I think we can all agree that 2020 has been quite the year so far.
It has tested resilience, patience, relationships and what we view as “normal life”.
It’s allowed us to see the best and worst of human nature.
For some it has been a time of heartache, for others a time of transformation and growth.
Whatever it has been for you, it is certainly not what any of us planned.
Who knows what the rest of this year holds.
What we can hold onto is hope that this will pass at some point, a knowing that life will change yet again, and that we will adapt and adjust, embrace and accept just as we have done so far (albeit kicking and screaming for some).
With all the challenges that this year has presented, now is a good time to talk about mental health.
Before we do, here is what I want you to know.
It’s ok to not be ok.
We need to change the narrative around mental health struggles and encourage help seeking.
The more we talk about it, the more we normalise the conversation and help to reduce any stigma.
Here’s what else I want you to know.
People care. They really do.
There are so many great professionals out there ready and willing to help. GP’s, Psychologists, Psychiatrists, Employee Assistance Programs, Helplines, Telehealth services.
All you need to do is reach out.
I’ve included some helplines at the bottom of this post.
Here are some great reasons to start talking about mental health in your workplace.
RUOK day on Thursday the 10th of September
RUOK is about suicide prevention through reaching out and connecting with people in a meaningful way. Checking on each other and providing support when needed.
They have put together some amazing resources which you can access here
Promote this in your workplace and get some conversations started.
World Mental Health Day is on Saturday the 10th of October
This is about raising awareness of mental health and mental illness.
The walk for mental health: Black Dog Institute - October
Walk while you raise awareness for mental health.
Find out more here.
To keep the conversation going in your organisation, consider Mental Health First Aid.
Such important training and a great way to offer support to your people.
If anyone is interested in Mental Health First Aid, you can find information here.
I’m very proud to be an accredited instructor in Mental Health First Aid and would love to start (or continue) this journey with you, so reach out at any time.
You can view my Instructor profile here.
There are several Mental Health First Aid programs (including the workplace program) which can now be delivered remotely via video conferencing technology.
So many good reasons to raise awareness about mental health!
Look out for each other. Support each other.
Know that people care.
Lifeline 131114
BeyondBlue 1300224636
Suicide Call back Service 1300659467
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