April Watson

The sound of silence - 20 hours for mental health

For 20 hours, I’ll be sitting in silence inside a 2 metre taped square on the floor in which I cannot leave — no phone, no music, no books, no distractions. Just me, my journal, sleeping bag and my thoughts. 

I’m sure those of you who know me will know silence is not my strong suit as a certified yapper but i’m doing this to raise awareness and funds for 20Talk, a charity that supports young people’s mental health. Too often, people who are struggling feel like they can’t speak up or don’t have anyone to listen. Mental health can make you feel isolated, like no one can hear or see you and by doing this fundraiser and staying silent for 20 hours, I’ll be silent in solidarity with them — giving my voice to the silent by choosing silence myself. To let you know I hear you, I see you and you’re not alone. 

It’s a simple act, but it feels powerful. I know it won’t be easy to sit with my thoughts for that long, without the usual noise and escape which we’re all so used too. But that’s part of the message — that it’s okay to pause, to listen inwardly, and to acknowledge the hard stuff we often avoid.

This challenge isn’t just about silence. It’s about connection — reminding us that even when it feels like no one sees us, there are people who care, who want to listen, and who want to make a difference.

If you’d like to support me and 20Talk, please donate or sharing this fundraiser.

Together, we can help break the stigma and remind every young person that their voice matters.

All my love,

April xx

20 hours of silence