Factsheet 4: Conversation
Reflection Tool
Having the Conversation Conversation Reflection
If you ’ re preparing to talk to someone about their mental health, you might like to use this reflection tool y Beyond Blue. It will take you through some things to consider Sometimes it’s helpful to write down your thoughts and intentions, as a way of reflecting and preparing for a conversation.
Tool
Beyond Blue have created a simple “Conversation Reflection Tool”
A digital version is available on their website
Here are some questions to think about before you have the conversation
Why are you having this conversation?
Reflect on your intentions and what you ’ re hoping to achieve. It might be to show care or concern, to understand what’s going on for them, or to encourage them to see a mental health professional
Write down some things that concern you, and some goals.
When will be a good time to talk?
Find a time when you're both fairly relaxed and not rushed. Avoid busy, emotionally charged or time-limited moments
Find a time when you ’ re both fairly relaxed and not rushed
Let them know in advance if it’s going to be more than a casual chat You could say, ” Hey, do you have time later to catch up one-on-one?”
Write down some times and ways you might suggest a chat
Factsheet 4: Conversation Reflection Tool
Conversation Reflection Tool
Here are some questions to think about before you have the conversation.
Where will be a good place to talk?
Choose a safe and private place
Avoid overly crowded or formal settings, unless that's what the other person prefers Consider neutral spaces – a park bench, a car ride, or a break room – where the environment feels less intense
Write down some ideas of places to have the conversation.
What will you say you’ve noticed?
Focus on changes in behaviour you ’ ve noticed. Try to be objective. You dint need a script but do give yourself a starting point. For example, “I’ve noticed you don’t seem yourself lately- how are you doing?” or “You seem to be coming less to training – are you ok?”
Write down some things that you have noticed
The information in this factsheet is designed to help you better understand mental health and what you can do to better support a young person who might be going through a tough time. It is to provide you with support and in turn confidence to offer initial assistance and guide a young person toward professional help
Factsheet 4: Conversation
Reflection
Tool
Conversation Reflection Tool
Here are some questions to think about before you have the conversation.
Are you in the right space and mindset to support someone?
If your own emotions are high, like frustrations or anxiety, try to process those first Make sure you're able to approach the person calmly and without judgment
If you don’t feel you ’ re able to support someone at the moment, is there anyone else who shares your concerns who can have the conversation?
Depending on the situation and your relationship with them, is it worth considering whether anyone else is better placed to have the conversation?
If you do decide it’s better for someone else to make the approach, it is important to ensure that someone has the conversation if concerns exist
Write down any personal worries you might have (optional)
What resources and supports might you be prepared with?
While your focus is listening to understand, it can be handy to have a few support options in case they’re needed.
A trusted GP
Trusted family or friends
headspace: The National Youth Mental Health Foundation offers free online, phone (1800 650 890), and face-to-face services (ages 12–25) Local centres include Wodonga, Wangaratta and Wagga
Workplace supports (like EAP counselling)
You might also have some ideas for activities you can do together while you ’ re supporting them Often just being there, and helping them feel less alone, is the most helpful thing you can do
Write down some support options contacts, links or ideas for activities.