Flourish Health & Wellbeing eMag - Latest Edition - Flipbook - Page 24
How to hold a sideways conversation
A mental health conversation can be
confronting, and if you’re the one
reaching out, the person on the
receiving end can sometimes feel that
you’re being accusatory, causing some
men to shut down. So, this technique
aims to reduce the amount of pressure
these conversations can engender. But
how does a sideways conversation
work?
Do an activity you both enjoy – like
driving, gardening, or running.
Hold the conversation in tandem
when you’re side-by-side.
While you converse, there will be
less eye contact; however, the
conversation will feel more organic,
natural, and, ultimately, less
threatening.
Be mindful that they may still be
guarded and reluctant to speak.
Don’t push them. Frequently check
in because you never know when
they’ll be ready to talk.
Try this technique the next time you
want to reach out to a friend, relative, or
colleague – regardless of their gender.
We all want to live in a mentally fit
world, so reach out to your loved ones
and make sure they’re okay!
