Time to Talk Day: supporting teacher wellbeing in schools

What is Time to Talk Day?

Time to Talk Day is an annual awareness day, this year taking place on Thursday the 5th of February 2026. Time to Talk Day is a national campaign that encourages open conversations about mental health and emotional wellbeing. It aims to reduce stigma and help people feel more comfortable talking about how they’re truly feeling.

For teachers and school staff, Time to Talk Day is a reminder that wellbeing matters just as much as workload, outcomes and deadlines. Everyday moments in the staffroom, the classroom, or during a quiet check-in can create space for meaningful conversations and support.

Talking about mental health doesn’t need to be formal or overwhelming. Small, honest conversations can remind people that they’re not alone.

How can teachers get involved?

You don’t need to plan a big event to take part. Simple actions can have a positive impact, such as:

• Checking in with a colleague and asking how they’re feeling
• Going for a walk or getting some fresh air at lunch
• Inviting someone for a coffee and a chat after school
• Delivering a short assembly focused on mental health and well-being 
• Building in a wellbeing check-in during tutor time or PSHE

Supporting well-being in schools

For Time to Talk Day, interactive and pupil-friendly activities can help normalise conversations about feelings and wellbeing:

• Feelings check-ins: pupils each have an emoji card and ask classmates yes/no questions to guess the emotion, opening a discussion around different feelings
• Walk and talk sessions: encourage relaxed conversation in pairs or small groups whilst getting some fresh air
• Emotional toolboxes: pupils identify coping strategies that work for them and create a personal wellbeing toolkit
• Storytelling and discussion: explore emotions, empathy and mental health through stories

These small moments can help create a safer, more supportive school environment where staff and pupils feel able to speak openly to their peers and seek guidance when they need it.     

Time to Talk Day school packs

This school pack from Mind includes lesson plans, activities and guidance to support age-appropriate conversations about mental health and wellbeing. 

Support available for Engage teachers:

Teaching can be emotionally demanding, and it’s important to know that support is available when things feel overwhelming. Through your school or trust, and when registered with us, you have access to an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) with Education Support. EAP offers confidential, 24/7 mental health and wellbeing support, including access to counselling, wellbeing resources such as mindfulness tools, life coaching, and practical advice for both personal and work-related challenges. Visit our benefits page to learn more about the support available to you.

For full access to these benefits, register with us today and work with an agency that supports your mental health as much as your career!