This year's World Mental Health Day comes when life has changed considerably due to the COVID-19 pandemic. We have all had to adapt as we learn to live with the real impact of how we work, live, and communicate, along with the benefits and challenges it may bring.
It is more important than ever to be kind to ourselves, set aside time to look after ourselves, stay connected with others. For Mangers to stay connected with teams and colleagues to ensure support for their mental well-being while working in separate work bubbles and remotely. There are a lot of free resources and guidance available to support your mental well-being during this time:
British Sign Language Version
Pdf alternative:
Public Health England - Guidance for the public on the mental health and well-being aspects of coronavirus (COVID-19) Government advise of looking after your mental health and well-being during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. City Mental Health Alliance - Supporting colleagues Resources to help organisations support their colleagues, including how to manage remote teams in challenging times. Every Mind Matters - Coronavirus and well-being Ten tips and advice to maintain your well-being while staying at home. Mental Health At Work - Coronavirus, and isolation: supporting yourself and your colleagues Mental Health At Work has grouped resources to support one another's mental health through the outbreak and working remotely. Mind - Coronavirus and your well-being Practical advice for staying at home, taking care of your mental well-being. Rethink Mental Illness - Covid-19 and mental illness Online hub of practical support and information for people living with, or supporting people with mental illness. Samaritans - If you're worried about your mental health during the coronavirus outbreak Support and guidance for anyone worried about their mental health. Student Minds - Coronavirus resources Guidance for the university community on looking after your mental health, including ways you can support friends and family, guidance for those experiencing xenophobia and racism, and for those with ongoing mental health difficulties.
I am a qualified instructor to deliver the Mental Health First Aid course. MHFA teaches people the skills and confidence to recognise the signs and symptoms of common mental health issues and effectively guide a person towards the right support. Having a 10-minute chat is the first step on that journey. UK employees say they have experienced mental health issues at work, but less than half of that group felt confident to open up about it. We don't often talk about our mental health, so it might seem a little daunting to start a conversation about it, but it's important to remember you don't have to be an expert.