Mental Health Month

Prioritising Mental Health in the Workplace

Prioritising Mental Health

October is Mental Health Month, a time to highlight the importance of mental well-being in every aspect of our lives. This annual initiative sparks conversations and raises awareness about mental health. This year’s theme, We all have a role to play! reminds us that fostering a mentally healthy society is a shared responsibility.

Why mental health matters

The reality for many of us is that we spend a large portion of our lives in various environments—whether at work, at home, or within our communities. It’s in these spaces that we interact with others, face challenges, and grow as individuals. Creating environments and cultures that support and safeguard people is essential to the sustained well-being of both individuals and the broader organisation or community.

In an interview with Stephen Bartlett, host of the podcast ‘Diary of a CEO’, neuroscientist Dr Tara Swart talks about the contagious effects of stress and anxiety between people. We’ve likely all experienced this at various stages, whether with a difficult customer or meeting exchange. This phenomenon is amplified further when experienced between a person of authority and their subordinate. Swart consults with business leaders on integrating strategies into their own daily routines and management practices to mitigate the effects of stress and build resilience at the same time.

Clinical psychologist Natalia Peart, PhD, states that addressing stress and burnout is essential for business success. Stress-related issues lead to increased turnover, impaired strategic thinking, and decreased creativity. Peart encourages employers to adopt organisation-level approaches to reduce stress and enhance employee well-being, ultimately benefiting both the individual and the organisation.

Reducing Stress and Anxiety: Practical Strategies

Get Sweaty!

The daily grind can be overwhelming, but incorporating physical activity, even a brisk 30-minute walk, can help release pent-up stress. Outdoor exercise offers an extra boost of “feel-good” chemicals, helping to alleviate anxiety and instil a renewed sense of calm and happiness.

Dear Diary...

Daily journaling has gained popularity as a tool to build positive routines. With notable figures from Tim Ferris to Oprah Winfrey expounding the benefits of regular journaling, writing down your thoughts, emotions, and experiences has fast become a proven aid for mental health. It’s a simple, yet effective practice to manage stress and bring clarity and relief.

Getting enough sleep!

Quality sleep is vital for mental health. Establishing a consistent sleep routine can improve resilience and cognitive function, helping to better manage work-related challenges. Consistent sleep isn’t always possible but building a wind-down routine and adopting good sleep hygiene, such as avoiding electronic devices and eating too close to bedtime will help in getting enough sleep.

Holding Space for Ourselves & Others

It’s important to check-in with ourselves and those we are surrounded by, with openness and acceptance. Everyone’s capacity to deal with challenges, whether physical, mental or emotional, is different and changes all the time. By bringing a gentle curiosity to how we’re feeling – free of judgement – we begin to build awareness and resilience into our lives.

Mental Health Month reminds us that we all play a role in fostering a supportive, inclusive, and stigma-free environment. By adopting practical strategies to manage stress and anxiety, seeking help when needed, and promoting well-being in our workplaces, we can collectively make strides toward a healthier and happier society.