Staff take part in Mental Health Awareness Training

On Monday morning we were delighted to welcome Mollie, from the Individual Placement and Employment Support Team for Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust.  

The support team help those experiencing mental health conditions back into employment, as well as supporting local employers, like us,
to learn more about Mental Health and Wellbeing support in the workplace.  

Mollie delivered a very informative session with engaging, mini games and prize-winning quizzes.  

As a group we were reminded of:  

What is mental health?  

Who has mental health?  

In addition to learning in depth the most common mental health conditions, what they are and who they can affect, as well as how to spot the early signs and how to help.  

So, what is mental health?  

Mental health is defined as a state of well-being in which every individual realises his or her own potential- mental health can be both positive and negative- and can affect anyone at any time. Statistics say 1 in 4 people will experience mental health conditions at some point in their lifetime, and 1 in 6.8 people will experience poor mental health at work. Some of the most common mental health conditions include depression, anxiety and stress.  

Stress is a big one to be aware of particularly in the workplace setting. In the past year 74% of people have felt so stressed they have felt
unable to cope or overwhelmed, as well as 1 in 5 people admitting to taking a sick day due to stress but 90% citing another reason.  

These statistics are high, we listened insightfully to Mollie who talked through stress, as well as some other conditions and the physical
effects it can have on our bodies.  

Mental Health is important as it allows people to realise their full potential and make meaningful contributions to their communities. It is
important in the workplace because a happier workforce = a more productive workforce, and a positive, inclusive culture towards mental wellbeing benefits both the individual and the organisation.  

If you or someone you know is experiencing negative mental health, we want you to know you are not alone. 

Here are some websites and numbers you may find helpful: 

https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/mental-health-services/ 

https://www.samaritans.org/ 

https://www.oxfordshiremind.org.uk/help/ 

Samaritans 24/7: 116 123 

National Suicide Prevention line: 0800 689 5652 

If it is urgent or you are in a life-threatening situation, call 999.