World Mental Health Day 2022
At Valentine Occupational Health, we are proud to align ourselves with World Mental Health Day 2022 and the values that it inspires. Those of us working in the field of occupational health recognise the challenge and responsibility we have, to deliver the highest quality of mental health care to those in need of it.
Alongside delivering on improvements to your staff’s physical wellbeing, Valentine OH has the benefit of working with those trained in mental health, so we can provide for the mental wellbeing for those living with psychological and mental health problems.
Making Mental Health a Priority
This year’s World Mental Health Day is centred around making mental health and wellbeing a global priority for all who need it the most. It’s difficult to think of a theme more suitable to this year. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, an estimated one in eight people were living with a mental disorder, with anxiety and depression being the most common. COVID-19 meant that many of us struggled alone, making the mental heath of those affected much worse. Not only that but it also increased the rise of such issues by 25% during the first year of the pandemic.
Since the height of the pandemic, the world has also been impacted by social and economic issues, which have seriously threatened the potential of an improved wellbeing for much of the UK population, as we struggle with financial anxieties and physical wellbeing when we struggle to heat our homes.
Valentine Occupational Health recognises the importance of deepening the importance we give to mental health, and the focus and engagement we need committed by individuals and organisations, across all sectors. By working together, we can offer an accessible and quality service and support to our people.
Mental Health Stigma
Whilst the importance of mental is rightfully increasing, the stigma and discrimination of seeking proper mental support continues to be an obstacle to individuals receiving the right care. World Mental Health Day is an opportunity to increasing awareness to mental health, so we can direct individuals to the right support networks where their mental health is supported and protected.
Through our work with Life & Progress, Valentine OH offers an Employment Assistance Program (EAP) designed to uplift the mental health of your people. By offering confidential support, we can support your people with mental health support to those who need it most.
Mental Health Tips
2022 has been a tough year for us all and continues to be so, but there are still many ways we can improve our mental health through small steps:
Stay Connected
A robust support network is crucial in ensuring we’re supported when it comes to our daily struggles. Although COVID-19 meant that these support networks were strained, it’s important to make clear that you’re still there for your loved ones, and that they’re there for you. Even if you don’t feel like you need to be checked up on, it can do a world of good to someone who might need it.
Open Up
It’s hard to be vulnerable, but if you ever feel concerned, anxious or just need someone to talk to, it’s important we show our feelings and talk to someone when we need to. If our mental health is taking a dive, it’s critical we reach out and begin that conversation.
Be Active
It’s been proven that maintaining a proper physical routine can work wonders for our mental health. It can boost confidence, lower anxiety and can have huge improvements on our mood. Even by just taking a walk outside, it’ll do a world of good for our mental and physical wellbeing.
Avoid ‘Doomscrolling’
Considering modern issues in our country and around the world, it’s easy to get caught up in the negativity. Whether it’s international conflicts or domestic worries, it’s important we do the correct research and don’t take gossip and speculation at face value. It’s important to base our guidance on solid information and remember to take a step back when you need to.
Contact Us
If you’re struggling with your mental health, it’s important to tell someone. Help and support is always available, and you don’t have to struggle in silence. Speak to friends and family and tell them what’s going on. There is no right way to start the conversation, starting it all is what’s important.
To help cope, try not thinking about the future, just focus on getting through the day, or through the hour or even through the next five minutes. Find a safe place and be around people who can support you, or alternatively find something you enjoy, like taking time with a pet.
There is always help available
If you or someone you know is struggling, you can speak in confidence to supporting charities that can help:
- Samaritans – Call 116 123
- CALM – Call 0800 58 58 58
- Papyrus – Call 0800 068 41 41
Alternatively, of you need to contact the Valentine team to discuss any mental health concerns about your team you may have, you can contact us at:
0800 020 9913 | service@valentineoh.co.uk
