As we go into our busiest season, we know how important it is to deliver our clients work, but it's even more important to look after ourselves and each other. So before we get into our 'silly season' the whole team took time to take part in Mental Health Awareness training with St John Ambulance.
The course was delivered at our offices and provided a very uplifting and positive start to the week. As a team we do many things in our day to day lives to promote a positive culture in the workplace, such as taking a break from our desks to get outside during lunch and eating together. We support each other with fitness goals and there is much encouragement for individuals who are training for specific events or trying new activities.
The course gave us a greater understanding of common mental health conditions and prompted us to evaluate how we might support and communicate with someone experiencing mental ill-health. We discussed possible stigma and the problems that can come with how we react to someone experiencing mental ill-health. The importance of signposting over giving advice was emphasised, with a clear explanation of the different services available and the various ways that they can be contacted.
If someone is showing signs of stress there are many things that we instinctively do to help that person and often, we react without consciously thinking about it; “anyone for tea?” However, sometimes this can also mean that we unintentionally offer advise which might not be supportive or helpful. We finished the training more informed and fortunate that we already implement many activities that promote good mental health in the workplace.
If you need help or know someone who is struggling, encourage them to seek further advice either through their own reading or reaching out to one of the organisations below:
Homepage | Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) (thecalmzone.net)
Mental Health Support Network provided by Chasing the Stigma | Hub of hope
