Time to Talk Day 2019

7th February 2019

Around 1 in 4 people will experience mental health every year. Half of these people say that the associated isolation and shame is worse than the condition itself.

“We need to stop people feeling as if they need to hide, and we need to make sure anyone with any responsibly for others at work knows that to do” The Duke of Cambridge.

Time to talk day is about breaking down the stereotypes and removing the stigma around mental health. Talking openly about different areas of your life, work, family, hobbies can help build relationships and aid recovery for people that might be struggling.

Always ask a friend or colleague twice how they are – ‘How are you?’ ‘I’m ok, thanks’ ‘Are you really ok?’ ‘well….’ Sometimes we say we’re fine when we’re not.

5 simple steps when someone talks to you about their mental health

  • Take it seriously
  • Listen and reflect
  • Ask questions
  • Don’t try and fix it
  • Build your knowledge

Charities such as mind offer information and support for both people that may be struggling with their mental health and a person of responsibility in the workplace that needs to further their understanding on dealing with mental health.

The UK Office for national statistics stated that over 11 million working days per year are lost to mental health. Cause factors including workload, family relationships, management style and relationships at work.

There are many ways that you can enhance the atmosphere in the workplace such as encouraging all employees to take their lunch break and leave the office to go outside and have a change of environment.

By offering all employees access to an employee assisted programme, as part of an employee benefits package, it will encourage employees to speak out about their mental wellness and provide options, support and advice when needed.

As a specialised employee benefits broker BDHL offers a broad range of methods to enhance your workforce with a bespoke package to motivate and retain employees whilst ensuring the employer has access to the most competitive options available on the market.

Call a friendly member of the bdhl today to discuss on 01892 891 900 or email enquiries@bdhl.co.uk