Blog

Good mental health in the workplace has become increasingly important to me, not only on a personal level but also professionally too, as Fivium’s People Team leader. Breaking down the stigma around mental health is so important to us, so we’re proud to champion all efforts being made more widely to effect this.

Last year, we decided to invest in training two Mental Health First Aiders to help us identify symptoms and to provide effective support and guidance to those in need. Alongside this we pledged to provide a workplace that is free from the stigmas about mental health - our team are actively encouraged to discuss mental health topics at regular Tea and Talk sessions, we discuss it as part of both our monthly 121s and bi-annual Performance Reviews and we openly advocate that it’s OK not to be OK. We lead from the top and openly discuss our own personal experiences and positive coping strategies to show our team that not only are they not alone but that things can, and will, get better.

As part of our Wellbeing Programme we help our team to de-stress and build resilience through daily mindfulness sessions, office massages and regular Tea and Talk get togethers. Alongside our Mental Health First Aiders, we also have three Wellbeing Ambassadors plus three very engaged and supportive Directors working together to deliver this programme.

Now more so than ever, with the heightened pressure on everyone’s mental health due to the imposed lockdown, feelings of isolation and loneliness are widespread. The current situation is leading to increased anxiety and low moods, so we need to ensure we are talking about how we are feeling, recognising when these become overwhelming and provide support to our team to help them to regain and retain good mental health. The first step in the process for us, is to act with genuine care and compassion, so I was very appreciative that the theme of this year’s Mental Health Awareness week is #kindness. So as this week draws to a close, remember, if you can be anything in this world, be kind (and not just this week, but all year round)

Take care, stay safe and good mental health to you and yours.

#mentalhealthawarenessweek #stopthestigma #kindnessmatters #bekind #mentalhealthintheworkplace