Workplaces that foster openness and inclusivity around mental health and invest in awareness and skills training are more successful in creating environments where employees feel safe discussing the pressures they experience. By prioritizing mental health, these organizations not only promote well-being but also build a supportive culture that encourages honest conversations and proactive management of mental health challenges. This approach helps reduce stigma, enhances employee morale, and ultimately contributes to a more resilient and productive workforce.
According to the Mental health Foundation 74% of UK adults have felt so stressed at some point over the last year they felt overwhelmed or unable to cope.
Millions of us around the UK are experiencing high levels of stress and it is damaging our health. Stress is one of the great public health challenges of our time, but it still isn’t being taken as seriously as physical health concerns.
Stress is a significant factor in mental health problems including anxiety and depression. It is also linked to physical health problems like heart disease, problems with our immune system, insomnia, and digestive problems. Individually we need to understand what is causing us personal stress and learn what steps we can take to reduce it for ourselves and those around us. (Stress Awareness Society)
Stress is primarily a physical response. When stressed, the body thinks it is under attack and switches to ‘fight or flight’ mode, releasing a complex mix of hormones and chemicals such as adrenaline, cortisol and norepinephrine to prepare the body for physical action. This causes a number of reactions, from blood being diverted to muscles to shutting down unnecessary bodily functions such as digestion.
Fight
Flight
Freeze
Brain Fog
Poor Judgement
Concentration
Panic
Anxiety
Overwhelmed
High Blood Pressure
Rapid heart rate
Aches & Pains
Demotivated
Sleeping too much/little
Isolation
Talk to others, friends, family members, colleagues. Talking helps to get it out there and helps people to understand about you
Remember your coping strategies. Meditation, switching of social media before bedtime and practicing your sleep routine
Eat and drink well, go for a walk or exercise.
Learn to say no. It is one thing to help you not become overladed. It really is ok to say no and look after yourself.
Read and learn about what Stress can do to you so you have a better understanding of its effects, this will help with your own self-resilience.
Practice whatever mindfulness you and adapt it for life
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Practical solutions for managing stress at work are personal and will vary from individual to individual. Since our mental health is unique, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach.
Engaging in conversations about mental health, particularly with line managers, can be instrumental in supporting mental well-being at work. A structured conversation centered around a wellness action plan—featuring open questions about what helps you stay well at work—can facilitate an understanding between manager and employee. This dialogue helps both parties agree on what works best for the individual and how these strategies can be integrated into their role and workplace environment.
For those who may prefer not to speak with their line manager, having trained experts in listening and signposting, such as Mental Health First Aiders, can provide an alternative resource. These MHFAiders® can ensure that everyone in the workplace has someone to talk to, whenever and wherever they need support.
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