how they are feeling.
Ask How You Can Help: Instead of telling them what they should do, ask them directly: "How can I help right now?" or "What kind of support would you like?" They may want help with a practical task like making an appointment, a distraction like just chatting about your life, or simply for you to keep checking in.

This World Mental Health Day, let's commit to talking, listening, and supporting each other.

At Gateway Credit Union, we're dedicated to helping you achieve financial well-being, which is a key component of your overall health. If you are struggling with financial worries, please know that we are here to offer fair, ethical, and supportive financial services.

Are you ready to start a conversation about your mental, or financial health today?