Every year on October 10th, we observe World Mental Health Day, a time to reflect on global mental health challenges and consider how we can foster well-being for all. This year’s theme, ’workplace mental health,’ is especially significant for healthcare professionals. In an environment that demands resilience and dedication, the mental health of those working in healthcare is often overlooked. However, the need to prioritise our wellbeing – and that of our colleagues – is more urgent than ever.

Creating a culture that prioritises mental health in the workplace is essential, not only for our own well-being but also for the safety and effectiveness of the care we provide.

 

Fostering a Culture of Openness

Healthcare leaders must model vulnerability and encourage open dialogue about mental health. Regularly addressing mental health during team meetings, normalising conversations about stress, and providing confidential spaces for peer support can significantly reduce stigma. Additionally, promoting mental health awareness and education among staff can make it easier for employees to ask for help without fear of judgment.

 

Institutional Support

Beyond creating an open environment, healthcare organisations should invest in tangible resources to support mental health:

  • Access to a mental health service: Ensure employees have easy access to professional support when needed.
  • Flexible scheduling: Allow for adaptable work hours to accommodate personal well-being.
  • Peer support programmes: Establish initiatives that connect staff with trained peers for shared experiences and guidance.

By implementing these resources, organisations can create a more supportive atmosphere that prioritises mental health.

 

Tips for improving Mental Health

Express your feelings: Talking about emotions at work can be challenging, but sharing how you feel with a trusted colleague or manager can be beneficial. Take advantage of check-ins during supervision or team meetings to express yourself. Find someone  you feel comfortable with who can offer support.

Nurture your relationships: Strong relationships are vital for mental well-being, especially in a work environment. A supportive team can greatly impact your mental health at work. It’s important to maintain friendships and family connections, even when work gets busy. Strive for a healthy work-life balance.

Take breaks: Stepping away from work, even briefly, can boost your mental health. It could be a five-minute pause, listening to a podcast during your commute, taking a proper lunch break, or spending a weekend exploring new places. A change of scenery, try to schedule tasks you excel at between more challenging ones to balance your workload and reduce stress.

Engage in activities you enjoy: Focusing on a hobby, like gardening or solving puzzles, can provide a mental break and lift your mood. At work, try to schedule tasks you excel at between more challenging ones to balance your workload and reduce stress.

Seek support when needed: Your employer may offer an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), which is confidential and free to use without notifying your workplace. Additionally, explore occupational health resources through your manager or HR department.

 

Getting help and advice

The Royal College of Nursing has advice and support for their members whether you work for the NHS, an independent health and social care employer, or as an agency worker. https://www.rcn.org.uk/get-help

NHS England have produced a list of resources that may be beneficial for doctors seeking support and advice. https://www.england.nhs.uk/south-east/wp-content/uploads/sites/45/2022/05/Sources-of-support-SE-updated-10.06.21.pdf

The mental health foundation has a vast number of resources that may be useful regarding mental health in the workplace. https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/publications/how-support-mental-health-work https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/get-help