Published: 13 May 2024
Addressing Mental Health in the workplace isn't exactly a walk in the park. For many, it remains a sensitive topic, one we'd rather sidestep than confront head-on. Yet, statistics show that 1 in 6 people report experiencing a common mental health problem (like anxiety and depression) in any given week in England. Whether these struggles stem from work pressures or personal life, they inevitably affect our performance on the job. So, why exactly is mental health crucial in the workplace? What signs should we watch for? And how can we foster a culture of positive well-being?
Why does Mental Health matter?
Firstly, we must recognise that mental health is universal—we all have it. The good news is that it's not always negative; we can enjoy good mental health too. Those days when we feel unstoppable, ready to conquer any obstacle the world throws our way—that's the positive mental state we're after. Just as our physical health fluctuates, so does our mental well-being. Acknowledging and discussing this openly in the workplace plays a vital role in nurturing the well-being of our teams.
Navigating through our daily challenges, both at work and in our personal lives can be demanding. Often, the pressures we face outside of work are unseen by our colleagues. Have we taken a moment to consider the myriad of emotions our coworkers might be dealing with? From financial worries and relationship strains to health concerns, there's a range of stresses people may be experiencing. Disregarding or downplaying these emotions can potentially escalate into more serious conditions like depression or severe anxiety.
Spotting the signs
Promoting positive mental health is a collective responsibility, just as looking out for our colleagues is. It's not enough to brush off concerns with "HR will handle it" or "It's not my job as their manager." As colleagues and often friends, we owe it to each other to be vigilant. Here are some behaviours that might signal a colleague is struggling:
- Physical symptoms like fatigue, frequent headaches, or a lack of energy.
- Uncharacteristic irritability or complacency.
- Decreased productivity or an increase in mistakes.
- Difficulty making decisions or reaching conclusions.
- Unexplained absences or a change in punctuality.
While these signs might manifest in anyone's life at some point, in the case of poor mental health, they often escalate rapidly, deviating significantly from their usual behaviours. Sometimes, these symptoms go unnoticed, underscoring the need for these discussions to be a regular part of workplace dialogue.
Simple ways to promote positive Mental Health
- Talking about feelings: While it may seem daunting, just opening up can make a world of difference. If discussing mental health openly in the office feels uncomfortable, confide in a trusted colleague. You might be surprised—they could be grappling with similar feelings.
- Maintaining a healthy lifestyle: We often boast about newfound healthy habits like eating well or staying hydrated, primarily for their physical benefits. Yet, these habits also profoundly impact our mental well-being.
- Regular exercise: Exercise isn't just about physical fitness—it's a potent tool for improving mental health. Even a short walk during lunch can release endorphins, reducing stress and boosting mood.
- Laughter: A good laugh can work wonders for morale, lifting spirits and fostering camaraderie. Of course, timing matters—perhaps save the jokes for appropriate moments!
- Playing to strengths: Engaging in tasks we excel at bolsters self-esteem and uplifts our mood, especially during low points.
While Mental Health Awareness Week is a great initiative, fostering a culture of awareness shouldn't be confined to a single week. It should be woven into our everyday conversations and integrated into workplace policies. For more resources on mental health awareness, organisations like Mental Health.org offer valuable insights.
Remember, it's okay not to be okay. Let's start talking and support each other through these challenging times.