I have just returned from a whirlwind trip to see my dad (now 87!) in Cape Town and was fortunate enough to spend time with a fellow mental health advocate. It was fascinating talking to him about what is happening in South Africa in terms of mental health awareness and how much work is starting to be done in Companies to support their employees’ mental wellbeing.
I must say, sitting opposite him telling him about the initiatives, projects, campaigns and events taking place in the UK made me so proud. There was so much to talk about what we are doing here to support and de-stigmatise mental health. In particular, projects such as The Leaderboard (https://inside-out.org/) the Princes’ Heads Together campaign (https://www.headstogether.org.uk/) and the incredible work of campaigners like Geoff McDonald with the Minds@Work Movement (https://www.mindsatworkmovement.com/ ) and charities and businesses.
If you haven’t already joined the force of change that is taking place in the UK - to start the conversation about mental health - do it today!
All it takes is caring about yourself and others; asking ‘how are you’ and really listening and being there to support someone who is struggling.
We work with Companies to support them with training and development in this area, so if you’re looking for ideas on what to do - get in touch with us.
Perhaps consider sending some of your staff on a Mental Health First Aid course to gain knowledge and skills to support your organisations wellbeing. Or give all of your staff a ‘Wellbeing Check-Up’?
The tidal wave of change has started and I’m thrilled to be part of the journey. Hope you’ll join us too.
