While the mental health crisis the world currently faces might not be new. It has never been more important to deal with it, nor have our capabilities been greater.
After almost two years of unrelenting changes and challenges throughout the pandemic. Many organizations are starting to actively address employee mental health and wellbeing in the workplace. But despite the positive change, there is still more to do.
With millions of people being affected by mental illness every year, it’s important to address this issue and talk about mental health.
Approximately 1 in 7 adults, experience some form of mental illness in a given year. Over the years, mental illness has been difficult to discuss openly and many people view mental health negatively. With these issues becoming increasingly prevalent, it’s imperative that we move mental health to the forefront of conversation topics. As well as having transparent discussions about how we are truly feeling.
Take, for example, the situation at work. Mental health at the workplace is declining, which is having far-reaching implications — from a person’s well-being through to the cost of absenteeism, loss of productivity, and staff turnover for the business.
When it comes to improving mental health at work, employers must first understand the tools, services, and support employees need, and then take steps to provide them. Getting employees to guide and inform your decisions can help to create open conversations about mental health in the workplace.
Why Start Talking About Mental Illness
- Remove the Stigma – By talking about mental illness on a more regular basis, we as a society will hopefully unveil the false notions that plague this topic. When these myths are debunked, it should help remove the stigma surrounding mental health.
- Promote Positive Mental Health – Of the many reasons why we need to talk about mental health, this is arguably the most important. Because mental health is so taboo, too many people are not getting the treatment they need. In turn, their poor mental health could lead to suicide.
- Mental Health Disorders are Growing – The prevalence of some mental health disorders has risen in the past few decades. As more people are affected by these issues, it just proves that you are no longer alone in your struggles and talking about mental health should be more acceptable.
When it comes to mental health and well-being, there is no one-size-fits-all. The challenge and solution will be different for every country, industry, company, and individual. That’s why in order to help manage and improve mental health, we must first understand what truly matters to them
How To Start Talking About Mental Illness
Talking about your mental health is important, but it can be difficult to open up. If you are struggling to talk about your mental health, we have a few tips.
- Write a letter if you are afraid to talk face-to-face.
- Talk to someone who doesn’t know you such as a therapist or psychologist if you don’t feel comfortable talking to a loved one.
- Start by journaling and then transition to speaking.
- Practice speaking in the mirror before you talk to someone if you are struggling to do so.
- Remember that you will probably feel a great sense of relief after talking with someone.
- Remember that you are not alone.
As a community we must do more to help our loved ones by supporting them through the dark days and talking about their mental health will spark the initial action. With suicide rates increasing, we must come together and find positive ways to involve ourselves in the conversation and ultimately get our loved ones the help they need before it’s too late.