Learn to Listen

Breathing Space Day, celebrated annually on February 1st, serves as an important reminder of the critical role listening plays in mental health support. The day also highlights the invaluable work of NHS 24’s Breathing Space service, a free and confidential phone and web chat service available to anyone in Scotland aged 16 and over who is experiencing low mood, depression, or anxiety.

Listening is the core of Breathing Space, providing a compassionate and non-judgemental presence to those in need. The service has been a cornerstone of mental health support for over two decades, offering a compassionate ear 365 days of the year, and demonstrates how empathetic listening can significantly improve mental wellbeing and offer much-needed solace during difficult times.

To access Breathing Space, call 0800 83 85 87 or visit www.breathingspace.scot for webchat services. 

Tony McLaren, National Coordinator for Breathing Space explained:

“2024 was a milestone year for Breathing Space as it marked the 20th anniversary of our service. During that time our skilled colleagues provided a lifeline to those needing support by responding to over 180,000 calls and 8,000 webchats. 

“As listening is the heart of Breathing Space’s service, this Breathing Space Day we are promoting the transformative impact that listening—and truly hearing someone—can have on mental wellbeing.” 

Breathing Space is calling on everyone is encouraging everyone to practice their active listening skills. ‘Learn to listen’ tips include: 

• Be attentive: Focus entirely on the speaker by eliminating distractions, maintaining eye contact, and demonstrating genuine interest in what they have to say.  
• Listen without judgement: Allow the speaker to share their thoughts and feelings openly by creating a safe space and withholding judgement and criticism.  
• Reflect and clarify: Repeat what the speaker has said to show you grasp what they truly mean. Ask more questions if needed to confirm your understanding.  
• Validate feelings: Demonstrate empathy and support by acknowledging the speaker’s emotions and experiences, whether you agree with them or not. 
• Use non-verbal cues: If you are speaking face-to-face, nod and smile where appropriate and use open body language to signal attentiveness.  
• Be patient and allow for silence: Allow the speaker to express themselves at their own pace and understand that silence can also be a powerful tool when talking. Avoid interruptions or rushing the chat to allow the speaker to gather their thoughts and fully share their feelings. 
• Ask open-ended questions: Encourage the speaker to expand on their thoughts by asking questions that require more than a yes or no answer. 
• Offer support, not solutions: Instead of jumping to provide solutions, simply offer your support and understanding. Sometimes, just being there to listen is the most helpful thing you can do. 

Tony continued:

“As we celebrate Breathing Space Day, the message is clear: No one should face their struggles alone. Take the time to reach out to a loved one or someone you trust to share your thoughts and feelings. If this feels overwhelming, remember that Breathing Space is also here to help. Whether it’s a call or a webchat, Breathing Space’s trained advisers are ready to listen and offer a safe and confidential space for anyone in need.”