How workplaces can create a listening hour this Time to Talk day
31 Jan 2025

Time to Talk Day, held annually on the first Thursday of February, is the UK’s biggest mental health conversation.
The day encourages open discussions about mental health in workplaces, schools, and communities.
And the aim is simple: to break the silence, challenge stigma, and create supportive environments where people feel comfortable talking about their mental well-being.
In the workplace, these conversations are more important than ever.
A culture of openness around mental health can lead to reduced absenteeism, higher employee engagement, and increased productivity.
Studies show that employees who feel supported with their mental well-being are more likely to stay in their roles and contribute positively to their organisations.
Time to Talk Day also provides a structured opportunity for businesses to take action - whether through informal chats over coffee, team check-ins, or company-wide initiatives.
Encouraging these discussions helps normalise mental health conversations, ensuring that employees feel valued and understood.
Time to Talk Day emphasises the power of conversations in promoting mental health.
From a neuroscience perspective, active listening engages the prefrontal cortex, improving empathy and emotional regulation.
Feeling heard activates the brain's reward system, releasing dopamine and fostering trust, connection, and overall wellbeing.
How to Promote It:
Introduce a “Listening Hour”: Dedicate an hour during Time to Talk Day (or even weekly!) where managers are available exclusively to listen—no agendas, no interruptions, just genuine conversations.
Train in Active Listening: Offer a short workshop or share resources on techniques like reflective listening and open-ended questioning to enhance connection during conversations.
Pair Employees for Chats: Create a conversation buddy system to encourage informal, supportive talks between peers. Hybrid teams can use virtual breakout rooms to replicate the experience.
Extra Motivation:
Follow up these conversations by celebrating insights and reflections—this could be a simple thank-you email or a shared team takeaway that highlights the value of talking and listening.
Bonus Idea:
Combine this with other activities, like hosting a gratitude or compliment circle after Listening Hour, to reinforce positive interactions and build a stronger team culture.
This neuroscience-backed hack not only supports mental health but also fosters a deeper sense of community and connection in the workplace.