Tuesday, July 9, 2024

Beyond the Keynote: Creative Ways to Utilise Mental Health Speakers

Over recent years, there has been a huge increase in the volume of media around mental health, which subsequently led to public demand for mental health speakers. The traditional keynote speech is still a fantastic way not only to raise awareness but also to inspire action, but there are so many other ways that these authentic voices can be used to share their expertise and experiences. Below, I have collated some innovative ways they continue to engage motivational speakers in London beyond just the conference stage.

Interactive Workshops

One of the most powerful ways to make these inspirational speakers in the UK really hit home would be through interactive workshops. Intimate Q & A sessions dive deeper into specific topics, providing attendees with the tools and strategies they can actually use in their daily lives. For example, a speaker focused on the body and stress might run an open workshop for managing various forms of tension. Because participants can ask questions, relate conversations to their own life or work experiences, and then practice those newly learned skills in a supportive environment, you tend to walk away with more lasting learnings than just sitting and listening as a one-way lecture.

Panel Discussions

Panel discussions are one of the best ways to bring several different voices who share insights on mental health. This allows for a diverse group of speakers, each with different perspectives and experiences (professional/usability/lived experience) to speak about the intersection between design and mental health. This is especially okay to use for difficult topics such as mental health and social issues, or how resources are available in other communities.

Q&A Sessions

While many events include a quick Q&A to wrap up some keynotes, try and dedicate an entire session for the audience questions. This helps attendees drive the conversation where they are interested around their topics which makes for a really personal and interactive experience. Listeners can learn more effectively, and it enables speakers to address particular problems that they may have by providing custom advice so that the session is not just informative but also meaningful for everyone at the room.

Storytelling Circles

The Narrative topic will feature stories from those who are in the field of mental health speaking. Crafting a place for storytelling is also an exchange that benefits all the participants, both willing to speak and listen. Or hear more about their journey with mental health in a way that can only be done writing to others who have been through similar experiences (in an even smaller group during my book club). The presence of this structure further compels the listeners to their own lives as well, perhaps even motivating them to contribute leadies-stories that foster a sense of support and commonality within our human community.

Professional Help

If you are unsure about where to start, get in touch with The Right Address UK speaker bureau to discuss your specific requirements.