A Gentle Reminder: We're All In This Together
Mental Health Week is a time to pause, reflect and extend a hand of support. It serves as a reminder that in our busy lives, filled with demands and expectations, we often overlook the importance of checking in with ourselves and those around us. Mental wellbeing is just as crucial as physical health, yet it frequently goes unnoticed.
In 2024, WA Mental Health Week encourages us to create more moments of genuine connection. Whether it’s a conversation over a coffee, a check in with a colleague or even just taking a moment to slow down and ask, “How are you really doing?”, each small act of care contributes to a larger culture of support and understanding.
Imagine feeling alone, overwhelmed, lost or just not quite yourself. Wouldn’t it be comforting to know that someone cared enough to ask how you’re doing? By taking the time to be curious about the wellbeing of our colleagues, friends and family, we create a safe space for them to share their experiences and emotions without fear of judgement.
But the impact goes far beyond just making someone feel noticed. Showing concern can be a lifeline, helping others feel less alone and more connected. It sends a powerful message – You matter and so does your wellbeing.
Mental health remains a critical issue in Western Australia and across the rest of the country. According to recent data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics, approximately 20% of Australians experience a mental health disorder each year. This is a confronting statistic, highlighting the widespread nature of mental health challenges that often go unnoticed or untreated. In WA specifically, these figures are even more concerning, with the state recording a 17% increase in mental health related hospitalisations in the past five years.
Mental Health Week is an opportunity to shine a light on these numbers and bring awareness to the impact that mental health has on our communities. The focus isn’t just on diagnosing or treating mental health conditions, but also on creating a proactive culture prioritising mental wellbeing before it comes to a crisis point.
So why is it so important for individual and organisations alike? Because untreated mental health issues impact more than the individual – they affect families, workplaces and the broader community. For businesses, poor mental health in the workforce can result in high absenteeism, a reduction in productivity and increased turnover of staff, costing the Australian economy billions of dollars annually.
By fostering a proactive approach, and supporting mental health initiatives, we can make a real difference. Each small action – from conversations to creating safe spaces – can help to turn the tide on this growing issue.
Mental health struggles aren’t always easy to spot. While some people may openly express their feelings, others might keep things hidden beneath the surface. It’s important to be observant and mindful of small changes in behaviour that might be brushed off. Here are a few signs to look out for:
These signs might not mean there’s a serious issue, but they are red flags that warrant a check in. Sometimes just letting someone know you’re there for them can make all the difference.
For many employees, the workplace is where they spend a majority of their time. This means organisations have an opportunity (and responsibility) to create a supportive environment promoting mental wellbeing. Mental health Week is the perfect time for team leaders to prioritise the mental health of their team. Here are a few ways workplaces can support these initiatives:
Encourage open dialogue by organising a Mental Health Check In event. This event should serve as a space for employees to share their thoughts and feelings. Having senior leadership participate and engage can help to reduce stigma and demonstrate that mental wellbeing is a priority.
Ensure employees know what resources are available to them, both internally and externally. If your company has an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), remind staff of its availability and encourage participation.
Stress and burnout are often aggravated by rigid schedules and high workloads. During Mental Health Week, consider offering some flexibility regarding work hours or remote work. This small change can have a large impact on the mental wellbeing of your team.
Holding workshops or training sessions can be an effective way to equip staff with the tools they need to manage stress, build resilience and support one another. Topics relevant to your teams needs should be chosen to ensure the sessions are valuable and worthwhile.
If your space allows for it, designate a quite space where employees can take a break, decompress and engage in calming activities like breathing exercises or meditation. Encouraging regular breaks can help to reduce the risks of burnout.
By taking these actions, workplaces can normalise conversations around mental health and create environments where employees feel supported year round.
Supporting others is crucial, but its equally as important to not forget about yourself in the process. Take some time to reflect on your own wellbeing and use this opportunity to engage in self-care activities that rejuvenate and energise you. Whether that’s taking a stroll in nature, practicing mindfulness or turning off your devices for a few hours – remember self-care isn’t selfish, it’s essential.
What we need to remember is that we’re all in this together. By being mindful of our own mental wellbeing and extending care to others, we create a more supportive and understanding environment. Mental Health Week is an opportunity to connect, care and remind each other that no one should face their struggles alone. Together, we can develop a culture of empathy and ensure mental health is a priority 52 weeks a year.
Let’s use this time to listen more, support unconditionally and remind each other that there are brighter days ahead, even when the dark clouds seem heavy.
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