Within the UK awareness around mental health has grown, thanks to many well-known people talking openly about it. I am aware however, through experience, that many companies who are keen to raise awareness within their own organisations just don't know where to start.
I was recently involved in discussions with a senior leadership team, who had been debating for months about how to start the conversation and then how to keep it going, but just couldn't see a way to even begin. They had lots of ideas and information but just weren't sure what to do first. At the other end of the spectrum there are companies that invest considerable amounts in developing Mental Health First Aiders within their businesses, without first having a plan or understanding what they are trying to achieve.
Don't, for one second, think I'm saying not to get people trained in this area, I've done the training myself so I understand the value of a mental health first aider, but without a plan and the right culture in place, you'll be wasting your money and achieve nothing for your employees.
So what's my point here?
Well, it's the same with anything you do in business, you need a plan. You must consider 'what is the problem you're trying to solve and what does a good outcome look like?' Map it all out, you'll probably need to approach it in stages and calculate what resources/budget you have available or need. Firstly, understand the culture you are working with, especially when it comes to health. Do people talk openly about their health or feelings, or do they like to keep themselves to themselves? Do the leadership team talk about their health and how they are feeling to employees or drive any health initiatives? If the answer to all those questions is no, then this is the first thing you need to address in your plan. It's about starting the conversation, raising awareness and creating a culture where people feel comfortable talking about their health/mental health. There are many ways to do this; you could bring professionals in to help or you may have someone within your organisation who is willing to speak up and that would be even better.
Once you have raised awareness and got people talking, that's when you need to think about having support in place. This could be through employee assistance programs, third parties or through mental health first aiders. I would recommend you consider training your people managers, rather than just volunteers.
And of course, if you need help with this process, check out the services we offer and do not hesitate to contact us at Get Mentally Healthy.
Now you've started, I'm confident you'll get a positive response from your employees, with lots of ideas, volunteers, and support to keep everyone engaged.
So, go on, start the conversation!
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