10th October every year is World Mental Health Day. This year’s theme is ‘it’s time to prioritise mental health in the workplace’, something which we know people in print take very seriously. So we hosted a Knowledge Exchange webinar where anyone was welcome to join us and share what’s been effective in their workplace, and gain inspiration from what others have done, too.
Some really great thoughts for workplace mental wellbeing support were shared during the session, and we’ve summarised them here.
Think about providing health checks for physical and mental wellbeing
Maintaining good physical and mental wellbeing can go hand in hand, as physical health problems significantly increase the risk of suffering from poor mental wellbeing.
Body MOTs or health checks arranged for employees in the workplace can identify any potential issues early on, to help maintain a healthy balance in daily life. There may be third sector organisations local to you which carry these out, or they could be provided through the council in your area.
Use technology for easy access to health tools
Health apps and digital tools enable people to set wellness goals, track their progress towards them, and access resources to support both mental and physical health, any time, anywhere.
There are smartphone apps, including free options, which offer specific support such as mindfulness and meditation, or help with depression, anxiety or stress through the principles of cognitive behavioural therapy.
In addition, the Printing Charity’s helpline can provide access to the wellbeing app My Possible Self.
Find wellbeing champions to lead in-work wellbeing support
Passionate wellbeing champions across a business are a point of contact where people know they can turn if things inside or outside work are challenging. Many organisations also train mental health first aiders as a vital first-line support available to anyone who may need them.
Wellbeing champaigns can inspire others, drive uptake of mental wellbeing initiatives, and encourage open conversations, all of which help build a culture where everyone feels supported and able to be themselves in the workplace.
Set time and space for wellbeing activities
Dedicating specific time and space for supporting wellbeing means time and space for activities that reduce stress, whether that’s through fun group events or simply by providing a dedicated space in the office where everyone knows they can go to relax and recharge.
Displaying information about the wellbeing support on offer in the organisation in the places where people can go to take some time away from work – whether a specific room, communal space such as a kitchen, or even a sheltered space with seating outside – means people know where to find that information, and it’s on hand whenever it’s needed.
For 24/7/365 in-the-moment emotional support, and practical information and advice, the free, confidential and independent Printing Charity helpline is here for employees in any business in print and the allied trades. To find out more, including how to sign up, please visit our website.