Managing Mental Health in the Workplace

The 13th - 19th May 2024 is Mental Health Awareness Week . Did you know that according to the CIPD , more than two-thirds of HR professionals are concerned about the impact of mental health on their employees? That's a staggering number, and it highlights the growing importance of mental well-being in today's workplace.?

In the past, mental health issues weren't always taken seriously in the office. But thankfully, times are changing. More and more people are opening up about their struggles, and businesses are starting to recognise the importance of supporting their employees' mental health.?

Why Mental Wellbeing Matters at Work?

Imagine this: you're at work, but your mind feels foggy. Maybe you're stressed about a deadline, or worried about something personal. It's hard to concentrate, and even simple tasks feel overwhelming. This is just one example of how poor mental wellbeing can affect us in the workplace.?

But why exactly is mental well-being so important? This is the thing, happy and healthy employees are simply better for business. Studies by the CIPD show that good mental health can lead to a boost in productivity, profitability, and staff morale. Think about it – when you feel good, you're more likely to be engaged, creative, and motivated at work.?

On the flip side, poor mental health can have a serious impact on the workplace. According to Mental Health at Work , it can lead to things like absenteeism (people calling in sick), presenteeism (people being physically present but not really working), and even staff turnover. This can be a huge cost for businesses, not to mention a drag on overall morale.?

But here's the good news: creating a mentally healthy workplace is totally achievable. By fostering a supportive environment, offering flexible work options, and promoting open communication, businesses can make a big difference in the lives of their employees. And guess what? That translates to a happier, healthier, and more successful workforce for everyone.?

Why Resilience is a Recruiter's Superpower?

Rejection. It's a word no-one likes to hear, especially when you face it day in and day out. Recruiters – you're not alone! Rejection is part of the recruitment game and successful recruiters don't let it get them down. They've mastered the art of resilience, which is basically your mental toughness in the face of setbacks.?

So, you might be wondering, "How do I stop taking rejections personally?", a candidate rejecting a job offer isn't a reflection on you. It simply means it wasn't the perfect fit for them. Sometimes, the candidate and the role just don't align.?

Here's where resilience comes in. By developing this mental muscle, you can learn to bounce back quickly from rejection and keep moving forward. After all, the next perfect candidate could be just around the corner!?

But why is resilience so important in recruitment (and even sales)?:?

• It keeps you motivated: the recruitment process can be a rollercoaster. But with resilience, you can stay positive and motivated, even when things get tough.?
• It helps you learn from setbacks: Every rejection is a learning opportunity. By reflecting on what went wrong, you can improve your approach for the next candidate.?
• It builds confidence: The more you bounce back from rejection, the more confident you become in your abilities. That confidence will shine through in your interactions with candidates and employers.?

So, how do you build your resilience? There are plenty of things you can do, like focusing on your successes, developing a positive mindset, and learning from your mistakes. Remember, resilience is a skill, and like any skill, it takes practice. But with dedication, you can become a rejection-proof recruiter!?

How to Boost Mental Wellbeing at Work?

Feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or just down at work? You're not alone. But the good news is, there's a secret weapon you might be overlooking: movement! This year, the focus on the mind-body connection is stronger than ever, and for good reason. Getting your body moving is like hitting the reset button on your mood and energy levels.?

Here's how to incorporate movement into your workday and unlock a happier, healthier you:?

• Walking Meetings are the New Power Meetings: Ditch the stuffy conference room and have walking meetings instead. Fresh air and a change of scenery can spark creativity and boost problem-solving skills, all while getting your steps in.?
• Invest in a Standing Desk (or Improvise!): Sitting all day can zap your energy. Consider a standing desk, or get creative! Stack some books on your regular desk to create a temporary standing workstation.?
• Small Steps, Big Impact: Remember, every bit of movement counts. Park a little farther from the office or take the long way to the coffee machine. These small changes add up and make a big difference.?

Remember, movement isn't about punishment or grinding through intense workouts. It's about finding activities you enjoy that make you feel good. By incorporating these tips, you can transform your workday from a mental drain to a mood-boosting movement marathon!?

If you're ever feeling stressed or burnt out at work, it's important to know you're not alone. There are steps you can take to improve your mental wellbeing and create a happier work experience. Speak to your HR team/managers about your company’s Mental Health Policy to see how your business approaches mental wellbeing. If you need further advice on how to seek help for your mental health, please read Mind's information on how to seek help for a mental health problem.