How to Talk About Mental Health & Stress in English | English Conversation Practice (Listen & Speak)

Описание: 🧠 How do you talk about mental health in English—openly, clearly, and respectfully?
Even native speakers sometimes struggle with the right words. In this episode of English Fluency Fastlane, Alice and Bob give you a simple, practical vocabulary toolkit so you can express feelings with confidence—and respond supportively when someone else opens up.

This is everyday English that helps you connect more deeply with people at work, school, home, or anywhere life gets stressful.

✅ What you’ll learn in this episode
1) Gentle ways to say you’re not okay (without sounding dramatic)

Instead of only saying “I’m sad,” you’ll learn natural phrases like:

“I’m feeling a bit down today.”

“I’ve been feeling overwhelmed lately.” (too much to handle)

“I’m going through a tough time.”

“I’m struggling with my mental wellbeing right now.”

These phrases help you communicate honestly while keeping the tone calm and respectful.

2) Essential mental health vocabulary (simple + commonly used)

We break down the most common terms English speakers use in real life:

anxious / anxiety (adjective vs noun)

depression (more than “sad for a day”)

stress and stress levels

burnout (exhausted after too much work for too long)

wellbeing

mood

self-care

You’ll hear clear examples so you can use these words naturally in conversation.

3) Supportive phrases to help a friend (without giving instant advice)

One of the most important skills in English is knowing how to respond with care.
In this episode, you’ll learn supportive, respectful lines like:

“Thank you for telling me.”

“I hear you.”

“That sounds really difficult.”

“How can I best support you right now?”

These phrases show empathy and keep the conversation safe and kind.

4) Talking about professional support (in a gentle, helpful way)

If someone wants help finding support, we give practical English you can use:

therapist / counselor / mental health professional

“Would you like some help researching local resources?”

“I can sit with you while you make a call.”

Small, practical offers can feel more supportive than “You should see someone.”

5) “Stigma” and how to talk about it

We explain the key word stigma (shame that stops people from speaking openly) and useful phrases like:

“I wish there was less stigma around therapy.”

“Let’s try to break the stigma by speaking openly.”

6) Self-care English (what to say when asked how you cope)

Real answers you can reuse immediately:

“I need some time for myself to recharge.”

“I’m trying to practice mindfulness.”

“I’m going for a walk to clear my head.”

“I’m making sure to get enough sleep—it helps my mood.”

🧾 Vocabulary recap from this episode

down • overwhelmed • anxious / anxiety • depression • stress • burnout • wellbeing • mood • self-care • stigma • mindfulness • recharge • tough time • struggling

🎯 Try this speaking practice (repeat out loud)

“Lately, I’ve been feeling a bit overwhelmed. I’m trying to focus on my wellbeing by getting enough sleep and doing more self-care. A walk helps me clear my head.”

💬 Question for you

What helps you feel better when you’re stressed—sleep, exercise, music, or talking to someone?
Comment below using one new word from the episode (like overwhelmed, burnout, or recharge).


talk about mental health in English, mental health vocabulary ESL, English phrases for emotions, supportive phrases in English, anxiety vs anxious English, burnout meaning in English, English conversation practice podcast, English Fluency Fastlane, self-care vocabulary English, stigma meaning English