World Mental Health Day: Embracing Mental Health In The Workplace
Every year, the 10th of October marks World Mental Health Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about mental health issues and promoting mental wellbeing globally. It’s essential to bring attention to one of the key environments where our mental well-being is significantly influenced: the workplace. For many of us, work is where we spend a substantial portion of our waking hours, making it a crucial part of our lives and overall mental health. This year’s theme reminds us that mental health isn't just an individual concern; it's an organisational one that deserves collective attention and action.
Mental health plays a vital role in not only individual productivity but also in team dynamics and workplace culture. Poor mental health can lead to decreased productivity, social isolation and relationship difficulties as a person begins to struggle communicating with those around them. Whereas a supportive work environment that encourages mental well-being can enhance job satisfaction, spark creativity, and bolster collaboration. It cultivates a culture where employees feel valued and understood, enabling them to contribute their best selves.
Despite the clear benefits of prioritising mental health, many workplaces struggle with the stigma of mental health, burnout, and a lack of resources available for their employees. Stressors such as tight deadlines, high expectations, and workplace bullying can also contribute to a person’s mental health diminishing. This then often discourages employees from seeking help, fearing judgement or negative repercussions on their career progression.
How to look after and protect your own mental health whilst at work;
Establish Boundaries: Learn to say no when necessary and set clear boundaries between work and personal time. This is crucial in maintaining your mental health and preventing burnout.
Seek Help: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Whether through a mental health professional, a trusted colleague, or a support group, remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Communicate Needs: Be proactive in communicating your needs to supervisors or human resources. Whether it’s requesting a flexible schedule or more manageable workloads, open communication is key to finding solutions. Build Connections: Foster connections with colleagues. A supportive workplace culture can significantly impact mental health. Engage in team-building activities or informal gatherings to strengthen these bonds.
What Support Tulia Offers
Here at Tulia we offer emotional intelligence and wellbeing training that is bespoke and tailored, that uplifts the whole person; in every aspect of life there is always room for new growth. Check out one of our many training programmes today. We have developed the course content based on Christian principles and critical thinking skills required for real – world problems.
Join a peer support group - Tulia's Peer Support Group offers a supportive community for individuals navigating the UK immigration system. It provides a platform for sharing experiences, gaining insights, and receiving emotional support from others in similar situations. The group may also offer workshops, informational sessions, and resources to help members better understand immigration processes and their rights. click here to join
Join a prayerline -Tulia's Prayer Line offers spiritual support and a listening ear for individuals who may be going through challenging times, especially related to immigration and asylum processes. It provides a space for individuals to share their concerns and receive prayers and encouragement from a compassionate team. click here to join
Further Support Services
ACAS - Public body that provides information, advice, and services related to employment and workplace relations. ACAS plays an important role in promoting good working practices and helping to prevent and resolve workplace disputes in the UK. Its services aim to foster a fair and productive working environment.
MIND - a prominent mental health charity. Its mission is to ensure that anyone experiencing a mental health problem receives support and understanding. plays a critical role in supporting individuals with mental health challenges, advocating for improvements in mental health services, and fostering a better understanding of mental health issues in society.
Mental Health Helplines
Samaritans - 116 123
Shout – text ‘SHOUT’ to 85258
SOS – 0808 115 1505
