Mental health at work

With research showing that at least one in six workers experiences common mental health problems, it’s more important than ever to be aware of wellbeing in the workplace. Here, we speak to Anna Watson – a Mental Health First Aider at Essex County Council – who promotes positive mental health and supports colleagues in times of need…

What interested you in becoming a Mental Health First Aider (MHFA)?

My own personal experience with my sister inspired me to learn more. A few years ago I went through a really difficult journey with her and that experience opened my eyes to the fact that anyone could suffer with mental health problems. If I had the skills then that I have now, I know I would have been better equipped to deal with the situation. At the time I only really knew the stereotyped extreme mental health disorders, such as split personalities or severe depression, but there are so many shades in between. It was a sharp learning curve and very nearly ended in crisis, but I am pleased to say we both benefitted from the experience. Since then, I’ve learned so much more about positive mental health and wellbeing and I’m keen to share this learning and knowledge with others. 

What are some of the things you do as a MHFA?

During lockdown I started having virtual one to ones with lots of my colleagues – not from a work perspective, but just checking in with them to replace the informal chitchat we used to have when we were in the office. I took on an almost motherly role where I’d catch up with them and provide them with a place where they could discuss anxieties. I think we all needed a friendly face during the difficult and uncertain times. 

I also began sending regular ‘wellbeing updates’ to my team, which based on positive feedback escalated and is now emailed to more than 100 people within Essex County Council! It lets my colleagues know that support is out there. I also set challenges for people to get involved in, like going out and taking photographs of nature or getting more active. I’ve had some nice replies – people have said things like, “It's so nice to know somebody's there. Thank you so much.” I hope the emails also remind others to reach out to their colleagues and check in with them too, especially if they’re particularly quiet or absent, as we all have a part to play.

In addition, I make references to mental health in team meetings to remind my colleagues to think about their wellbeing. Often, it’s the obvious things like having a break, getting up and moving from your chair, making sure you take the time to eat and drink, getting plenty of sleep, going outside… I'm almost like your conscience! Sometimes it’s the little things that can really make a big difference to your day.

Do you think more mental health support is needed now that homeworking has become the norm?

Yes, definitely. I think for most of us working from home has become a way of life, which for some has resulted in positive changes with less commute, flexible working hours around childcare, dog walks or even putting the washing out on a nice day. However, the downside is that for many who do not have the luxury of an office or spare room, there is a daily reminder of work sat on the dining room table which can impact on family life.

Or, if you live alone, you might find you’re talking to people all the time in meetings, but it might not be very personal or provide you with a sense of belonging. Often no one is asking you how you are or how your day is, giving you an opportunity to let off a little steam! There’s a place for mental health first aiders to help with this.

What would you say to someone who is thinking about becoming a MHFA?

I’d say, go for it. You won’t necessarily have all the answers, but it’s about being there for someone at the right time, signposting them to the right support, or just listening. For me, knowing that I might have made a tiny difference to someone's day is really rewarding. Also, you learn a lot about yourself along the way. 

What do you do to look after your own mental wellbeing?

For me, walking and being amongst nature is my number one. I’ve got a nine-month-old puppy, Winnie, so getting out with her is a brilliant way to energise me and recharge the batteries. I love to just get away from it all and being in contact with nature is a powerful multi-sensory experience – the sounds of birds singing, the smell of freshly cut grass, or the feel of leaves, bark and the earth beneath us. It reminds me of my small place in the world. 

I think having good habits is important as well. I make sure that I don't sit on my phone before bed and that I have time to wind down, as well as making sure I have a balanced diet and a good night’s sleep.

Are there any tips you can give to someone who is struggling with their mental wellbeing at work?

It is important to remember that we all have mental health, the same as physical health, and that sometimes we need to do more to manage this to maintain a healthy and positive state of mind. Here are some tips...

Practice gratitude. Think about what you are grateful or thankful for, or to try and name one positive thing that has happened today. It doesn't have to be anything amazing – it could just be that you managed to tick something off your to-do list, or you spoke to a friend.

Have a break. It’s important to take time out to truly switch off from phones and screens and allow ourselves time to simply be. This can be for as long as short as you are able – even 10 minutes of fresh air can make a huge difference to your overall wellbeing. I am a huge advocate of the great outdoors, as it enables us to step outside the clutter of our own minds, relieving stress, anxiety or worry.  

Meet up with a colleague. If you’re missing in-person human contact, there's nothing to stop you from going into the office and meeting up for a real-life coffee or lunch – it’s really important to reconnect. Or, if you can’t make it into the office, book in a virtual cuppa with a colleague or call their mobile and walk and talk. This has several benefits – it’s a break from your screen, you’ll get some exercise, and the fresh air will reinvigorate you. Also, it’s sometimes it is easier to talk to someone about a problem or worry you may have without directly looking at them!

Have a daily ‘commute’. I find it hard going straight from finishing work into mum mode, as I’m missing the mental space to unwind on my journey home, so I might listen to some music and do a power walk around the block where I live. It helps me to feel rejuvenated when I walk back into the house, and I can be mum without feeling irritable or stressed.

Contact your MHFA. Finally, I would suggest having regular contact and building up a relationship with someone – maybe even a MHFA. I think sometimes people are a bit fearful that they’re going to be judged if they contact their MHFA but that’s what we’re here for – as I say to my colleagues, my virtual door is always open! And, most importantly, it’s a confidential conversation.