World Mental Health Day
10th October 2024
It is Time to Prioritise Mental Health in the Workplace.
World Mental Health Day (WMHD) was founded by the World Federation for Mental Health on October 10th, 1992. It has been observed every year since with the aim of raising awareness about critical mental health agendas.
What is mental health?
There are more than 200 types of recognised mental health illnesses. We all have a mental health, and good mental health is an asset that helps us to thrive day-to-day. Mental health covers our emotional, psychological, and social well-being, which affects how we think, feel and act. Mental health is important at all stages of life, from childhood and adolescence through to adulthood; it helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others and make healthy choices.
Taking care of your mental health is extremely important and balancing work and life while prioritising your mental health can be a challenge but is essential. Here are some practical strategies to help you achieve that:
Setting Boundaries
Define Work Hours: Set clear start and end times for your workday. Communicate these boundaries with your colleagues.
Unplug After Hours: Avoid checking work emails or messages outside of your designated work hours.
Set Realistic Goals: Avoid overcommitting and be realistic about what you can accomplish within your work hours. Break tasks into manageable steps to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Time Management
Prioritise Tasks: Use tools like to-do lists or apps to prioritize your tasks based on urgency and importance.
Take Breaks: Incorporate short breaks throughout your day to recharge, even if it’s just a quick walk or stretch.
Mindfulness in the Workplace
Practice Mindfulness: Take a few minutes to practice mindfulness or deep breathing exercises during breaks to reduce stress.
Create a Positive Workspace: Personalise your workspace to make it more comfortable and calming.
Communication
Talk to Your Supervisor: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to discuss your workload with your supervisor. They may offer support or adjustments.
Establish Support Systems: Build relationships with colleagues to create a support network. Share experiences and strategies for coping.
Seek Resources
Utilise Employee Resources: If your workplace offers mental health resources, take advantage of them, whether it’s counselling or wellness programs.
Continuous Learning: Invest time in learning about mental health strategies and stress management techniques.
Reflection
Regular Check-Ins: Reflect on your work-life balance regularly. Adjust your strategies as needed based on what’s working or not.
By incorporating these strategies, you can create a healthier work environment that supports both your productivity and your mental well-being.
Read some of the strategies that our office staff undertake, outside of work, to maintain a good mental health:
Limit Screen Time
With the likes of TikTok and YouTube shorts, it is so easy to be stuck on the apps for hours, limiting your time to do other (more useful) tasks. There are studies to suggest that higher levels of screen use in children and young people are associated with reduced physical activity, increased risk of depression and lower well-being. Use this time to read a book or some of the other strategies listed below.
Staying Active
Regular physical activity can boost your mood and reduce anxiety, even if its as little as a daily walk. It’s recommended to take 30 minutes out of your day, 5 days per week to exercise – whether it be getting your steps in (10k daily), going for a swim or weightlifting at the gym.
Connect with Others
Social support is crucial for mental well-being. Reach out to friends and family and maintain relationships: you never know what others may be going through and you can always support each other.
Seek Professional Help
Some many not feel comfortable speaking to someone close to them about their issues. Sometime seeking a therapist or counsellor can be beneficial whether you are looking to vent or for advice. They are literally paid to listen and be a professional friend in a time of need.
Practice Mindfulness or Meditation
Techniques like mindfulness, deep breathing, or meditation can help you manage stress and stay grounded. Take time for yourself to really think and reflect – write down your thoughts and emotions through journalling.
Establish a Routine
Having a daily structure can provide a sense of normalcy and control. Routines such as waking up at the same time and going to sleep at the same time most days can keep you in check, as well as romanticising your day such as your skincare routine or your gym workout.
Engage in Hobbies
Spend time doing things you enjoy or try something new to keep your mind engaged. It is great to practice and get better at a hobby you once struggled with.
Eat Well and Get Enough Sleep
Prioritising a balanced diet and sleep go together and are crucial for emotional regulation and overall help. They can both have a positive impact on your mood and energy levels.
Remember, it’s okay to seek help and take things one step at a time.