By Mindy Laraoco
This year on October 10, 2026, is World Mental Health Day and with this, comes an opportunity for us to check in with each other and ourselves about mental health. Discussions about how we’re doing, whether we’re doing well, struggling, or anything in between, can provide validation, support, and a sense of camaraderie. However, sometimes it can be hard knowing how to approach others, even if our intentions are to make sure they are okay.
So how can we start conversations about mental health? Here are some tips:
➻ Start Anywhere
Beginning a conversation with the intention to check in with someone about their mental health does not mean that you have to dive right into asking deep questions. It can be helpful to think that the beginning of those conversations are akin to just starting a conversation in general. Opening a conversation with “How’s it going?” can be a great starting point to check in with someone. Here are some other conversation helpers that can keep a conversation flowing:
- It’s been a while since we’ve seen each other, how have things been on your end?
- Anything exciting or interesting happen since we’ve last seen each other?
- What have you been up to lately?
You could also consider opening up about some of your personal struggles that you’re comfortable sharing in order to signal that you’re also open to listening. An important part of these conversations is letting the other person know that you’re there to listen if needed.
If you are wanting to start a conversation with someone that you know is struggling, it might be helpful to have a more direct conversation start such as:
- I’ve noticed that you’ve been acting differently lately, is something going on that you’d like to talk about?
- I’ve been worried about you and I want to be able to provide support, what can I do?
- If you’re not comfortable talking with me, is there someone else that you can turn to?
➻ Be Open
Depending on the situation or person that you are wanting to talk with, different approaches can be used. However, whether or not a conversation is had, letting others know that you are a safe person to speak to and are willing to provide support if needed can help someone else feel a lot less lonely. This can be a key factor in providing support. Checking in with someone does not always need to result in a conversation being had, but reminding them that there is the space to have one, if needed. Meeting a loved one where they are comfortable, can be a powerful tool to help provide support.
➻ Take Moments to Check In
Taking moments throughout the week to check in with each other can be a great way to support one another and start conversations about mental health. Using some of the conversation starters listed above, or even your own that you create, can be helpful in keeping up with one another’s experiences and feelings. This can also help check ins, and therefore conversations about mental health, become more regular!
Conversations about mental health can feel daunting, but with time and effort can also become regular check in points. They can provide support, validation, and community with others and allow us to feel less alone. This World Mental Health Day, consider having these conversations to strengthen your relationships with those around you.
