Mental health advice from our experienced first aiders
This week, we’re proud to once again help spread awareness around Mental Health Awareness Week, an invaluable date in the calendar to remind us all of the importance of taking the time to assess and reflect on our mental wellbeing as well as the wellbeing of those around us.
Earlier in the year we were proud to highlight the incredible contributions of two of our dedicated Mental Health First Aiders, Amanda MacCarthy and Donna Yard, who each celebrated 5 years in the role. During that time, Amanda and Donna have been instrumental in providing crucial support, guidance, and empathy to their colleagues during times of need – so we sat down with them to gain some further insights and expert advice on more of the ways we can be aware of mental health in the workplace.
Amanda, what inspired you to become a Mental Health First Aider, and how has this role evolved over the past 5 years?
With burnout and stress continuing to rise, I felt that more could be done in the workplace to address this issue so becoming a Mental Health First Aider was something I could personally do to help. It’s becoming clear that organisations must commit time and energy to make sure they’re doing everything they can to help workers stay happy and healthy. Not just for the sake of workers, but for the success of their businesses too.
How do you feel the perception of mental health has evolved over the past 5 years?
It is good to see that in the last few years Mental Health is no longer a taboo subject with much more general awareness of it as something that can impact anyone.
Donna, being a Mental Health First Aider must have a profound impact on your own wellbeing – how do you prioritise self-care and maintain your own mental health while supporting others in need?
Being a mental health first aider really isn’t about me; the priority is always about being there for someone else in need. Work is a large part of everyone’s life, so my priority is to ensure that the NRL staff / operators know we are there with support and an outlet to take the first steps with their mental health.
What advice would you give to employees who may be hesitant to reach out for mental health support?
We’re not here to judge or tell anyone. We’re just here to support you in getting the right support to move forwards, but I realise that often it’s that first step that is the most difficult but honestly, it’s worth it.
I became a mental health first aider 5 years ago but just 2 years ago, I went through my own journey after the birth of my second child. Thankfully after some brilliant support, I’m back to being me and grateful to those who supported me along the way.
Amanda and Donna’s dedication to promoting mental health awareness and providing support has been a driving force within our Group, along with the nine other Mental Health First Aiders we have in place across our business who similarly support our colleagues. Their commitment to fostering a mentally healthy workplace environment has not gone unnoticed, and we extend our deepest gratitude for their unwavering dedication and support.