Building Resilience: Why Mental Health Should Be a Priority This Movember

Supporting mental health in the workplace is essential for building resilience within teams. Resilience is the heartbeat of every successful team, helping members adapt to challenges and support one another when things get tough. By fostering open conversations and implementing support systems, mental health challenges can be addressed early, helping prevent long-term absences and benefiting both the individual and the team. 

This Movember, let’s highlight the importance of mental health as a key component of resilience.

What You’ll Learn

• Discover why resilience and mental health are crucial topics, with Movember helping to raise awareness and start conversations.
• Learn how open conversations about mental health can strengthen connections, boost productivity, and enhance workplace reputation.
• Explore practical strategies to support mental health in the workplace, from policies to creating safe spaces.
• Access useful UK resources for mental health support, both for employees and leaders.
• Understand how prioritising mental health and leading by example can normalise discussions, creating a culture of openness and support.

Why Movember Matters

Movember isn’t just about growing moustaches—it’s a movement that encourages open discussions around health, particularly mental well-being. Many people face mental health challenges, but social expectations sometimes make it harder for men to express their struggles openly. This month, let’s help break down those barriers, highlighting the importance of support and resilience for everyone.

How Mental Health and Resilience Go Hand in Hand

• Building Connections: Open conversations about mental health foster connection. When team members share experiences, it creates a sense of community that leads to support and camaraderie.
• Boosting Productivity: Mental well-being directly affects focus and creativity. When employees feel supported, they’re more likely to perform at their best, boosting morale and productivity.
• Enhancing Reputation: Companies known for prioritising mental health attract top talent and enjoy higher employee retention. A reputation as a supportive workplace is a long-term investment in people and brand.

Practical Ways to Support Mental Health in the Workplace

Here are some actionable steps businesses can take to support employee mental health this Movember and beyond:

• Create a Mental Health Policy: Draft a clear policy that outlines the company’s commitment to mental health. Include resources, procedures for addressing mental health concerns, and the importance of using annual leave for well-being.
• Offer Mental Health Training for All Employees: Provide training on mental health awareness for everyone, not just managers. Workshops on recognising distress and understanding mental health can foster supportive peer conversations.
• Encourage Regular Check-ins: Implement informal or structured one-on-one check-ins where employees can discuss well-being and support needs. This proactive approach opens the door to valuable conversations.
• Promote Employee Well-being: Encourage employees to maintain a healthy balance between work and personal life. This could mean flexible work hours, remote working options, or simply emphasising the importance of taking regular breaks.
• Create a Safe Space for Discussion: Establish a dedicated space, physical or virtual, where employees can discuss mental health without judgment. This could be a monthly discussion group or an online platform.

Useful Resources for Mental Health Support

For those who may be struggling, whether employees or managers, accessing professional support can be invaluable. Here are some helpful resources in the UK:

• Mind: mind.org.uk – Information and advice on mental health, including support services.
• Samaritans: samaritans.org – Confidential support for anyone in distress.
• Mental Health Foundation: mentalhealth.org.uk – A wealth of information on mental health and how to seek help.
• NHS Mental Health Services: nhs.uk – Resources and local support for mental health issues, including information on counselling and other mental health services.

Remind employees of any company-specific resources, such as an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) or counselling services.

Taking Movember Beyond November

While Movember is a powerful catalyst for these conversations, it’s essential to keep the momentum going. Here’s how to make mental health a priority all year:

• Celebrate Mental Health Awareness Days: Use awareness days throughout the year to host events, workshops, or activities that promote well-being and open dialogue.
• Incorporate Mental Health into Team Meetings: Make it a regular agenda item in team meetings to check in on mental health. Normalising the topic in a work setting shows that it’s okay to talk about it.
• Lead by Example: Show that you value mental health by sharing stories, resources, and normalising discussions. When leaders openly prioritise mental well-being, it encourages employees to do the same.

Resilience Starts with Mental Health

To build a thriving workplace, mental health must be a priority. Supporting mental health means addressing challenges early and providing employees with the tools they need to stay well and resilient. By implementing practical solutions and fostering a culture of openness and support, we can avoid long-term absences and create a work environment that values resilience and well-being as cornerstones for long-term success.

Join the Conversation: 

This Movember, start a conversation about mental health with your colleagues. Share this blog post, check in with a teammate, or suggest implementing one of these practical solutions in your workplace. Every effort counts in building a culture where everyone can thrive.