The first step is a single word
The power of talking about mental health at work

In a world where the hustle and bustle often drown out our quiet calls for help, there exists a day that welcomes us to pause, listen, and speak from the heart. Time to Talk Day, observed annually on the first Thursday in February, is not just a date in the diary; it's an important reminder that every conversation about mental health matters.

Imagine a world where every whispered worry and silent struggle is met with understanding and compassion. Time to Talk Day is a symbol of this hope, paving the way towards a society where mental health is openly discussed without fear or stigma. It's a day that encourages us to break through the silence and embrace the healing power of conversation.

The power of talking

Conversations about mental health can provide comfort and a sense of connection. Picture yourself sitting in a café, chatting with a friend – as you share your thoughts and feelings, you might feel a weight lift off your shoulders. This is the power of conversation. It can help to heal, offer comfort, and bring people closer together.

Starting a conversation about mental health can feel like stepping into uncharted territory, but it doesn't have to be daunting. Here are a few tips that have helped me navigate this journey:

• Ask open-ended questions: Instead of “Are you ok?”, try “How have things been for you lately?” or “What’s been on your mind?”. These questions open the door to deeper, more meaningful conversations.
  
  
• Listen without judgment: Align to the trend “We listen but do not judge”. In conversations, truly listen to hear, instead of listening to respond, and resist the urge to jump in with solutions. Sometimes, just listening is the best support you can offer.
  
  
• Be patient: Not everyone is ready to share right away, and that’s ok. The fact that you’ve shown you care shows them that you’re a safe place, and may make it easier for them to open up in the future. 

Mental health by numbers

Mental health issues are more common than many people realise. In the UK, approximately one in four people will experience a mental health problem each year. This statistic underscores the importance of creating an environment where people feel safe to discuss their mental health without fear of judgment.

In the workplace, the impact of mental health is significant. Mental health problems are estimated to cost the UK economy £110 billion annually. This highlights the need for employers to promote a supportive environment where employees can talk openly about their mental health.

Almost 20 million adults never speak about mental health. But when we talk about mental health, we not only help ourselves but also those around us, creating a ripple effect that can lead to a more supportive and understanding community.

Supporting mental health in the workplace

In my role as HR Director at Revere, I believe it's crucial for businesses like ours to take proactive steps to support mental health in the workplace. Here are a few strategies that we have implemented that can make a difference:

• Provide training: Equip managers and employees with the skills to recognise and respond to mental health issues. Training can help create a culture of understanding and support.
  
  
• Promote work-life balance: Encourage employees to take breaks, use their holiday, and maintain a healthy work-life balance. At Revere we also operate a charter called Respect@Revere which promotes the importance of respecting each other’s time and boundaries. This can help reduce stress and prevent burnout.
  
  
• Offer resources and signpost effectively: Make sure employees know about the mental health resources available to them, such as a Wellness Action Plan, Mental Health First Aiders, or services that can be accessed through their Private Healthcare provider. 

I am proud of the open culture we have created at Revere, a culture of continuous feedback and collaborative working that ensures a safe space for all. 

For the Leadership team, it’s never a case of “well, we can tick culture off the list” – it is a key priority for us, and something that we are always looking to evolve and improve upon. Having a culture of transparency and safety is a never-ending journey, and being able to openly talk about mental health is a big part of that journey. 

Time to Talk Day: A call to action

Time to Talk Day is a powerful reminder that all discussions about mental health have value. By breaking the silence and allowing for open, supportive dialogues, we can create a world where mental health is treated with the importance it deserves. 

If you want to talk more about anything I’ve covered above, then feel free to send me a message.