Episode 3: Mental Health in the Workplace – An Employee Guide
Mental Health affects over one sixth of people in the UK, and with us spending the majority of our time in the workplace, it’s important to know how to look after ourselves and others to prevent Mental Health problems arising.
The work environment should promote positive Mental Health to help us to be healthy and happy.
Looking after your own Mental Health at work:
- Talk about your feelings – this can help you to maintain your mental health. Talk with someone you feel comfortable with, whether that be a colleague or manager. If you can’t talk to someone within work, talk to someone outside such as a partner, friend or family member
- Take a break – a change of scene or pace is good for your mental health. Whether your break be a quick walk to get some water, or a walk on your lunch break, it can do wonders for your mind. If taking public transport on your commute, you could read a book or listen to a podcast. Taking a break also includes getting a good night’s sleep. Listening to your body when it’s tired is key to feeling more refreshed the next day.
- Teamwork – Working in a supportive team is hugely important for our Mental Health. Try to maintain relationships outside of work too, as a work-life balance is very important and will help you to fight against loneliness.
- Ask for help – we all need help from time to time, so don’t be afraid to ask when you need it. Whether that be a colleague, manager or the HR department, there will always be someone to listen to you and support you.
Looking after your co-workers:
- Reassure and encourage others to talk, ensuring that there are no signs of surprise or judgement. Reassure your colleagues that you will treat what they say with respect, and don’t be afraid to give suggestions. However, they may just want to vent how they are feeling, and listening can help with this.
- Offer people the chance to discuss their mental health at supervision sessions if you manage them
- Offer to be a friendly support on an ongoing basis
- Ask if there’s anything you can do to support them. E.g. they may ask you to spot signals that they may miss that indicate that they may be becoming unwell
Don’t forget, there is always help out there if you are struggling with your mental health. Here are the Mind and Time to Change links. Additionally, there is help out there if you are worried about someone else’s mental health, such as this Mind Charity Resource.
Find out more about Mental Health in the workplace in our handy blog, or look at our Mental Health Guide for Employers.
