Make mental health and well-being a priority
IPS International Ltd
A South-East based Apprenticeship Training Provider, supporting employers to recruit/upskill their staff.
The World Health Organisation recognises World Mental Health Day on 10 October every year.
World Mental Health Day always comes with a theme and this year’s theme set by the World Federation for Mental Health, is ‘Make mental health and wellbeing for all a global priority’.
World Mental Health Day is also a chance to talk about mental health in general, how we need to look after it, and how important it is to talk about things and get help if you are struggling.
What is Mental Health?
Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make healthy choices.
Not sure if you or someone you know is living with mental health problems?
Everyone can have an off day – it’s normal, but if those types of feelings persist, don’t be afraid to ask for help. What signs should you look out for? Here are a few examples below:
? Lack of energy
? Excessive use of tobacco or alcohol
? Eating or sleeping too much or too little
? Feeling of numbness or unexplained aches
? Avoiding people and usual activities
? Loss of interest
? Feeling constantly on edge
? Short-tempered and argumentative
? Mood swings
? Hearing voices
? Pulling away from people and usual activities
? Considering harming yourself or someone else
? Unable to carry out simple daily tasks
Tips for improving your mental wellbeing
We all need positive mental health and well-being as it can be important to realise our full potential and live happy and healthy lives. Ways to maintain positive mental health include:
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? Relax and reduce stress
? Reframe unhelpful thoughts
? Find ways to learn and be creative
? Spend time in nature
? Connect with others
? Do something for yourself
? Look after your physical health
? Try to get enough sleep
Supporting you in work – for Mental Health
Did you know that one in ten young people experience a mental health problem? One in six adults suffer from a common mental health problem every week (Source 2014 adult psychiatric morbidity survey).
Apprentices – remember you are not alone. Break the silence and if you are struggling, try speaking to one of our IPS Mental Health Champions. We have staff at IPS who are on hand to provide support and guidance confidentially. Details on this are around our training centres. If you’re not coping in your role, try also speaking to your employer for support. Did you know the?Access to Work Mental Health Support Service, funded by the Department for Work and Pensions also provides a free and confidential service that offers one-to-one support if you are feeling low, anxious, or stressed?
Eligibility includes being 16+, attending work or on sick leave and having a mental health condition. (This can be diagnosed or undiagnosed which has resulted in workplace absence or is causing difficulties in doing the job or staying at work.)
Talking Wellness – Kent and Medway’s staff mental well-being service
Are you an apprentice in the social care sector? The intensity of work NHS and social care staff are facing continues to take its toll on the health and well-being of the local workforce.
Talking Wellness is a safe and confidential space for NHS and social care staff working across Kent and Medway. A team of mental health professionals can provide a variety of psychological well-being help, support, and advice confidentially.
If face-to-face time with one of the Talking Wellness team is needed, that can be arranged too, either in person or, if preferred, by video.
Where to get additional support and advice
For more advice or guidance speak to your IPS Trainer, IPS Mental Health Champions or visit the websites below: