Today marks World Mental Health Day and gives as an opportunity to reflect on the importance of our wellbeing at work and at home and how that might affect our interaction with those around us. It can influence how well we function every day in those home and work environments, often without us realising just how much. It also reminds us to appreciate those with whom we come into contact who may not be coping as well as they appear to be. A lot of us are good at “putting a brave face” on things, but behind that mask there may be someone who is really struggling.
As an employer and an employee, it is worth revisiting what resources and support are available. This may be in the form of confidential counselling services, mental health first aiders, HR professionals or managers who can provide a confidential space to share any challenges we may be going through. If you are a member of a trade union, they can also provide support, including in many cases, financial advice when times are tough. We can also help ourselves; taking regular breaks, taking the leave we are entitled to, eating well and getting regular physical exercise. Appraisals and supervision sessions can also be an opportunity to share something of what we may be going through, if that is affecting our performance.
All of that said, it can be difficult striking the right balance between being supportive on one hand and becoming too intrusive on the other. Often it is just about asking how someone is and then raising awareness, reminding co-workers what is available and offering some discrete encouragement. We can all relate to that feeling of relief we experience when we share a problem with someone we trust and get a different perspective on it.
Economic uncertainty, inflation and rising costs are affecting all of us to various degrees at the moment. Even the most robust among us can feel the pressure. Add to that any changes in personal circumstances or even the isolation that can come from hybrid working and it can all take its toll on our ability to maintain good mental health. Now is therefore, a particularly important time to maintain good health and support others around us to do the same by making the most of the resources available.
If you have any questions about managing mental health in the workplace; reasonable adjustments, practical considerations regarding mental health in the workplace or any other employment query, please contact Chris Phillips in our specialist Employment Law team on 03330 430350, or alternatively contact a member of the Employment Law team.
