Mental Health Awareness Week 2023: Let's Keep Talking and Inspire Change
?Mental Health Awareness Week serves as a vital reminder of the ongoing struggle many individuals face, as well as the importance of fostering open conversations around mental health. It is crucial to recognize that these discussions are never easy, but they are necessary for breaking the stigma and building a supportive community.??
Promoting open conversations??
Opening up about our mental health challenges is a courageous act that encourages others to do the same. Even prominent figures have faced their own battles, proving that mental health issues can affect anyone. For example, Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, a renowned actor and former professional wrestler, has been open about his struggles with depression. Similarly, the talented actress and singer Lady Gaga has spoken candidly about her experiences with anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These individuals demonstrate that sharing our vulnerabilities can foster understanding and support.?
Thought-provoking statistics?
Statistics provide a sobering view of the prevalence and impact of mental health issues. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 1 in 4 people worldwide will experience a mental health condition at some point in their lives. Moreover, the Mental Health Foundation reports that major depression is the second leading cause of disability worldwide and a major contributor to the burden of suicide and ischemic heart disease . These numbers serve as a reminder that mental health challenges are not isolated incidents but a widespread concern demanding our attention and compassion.?
A universal experience?
It is essential to recognize that mental health affects every one of us, regardless of age, gender, or background. It is a fundamental part of our overall well-being. Just as physical health varies from person to person, so does mental health. Some days may be better than others, and that's okay. By understanding that mental health is a universal experience, we can foster empathy and create safe spaces for open conversations.?
Driving positive change??
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Given that most of us spend approximately five days of the week at work, with our colleagues and in our offices, workplace culture has a huge role to play in our mental health. This is something that we recognize at Orbus Software and are making efforts to support, particularly given many of our Orbeez (our playful name for our employees) work remotely or in a hybrid capacity. We are trying to create a vibrant Viva Engage platform that fosters a culture of openness and support. We’ve created spaces for people to share pictures of their adorable pets, favorite recipes for our budding chefs, and even photography! We want to create a culture where everyone feels able to be truly themselves, and where a helping hand is just a message away.??
Teambuilding is another key way to create a more inclusive culture that supports individuals’ mental well-being. We’ve taken this further (maybe a little too far!), for example with our recent participation in a 15k Tough Mudder ! Though it was a huge challenge for everyone involved, taking ourselves out of the workplace and into nature with new people and facing new obstacles gave our wonderful Orbeez a chance to bond and have fun!?
UK mental health charity Mind has highlighted the effects that nature can have on improving mental health . Spending time outside can improve your mood, reduce feelings of stress or anger and enhance self-esteem. That’s why we have partnered with reforestation organization One Tree Planted to plant trees through customer programs and campaigns. This pledge not only creates more outside spaces for people to enjoy and improve their mental health, but it also helps combat climate change and lowers our carbon footprint .?
Reflecting on your experiences?
Mental Health Awareness Week serves as a reminder that we are not alone in our struggles. Though there is a dedicated week to think about our mental health, it’s important that we don’t let our awareness wane once it’s over.?
We invite you to reflect on your own experiences: have you been directly or indirectly affected by mental health challenges? By sharing our stories and supporting one another, we can foster a society that nurtures mental well-being for all.?