THE Wee County came together to join the UK's biggest conversation on mental health stigma as part of Time to Talk Day.

Community groups, schools and organisations across Clackmannanshire set aside time for a workshop to discuss mental health and the services available to anybody struggling.

Time to Talk Day took place on Thursday, February 2, and aims to encourage talking about our feelings and seeking help if necessary.

Transform Forth Valley, which has bases in Alloa and Falkirk, invited staff and service users to initiate conversations with close family or friends about their mental health.

Claire Hughes, senior service manager at Transform Forth Valley, said: "It was great to see everyone turn out to talk about mental health.

"Events like this are important to allow staff to reflect on their own mental health and share feelings and experiences with colleagues, family and friends.

"This in turn will help the people we support with a stronger, more open workforce."

Mental health awareness has seen a rise in Scotland, but research has shown that three in five Scots believe the cost-of-living crisis has had an impact on their well-being.

Most respondents to the survey stated they didn't want to be a burden by talking to other people about how they were feeling.

Others felt the need to downplay their emotions and said there were "bigger issues" to worry about, pushing them further into silence.

Time to Talk Day is organised by See Me Scotland, a national programme devoted to ending stigma around mental health and discrimination.

The organisation say the country has made leaps and bounds in promotion mental health discussion, but insists there is still a long way to go.

Zoe Mason, spokesperson for See Me, said: "Time to Talk Day is hugely important. Talking openly about our mental health is vital, and potentially life-saving.

"We've come a long way in normalising the conversation around mental health, but a lot of stigma still exists for people struggling with their mental health, particularly for people with enduring mental health conditions.

"Making mental health part of our everyday conversation is a step towards reducing and getting rid of the stigma and discrimination that still exists around mental health."

There are many services around Clackmannanshire for anyone seeking help with their well-being, including the Wee County and Forth Valley Men's Sheds.

Visit seemescotland.org/SeeUs for more information about Time to Talk Day.