Mental Health Awareness Week: Why Workplace Community Matters

This week is Mental Health Awareness Week which is run by the Mental Health Foundation.

This year, the theme is ‘Community’.  A sense of Community in the workplace is crucial for our mental wellbeing and our day to day productivity.  It also contributes towards a strong team and helps focus our mind.

Mental Health Facts  

• It is estimated that 15% of UK workers have an existing mental health condition

• Mental ill health is now the most common cause of work-limiting conditions among those aged 44 years and younger

• In 2022/23, there were an estimated 875,000 workers suffering from work-related stress, depression or anxiety, resulting in 17.1 million working days lost

Source of facts  https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/statistics/mental-health-work-statistics

At Band Hatton Button we have two Mental Health First Aiders, myself and Tracy Cross.  Two more colleagues will be undertaking the training this year.  An employer who is supportive of general wellbeing, is invaluable.

As May is also National Walking Month, we are encouraging all staff to get outside and get their steps in during the day.  A walk during the day can really help clear the mind and set you up for the rest of the day.

An understanding and an appreciation of Mental Health in all its forms, is essential for the workplace.  It is reassuring and comforting to know that colleagues have an informal, confidential outlet within the workplace, to address any stresses, worries, or to just have a chat!