I Don't Know What to Say; Learning the Language of Mental Health

Description

Mental health is not the privilege of a select few—it is the birthright of us all. Yet mental illness remains one of the most pressing health crises of our time, with impacts that ripple through our homes, workplaces, schools, and communities.

Too often, conversations about mental illness stall before they start. Fear of saying the wrong thing keeps many silent—when words could instead offer connection, comfort, and healing.

This interactive session equips participants with simple, practical methods to replace silence with support. You will learn how to use language that conveys empathy, reduces stigma, and fosters hope—helping others move from mental hellness to mental wellness.

Agenda

1. Welcome & Setting the Stage

• Introduction & objectives
• Establishing a safe, supportive learning environment

2. Framing the Crisis

• Why conversations about mental illness stall
• Ripple effects across homes, schools, workplaces, and communities

3. Storytelling: From Hellness to Wellness

• David’s personal journey through despair and recovery
• The role of connection and language in healing

4. The Power of Words

• How words can harm or heal
• The fear of “saying the wrong thing”
• Common myths and mistakes to avoid

5. Interactive Exercise: Silence vs. Support

• Role-play and scenario practice in small groups
• Reflection: how language choices shape outcomes
• Group debrief and shared insights

6. A Simple Framework for Connection

• Introduction to the R-U-E method (Recognition, Understanding, Expression)
• Practical steps to apply in everyday conversations

7. Takeaways & Resources

• Key lessons to remember
• Distribution of resource sheet (national associations & supports)

8. Closing & Q&A

• Final reflections from David
• Open space for participant questions
• Encouragement to carry the message forward

Bio of the Facilitator

David Woods Bartley

David Woods Bartley is a globally recognized mental health advocate who has delivered over 800 presentations across four continents. A two-time TEDx speaker and Steinberg Institute Mental Health Champion, David shares his journey from mental "hellness" to mental wellness, inspiring diverse audiences to transform their approach to mental health. His mission is to bring conversations about mental health into the open, offering hope and practical strategies for individuals and organizations.