It is Mental Health Awareness week on 18th May. Research and reports show approximately one in four people in the are experiencing or will experience mental health problems every year. The aim of mental health awareness week is to encourage people to talk about mental health and reduce the stigma that stops people from asking for help. Asking for help is one of the first steps. Employers have a key role to play in mental health awareness; you have a duty of care so you have a key role to play.
Mental health during Coronavirus Pandemic
Mental health concerns and awareness exists in everyday life and affects people in different ways. In the current time; when we all come together to fight the coronavirus pandemic; now is the time for all companies to be more vigilant about how the pandemic is affecting their employees.
Despite mental health and well being awareness and support being widely publicised and available; it continues to be a taboo subject for many. Many employees still don’t, or won’t, admit to having mental health problems and seek support.
Furlough
During the coronavirus pandemic; many employees are on furlough; dealing with changes to their work and home life; working from home; home learning (really home schooling but we’re not to call it that!), uncertainty of the future; financial strains coupled with companies facing uncertainty of their future survival; it is understandable obvious signs can be missed. However, employers cannot escape their responsibilities; they have a duty of care to all employees - now more than ever. Simple steps such as calling a colleague to see how they are; if an employee’s productivity levels are low, take time to consider why this is the case – could it be they are struggling; have open and honest dialogue with employees; encourage employees to talk and seek support. Small steps, consideration, kindness can transform a situation and the persons home and working life.
Helping and supporting others not only reduces their stress and improves emotional well being; but is good for your own mental health and well being.
At Quest we can support and guide you in all employee relations and HR matters; just give us a call on 01455852028.
