“Numbers and stats are fine, but they don’t inspire hearts and minds.
"Behind each of these numbers are real people with real stories. We need to be better at telling these stories in a respectful way that makes others realise the levels of support we can and do provide.”
Be more open
In a workplace context, this means embracing a culture of openness.
Encouraging leaders to speak out about their own mental health challenges to help reduce the stigma. Lloyds Bank’s #GetTheInsideOut campaign was highlighted recently by Lord Dennis Stevenson, speaking at an industry event.
The life insurance industry has yet to show its mettle in this regard apparently, although the charity Mind has worked closely with general insurer Hiscox to develop its WeMind network.
These initiatives are united in the view that change must come from the top and be integrated into whole of workplace culture.
There has to be a focus on the “bigger picture” to have the most effect, adds Debbie Kleiner, head of workplace happiness at PES.
For this reason, Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) England has been criticised in some quarters with regards to its Where’s your head at? campaign, which is felt to be too one-dimensional.
The campaign aims to get first aid regulations amended so that mental health, as well as physical health, first aid in the workplace is mandatory.
“MHFA has been criticised by some, in particular the Health and Safety Executive,” says Ms Kleiner. “However, it is only when it is seen as the solution to workplace wellbeing that I can see MHFA training as ‘not enough’.
“The stand out has been for companies to embrace this openness about mental health which helps break the stigma around it.
"Those brave enough to speak out as leaders have helped change the culture in their organisation and, coupled with line manager training, this is what has the most impact. Line managers are key to employees feeling supported in their workplace.”
The individual & self-awareness
By support, we do not just mean having the tools to help in place. The tools are great but getting people to use them is problematic. Support must also encompass helping individuals get better acquainted with their own needs. Only then will they seek out help.
Psychologist Fiona Murden, speaking as part of Vitality@Work podcastThe Mindful Workplace, commented that helping individuals improve their self-awareness is key.
“Individuals are often lacking self-awareness these days. Technology is creating more individualism.
"This leads to a lack of deep and meaningful connections: friends speak to friends via social media more than they do face-to-face.
