As part of MHAW, I was honoured to be asked to share my views, personal experience and advice on normalising talking about our own Mental Health.
“What are some common misconceptions about mental health that you've encountered, and how can we address them?”
Lots! That 'mental health' the term in itself can be seen as a sign of 'weakness' and also more of a 'feminine' trait. I have found this to be particularly with the older generation "oh, I don't like to air my dirty washing in public!".
“Can you share personal experiences or stories about overcoming mental health challenges, and what lessons can others learn from them?”
Yes. I suffer from anxiety and am not shy to share that I have several tools to support me managing this, medication being one of these.
At my lowest point, I would cry on my way into work, sit in my car once I'd parked up physically shaking about the thought of having to walk in and be 'normal'. I felt sick, I felt like a loser and what I remember most vividly is that thinking this would always be how things would be and something was wrong with me.
I was so fortunate with the support I had. First off, a hugely supportive boyfriend (now husband) who stood by me through all of the highs and lows from the very outset, even when neither of us knew what on earth was going on with me (after all - I was really happy - the irony!).
Secondly, a super understanding, empathetic and practical boss. I still remember being on the phone to her in tears about a particular piece of work and she (gently) ordered me to close my laptop, go for a walk and not think about work and that she'd call me tomorrow. I even 'resigned' at one point though, thankfully, she didn't 'accept' and instead worked with me to provide me the support I needed at that time. I will be forever grateful for this.
Friends and family were also a great support though as a I reflect back, at my lowest, I had huge social anxiety so it must have been difficult for them as I wasn't letting them in so to speak.
“What lessons would you like others to be able to take from your story?”
Each person is unique so I'm not suggesting what worked for me will work for others, though my number one piece of advice would be to know that you are NOT alone. Seek support, whether that be from a partner, a friend, a GP, an employer or a 3rd party organisation - there are people who can and WANT to support you.
The second thing would be that, like anything, when you're 'in it', it can feel as though this is you life and how things will always be. It CAN change, not overnight but have faith and above all be KIND to yourself.
“What are some practical tips for maintaining good mental health in today's fast-paced digital world?”
Self-discipline with screen time - even things like turning off notifications in the evening or leaving your phone in another room can make a difference. Ensuring you have a balance with things that don't involve a screen whether it be a walk, some form of exercise or meeting with friends, it can be all too easy to get to the end of the day and realise you've not moved (other than to your fridge and back) or spoken to anyone that wasn't on screen. Get into the 3D world!
“Are there any cultural or societal factors that influence the way mental health is perceived and treated?”
Yes - I think the multi-generational society we have with people living longer, the vast differences in what these generations have experienced / expect etc can both help and hinder. Help, in that generations at the younger end are 'typically' more comfortable to talk about mental health and 'hinder' in a way that (some) of the older generations can see this as a bit 'silly' and "in my day, we just had to get on with it".
Of course, there are different 'norms' across cultures and whilst we must always approach different cultures / traditions / norms with the utmost respect, I think ensuring that mental health can be a part of all walks of life is where we want to get to. I certainly don't have the answer!
“What are some effective coping mechanisms you have found for dealing with stress, anxiety, or depression?”
· Sometimes a good cry!
· Running is a HUGE one for me and if I feel a little 'wobbly' my husband without doubt will ask "when did you last go for a run?"
· Talking
· Trying to be intentionally KIND to myself, remind myself it will pass
· Writing things down
“How can we create a more inclusive and supportive community for individuals with mental health concerns?”
By making it the norm. If we have a broken leg or a chest infection, we won't think twice about telling people that. If we're experiencing a period of anxiety / depression etc - typically - we either won't say anything or we might make an excuse; or (if we're feeling brave) perhaps say something along the lines of "I've got some personal things going on right now".
I think we need to be more courageous, be more human and not feel 'ashamed' or 'embarrassed'.
“What are some common stressors in the workplace, and how can individuals effectively manage them to maintain good mental health?”
Politics, micro-managers, people who are naturally 'prover pleasers'.
“Can you share tips for setting boundaries between work and personal life to promote better mental well-being?”
Yes. Setting some.
Sitting down and thinking about what is right for YOU, right now.
Whether you're early into your career, near retirement or somewhere in the middle; whether you're the CEO or in your first role out of school; whether you're male, female or don't recognise as a fixed gender; whether you're a parent, carer or have no dependents - we ALL need boundaries. We SHOULD ALL HAVE boundaries.
I think the key is being clear on these, having self-discipline (they are yours - not anyone else’s) and DON'T apologise for them!
I think another key piece is knowing that it's ok for them to change - be fluid and flexible but in a way that works for YOU.
“How can managers/leaders support the mental health needs of their team members, especially during challenging times or periods of high stress?”
· Role modelling
· Talking
· More talking
· Asking 'are you ok?' and MEANING it
· Creating time and space
· Being there
Essentially, being Kind. Being a human first.
“What resources or tools do you recommend for those seeking help with mental health issues?”
Seek help. If you feel overwhelmed then your GP is a great starting point or, if that feels too much, www.mind.org are a wonderful organisation and can support signposting. Taking the first step can be the hardest but remember that you ARE worth it and support is there.
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