Oak Team Talk: Mental Health in the Workplace

With 12% of all sick leave being attributed to mental health problems such as stress and anxiety, it’s clear more needs to be done to help employees struggling with their mental health. As May marks Mental Health Awareness Month, our PR Strategist Emma Williamson discusses how more can be done to remove the stigma surrounding mental health in the workplace.

1. Do you think there is a taboo surrounding mental health in the workplace?

Although it’s improving, I still think there’s a huge stigma surrounding mental health in the workplace. I think the majority of people still have the understanding that mental and emotional health isn’t taken as seriously as physical health. People also may feel like they’re not able to come forward as it can be seen as a sign of weakness and if they admit to having issues including work-related stress that they won’t be able to progress in their careers.

2. What do you think businesses can do to encourage employees to talk more openly about their mental health?

I think there needs to be more education for employers and employees so people are more aware and start to prioritise the issue. I think businesses also need to make sure that people are aware that mental health is taken just as seriously as physical health and invite open discussions around it. Mental health first aid training is available which gives you an in-depth understanding of mental health and the factors that can affect wellbeing, but also the practical skills to spot the triggers and signs of mental health issues and the confidence to step in, reassure and support a person in distress. It’s no secret that this past year has definitely taken a toll on our mental health which is why I think this will be more important than ever once people start to return to work.

3. Do you think your mental health has been affected during the pandemic and working from home? 

When we first went into a lockdown I lived alone and it affected me mentally. Before the pandemic, I never minded living alone because I interacted with so many people during the day but when that was taken away so quickly it was a shock to the system and I struggled. I think not having that interaction in the workplace affected my confidence and at the start, I would always feel guilty for being away from my desk, even if it was for a short break or to make a drink!

4. What has particularly helped your mental health over the past year? 

I moved in with a friend which has helped a lot, we’re social creatures and not meant to spend that much time alone. As soon as I started to have more interactions, the better I felt. The house we moved into also has a garden which was a huge bonus. Getting outside for walks and exercising has also really helped. I also started gratitude journaling which has made me feel more positive and confident. If I’m feeling overwhelmed, I move away from my desk and do something that will take my mind off it, even if it’s just watering the plants. Don’t feel guilty for taking a break!

5. 89% of Brits think it's important for their mental health to stay connected with others, do you agree with this? 

Absolutely. As I said earlier, we’re social creatures and not meant to spend that much time alone. Working from home can be isolating so you need to stay as connected as possible. Now lockdown restrictions have eased, we can spend more time with family and friends. But it’s also important to stay connected and engaged with your workplace.

6. Right now there are a lot of conversations about the future of work, do you think a hybrid working structure could be the key to better employee mental health? 

I think businesses should give people the choice. My work/life balance has improved a lot since working from home but I do miss the social aspect so a hybrid structure for me personally, would be ideal.