People struggling with mental health issues are being encouraged to open up.

The Time to Talk campaign, which is being adopted by KentOnline, kmfm and KMTV's Charity of the Year, mcch, runs today.

The Maidstone-based group aims to help people with learning disabilities, autism and mental health needs in Kent and the south east.

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The day of awareness is aimed at breaking down the stigma and barriers which are associated with someone who has a mental health diagnosis.

The charity mcch has said it's also important to understand what people are going through, by truly listening.

Senior operations manager for mcch, Lisa Parle, said: "Around the country there will be planned events aimed at raising awareness of mental health issues.

"Time to Talk is about people talking about mental health so it encourages people to talk about their own experiences.

"It feels good to have someone to talk to, whether it be to a friend or colleague.

"Society in general has some quite stereotyped views about mental illness.

"When you speak to someone struggling with their mental health, what they say is they don't want to be perceived as the condition but the person they actually are.

"I've worked in mental health for 25 years, it's always been a passion of mine.

"Time to Talk is about breaking down the myth, breaking down the barriers and getting people to know what it's about.

"Everyone knows what it's like to feel low in mood. With mental health problems it's about having those feelings but enhanced and it affects their ability to carry on with everyday activities."

Some tips the charity gives to help people open up about their mental health are to not judge people, keep everything confidential and let them tell their story.

People are also being encouraged to ask those who look like they are struggling how they are.

For more information about mcch visit www.mcch.org.uk