World Mental Health Day: Workplace Wellness

World Mental Health Day (every year on 10 October) emphasises the importance of discussing mental health. This year’s theme, set by the World Federation of Mental Health, focuses on workplace mental health, highlighting its impact on individuals, organisations, and communities.

We’ve been asking colleagues at tmactive how they like to unwind and take time for themselves. So, grab a cuppa and enjoy these insights into finding a daily balance.

Exploring the natural world
“I like to forage for wild food on my dog walks and then use it fresh in recipes or preserve it. The whole process is like a mindfulness exercise and hugely benefits my mental health – getting outdoors; noticing habitats and seasonal changes; picking, washing, and preparing leaves, nuts, berries and mushrooms. My favourite makes this year have been wild garlic pesto, nettle soup, elderflower cordial, rosehip jelly and sloe gin. And because I now eat more local food in season and shop less, I’m also improving my physical health, reducing my carbon footprint and saving money!” (Sarah and her dog Rolo)

Moving more
“I do weightlifting twice a week – traditionally a male-dominated activity in the gym. I do classes with SheBarbell, for up to 6 women with a coach. We support and encourage each other to lift heavy weights with good technique. Resistance training such as weightlifting is shown to lower depression, anxiety, and fatigue and improve self-esteem, sleep quality, and cognitive functions” (Alison)

“I have started going to the gym with Tamsin once a week so that we can connect outside of our work setting (and to get me back in there after quite a few months off!). I also do martial arts twice a week.” (Hannah)

“I have recently taken up Pilates and find that a real help in maintaining good mental health wellbeing.  Also, with the greater awareness of mental health, there is no stigma in talking through your problems or checking in with friends who have issues they may be going through or dealing with.  A problem shared etc.” (Chris R)

“I always feel better after a walk, and light yoga stretches and meditation before bed helps me to unwind” (Julie)

The staff at Tonbridge Pool are an active bunch with Alan playing golf, Rachael using running as her activity reset, Sam paddle boarding on the river and Peter enjoying a post-work swim.

“Lifting some weights gets the endorphins going and is sure to make you feel better and positive. Some form of weight training 3 times a week. Taking or participating in a class. Enjoy exercises with others and having a good atmosphere. I enjoy teaching my classes and having good rapport with the members attending. Helps after a stressful day to unwind.” (Brad)

Creating healthy mindful habits
“I believe in the power of affirmations or choosing three positive words a day to repeat. Finding a positive a day, no matter how small. It may be appreciating the colours of a flower or hearing a bird sing. Take smaller steps for goals. A favourite mantra is: ‘If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at begin to change.”’ (Angela)

“After ending a shift, I get home and take the dogs for a walk. Great for reflecting on the day and to destress. When I leave work, work ends. I always try to stick to the rule of detaching myself from work when I leave. Downtime is hugely important. Sleep pays a huge part in my mood and health. I always get up early which helps ensure I sleep well when I go to bed.” (Brad).

“I love to declutter and organise for a sense of mental clarity and freedom. The act of clearing away physical clutter can be surprisingly therapeutic, mirroring the process of clearing our minds of unnecessary thoughts and worries. By organising our belongings and creating functional systems tailored to our needs throughout our homes and workspaces, we create a sense of order and control in our environment, which can have a calming effect on our minds and emotions and enhance our overall well-being.” (Sam J)

Fuel for the mind, body and soul
“I bake for the park volunteers every month, to combine my hobby and job – food connects us all!” (Hannah)

“Coffee with friends is a good pick-me-up.” (Julie)

“A morning glass of water when I get up before anything. Rehydrating the body helps kit start the system and being hydrated is an important part of the body functioning correctly.” (Brad)

Unwind and zone out
“I unwind by listening to a podcast on my way home” (Sam W)

“Family time and trips to the theatre get me in a better mood and offer a slice of escapism” (Julie)

“After ending a shift, I get home and take the dogs for a walk. Great for reflecting on the day and to destress. When I leave work, work ends. I always try to stick to the rule of detaching myself from work when I leave. Downtime is hugely important” (Brad)

Here are some useful links and mental health resources:
West Kent Mind support and resources
Chatterbox Chats activity from Young Minds
Research-backed mental health tips
Resource for Young Carers
6 Ways To Wellbeing
Young Minds

We are offering FREE sessions on 10 October in aid of World Mental Health Day.