National news
Wellness in the Workplace
Mental Health and Us
One in four of us will experience a mental health issue and one in 10 children will be influenced, either directly or indirectly by mental health problems.
Half of those affected are either uncomfortable talking about their mental health or don't even realise they may be suffering.
Symptoms of poor mental health can present in so many ways, from anger and depression to phobias and sleep loss, that it can be difficult to spot them. Like many illnesses, treatment starts with identification, but without recognising the signs it can be hard to find the cause and remedy.
Work can often be the catalyst of much anxiety, especially in highly stressful jobs, but it can also be a great source of comfort and help when times are tough.
Employment can provide a sense of purpose and belonging, structure, community and support. With so much of our time spent at work, it's often our colleagues and managers who first spot changes in behaviour and personality.
Thanks to greater awareness and higher importance being placed on wellbeing, things are improving. There's less stigma around mental health and people are encouraged to talk more openly to share their experiences and seek help.
More companies and workplaces have health and wellbeing champions and training in place to help managers recognise and mitigate everyday stresses, before they have a chance to take hold.
Mental Health Conference 2019
The link between maintaining good mental health and taking regular exercise, eating healthily and enjoying recreation is well documented. So we at CSSC have a vital role to play in encouraging and inspiring our members to be active and healthy. On 8 October, we were honoured to be speaking at the Civil Service Mental Health Conference in London. This was delivered in partnership with CSEP and the Charity for Civil Servants.
The keynote speaker at this year’s event was CSSC’s Wendy Eley, Director of Strategic Development. Our CEO, Simon Lee also took the stage as a part of the senior leader’s panel for Q&A. Daisy Clarke, CSSC Sports and Development Executive, presented alongside the Charity for the Civil Servants as well as our new Vice Chairman, Ollie Phillips, closing the event as guest speaker.
Useful Links and Resources
If you’d like to know how you can help those who may be suffering with mental health issues, these websites offer some practical tips and advice.
foryoubyyou.org.uk
mind.co.uk
sane.co.uk
NHS moodzone
samaritans.org
Childline.org.uk
