Make mental health and wellbeing for all a global priority
The overall objective of World Mental Health Day is to raise awareness of mental health issues around the world and to mobilise efforts in support of mental health.
The green ribbon is the international symbol of mental health awareness. Wear a green ribbon to show colleagues, loved ones or simply those you walk past that you care about their mental health.
Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social wellbeing. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make healthy choices. Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood.
The Day provides an opportunity for all stakeholders working on mental health issues to talk about their work, and what more needs to be done to make mental health care a reality for people worldwide.
“A negative working environment, on the other hand, may lead to physical and mental health problems, harmful use of substances or alcohol, absenteeism and lost productivity.”
But let’s start in the workplace - during our adult lives, a large proportion of our time is spent at work. Our experience in the workplace is one of the factors determining our overall wellbeing. Employers and managers who put in place workplace initiatives to promote mental health and to support employees who have mental disorders see gains not only in the health of their employees but also in their productivity at work. A negative working environment, on the other hand, may lead to physical and mental health problems, harmful use of substances or alcohol, absenteeism and lost productivity.
How do you celebrate World Mental Health Day at Work?
6 Workplace Activities for World Mental Health Day
Communicate about mental health
Talk about mental health at work
Practise gratitude for positive mental health
Hold a mental health fundraiser at work
Ensure management have an open-door policy around mental health
Consider workplace mental health training and support
Only we can make this happen one step at a time…use your place of work to help those around you understand mental health and wellbeing…this is your opportunity to shine – wear your green ribbon.
Book a demo to find out how we can help your staff thrive.
Alexandra Lichtenfeld - a workplace wellbeing specialist for 87% and business mentor who works with business owners, senior management teams and entrepreneurs changing the face of employee wellbeing, getting the best out of their business practices and employees.