Mental Health Awareness Week is an important opportunity to shed light on mental health issues and promote understanding and support for those who may be struggling. Each year, the week focuses on a specific theme, and in this case, the theme is anxiety. Anxiety affects millions of people worldwide, and it is crucial to raise awareness and provide resources to help individuals cope with anxiety.
It’s important to understand what mental health issues such as anxiety mean to those who experience it and for those that don’t, how they can be better empathisers. For example, learning the typical symptoms that come with anxiety, such as excessive worrying, restlessness, difficulty concentrating, and physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat or shortness of breath. Help people understand the severity of mental health and the importance of helping people get the support they need.
Having conversations about the prevalence of anxiety and how it can impact people’s daily lives, relationships, and overall well-being is crucial. Emphasis that anyone can experience anxiety, regardless of age, gender, or background, and that it is nothing to be ashamed of.
Overall speaking, we need to be looking after our mental, physical and emotional well-being in order to prevent poor mental health as well as have the tools and knowledge to know how to manage our anxiety when it arises. For example, learning deep breathing exercises, mindfulness, regular physical activity, getting adequate sleep, and practising self-care can all reduce anxiety levels.
At Goodman Masson, we have our Access network, which is a group of people that advocate for disabilities, neurodiversity, and mental health by working to spread awareness within the wider company. The group also work towards making changes, breaking stigmas and creating resources and opportunities for our people who may need support.
We believe that everyone should have access to someone in the workplace if they need to have a conversation about their mental health. Here at GM, we have our mental health first aiders who are available for people to approach if they want to have a confidential discussion about any issues or concerns, surrounding their mental health.
In terms of providing professional help for those who may be experiencing a difficult time and need to seek advice professionally, we have an Employee Assistance Programme in which people can sign up for confidential sessions with a specialist who can support them through whatever they may be dealing with.
Within our organisation, we actively promote a healthy work-life balance and how maintaining a work-life balance allows you to manage anxiety effectively. Last year we held a Well-Being Week full of activities, massages, exercise classes, educational talks from professionals, and healthy food options to encourage individuals to prioritise self-care, set boundaries, and engage in activities that promote relaxation and stress reduction. (Including a visit from the puppies from Cuddle Club!)
Mental Health Awareness Week is an opportunity to foster empathy, understanding, and support for individuals experiencing anxiety. By increasing awareness, providing information, and promoting resources, we can work towards a more compassionate and inclusive society where mental health is prioritised.
If you would like to work for a company that prioritises mental health, get in touch with our Talent Acquisition team:
internalrecruitment@goodmanmasson.com
Share this blog