Every year – Mental Health Awareness Week takes place in May. Here’s your guide to working well and mental wellness. 

Mental Health Awareness Week this year begins on 15^th May. But one week in the year is not going to cut it for keeping on top of mental wellbeing in your organisation. 

Signposting

I’m sure your organisation has different mechanisms for helping colleagues with their mental wellbeing. The issue here is offering that support once their mental wellbeing has slipped to a point where intervention is needed. 

Occupational health is a great thing to have available, but how do we help colleagues to keep an eye on theirs and each other’s mental wellbeing?

-        Look out for behaviours that are out of character for your colleagues. Maybe they are working later, or maybe they are not engaging with colleagues or customers as much as usual. 

-        Have regular catch ups – this is not just for managers to catch up with their team members. But give colleagues the time and space to catch up with each other too. Creating a support network across the team can really make a difference. 

-        Depending on communication channels you use with your teams, make sure there is space for regular reminders about the importance of mental wellbeing. You can signpost colleagues to mindfulness activities or how they can get involved in community projects. Helping others has proven to be a boost for our own mental wellness. 

Remember the five steps to wellbeing

The five steps to wellbeing can be a great conversation starter with your team. Think about how you as an organisation can act on each of these areas: 

1. Connect – talk listen, be there and feel connected
2. Be Active – Do what you can, enjoy what you do.
3. Take Notice – Remember the simple things that give you joy
4. Keep Learning – Embrace new experiences and see the opportunities 
5. Give – Your time, words and perspective 

Look after yourself

One valuable piece of advice we are given on the safety instructions of a flight is “you need to put your own oxygen mask on before helping others.” The same goes for your mental wellbeing. It’s a lot harder to help others if you are in need of help too. So practise what you preach and get involved in the five steps to wellbeing, and seek support when you need it too.