How to Raise Awareness Around Mental Health
How to Raise Awareness Around Mental Health
World Mental Health Day is on 10 October, and this year’s theme focuses on mental health being a “universal human right”. So, how can you raise awareness around mental health at work and in your personal relationships? We look at a few ways you can provide support to those who might be suffering or experiencing difficulties.
“Around 1 in 6 adults experienced moderate to severe depressive symptoms
(Office for National Statistics – Autumn 2022)
Spotting the signs
For various reasons, including the rising cost of living and the pandemic, there has been an increase in people experiencing mental health problems. When someone is struggling with their mental health, they may try to conceal their feelings. This can make it harder for them to get the help they need, so it’s important you know how to spot the signs.
Men are typically less likely to communicate how they feel, which is sadly why the suicide rate is higher for this gender. According to the Office for National Statistics, the suicide rate is 15.8 out of 100,000 for men, compared to 5.5 per 100,000 for women.
We have listed a few signs below to help you spot someone who might be struggling with their mental health:
Mood swings, low mood or self-esteem.
Appearing anxious, irritable or more angry than usual.
Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol or substance abuse.
Withdrawing socially or behaving out of character.
Unable to concentrate, tired or forgetful.
Eating more or less than usual.
When people start to lose interest in the things they once enjoyed, this is also a sign that something could be wrong.
Helping someone with their mental health
If you are concerned about someone, approach them gently and let them know you are available to listen. Encourage them to talk about their feelings or to seek help from their GP. If they do not feel comfortable talking to you or their doctor, signpost them to a suitable support organisation.
Below are a few organisations that can provide help:
· Samaritans - www.samaritans.org
· Together - www.together-uk.org
· Mind - www.mind.org.uk
If you’re an employer, try to create an open workplace where employees feel able to speak to line managers about mental health issues. Allow employees to attend therapy sessions and keep in regular contact with anyone off on long-term sickness due to their mental health.
Mental Health First Aider
If you’re an employer, there is a relatively new branch of first aid training, which focuses on mental health. An employee can be trained as a Mental Health First Aider to spot the signs when someone needs help. They cannot diagnose a condition, but they can identify when someone is at risk of being a danger to themselves and direct staff to professional support.
The Hiring Strategies team believe strongly in helping those who are suffering with mental health. Whether this is one of our own team, a worker or a member of our family, we are always here to listen and to provide support in the best way we can.
If you’re looking for a job or a new member of staff, why not book a call with one of our consultants? Email us or send us your CV: enquiries@hsl1uk.com. Hiring Strategies Ltd recruits for major companies across the Midlands - see our vacancies…