Danielle Baron, therapist, coach and diversity and inclusion entrepreneur, emphasises the importance of increasing resources to support mental health and wellbeing throughout society
In today’s fast-paced and demanding world, prioritising mental health and wellbeing cannot be emphasised enough. The welfare of frontline staff and key workers, and the dissemination of comprehensive mental health education are central to enhancing society, improving productivity, and sustaining wellbeing. This reciprocal synergy deserves heightened attention.
Workplace mental health
Frontline staff and key workers have consistently been the unsung heroes of our society, especially during the recent global pandemic. However, as the pandemic has faded into the past, they risk diminishing into obscurity once again, undervalued and forgotten. To protect their mental wellbeing, we must implement regular mental health check-ins, unfettered access to counselling and support services, and initiatives to alleviate workplace stressors. Not only this, but poor pay contributes to mental health issues.
This transformation requires a top-down approach, with leaders taking responsibility and a commitment to eradicating toxic workplace cultures, valuing their employees, and utilising their strengths. Supporting these individuals ensures their wellbeing and the efficient functioning of essential services, with far-reaching positive consequences throughout society, saving the economy billions.
Mental health education should extend beyond clinical settings to workplaces, communities, schools, and homes. This holistic approach serves several vital purposes. First, it dismantles the stigma around mental health, making it a routine and open topic of discussion. Approximately one in four people are affected by mental health issues each year, so it should not be a taboo topic.
This normalisation encourages individuals to seek assistance without fear of judgment or bias, aligning with the UK’s legal responsibility of employers to safeguard their employees’ mental health. Second, it empowers individuals with the skills to recognise mental distress in themselves and others, enabling early intervention. Third, it fosters a culture of support as well-informed individuals are more likely to help friends, family, or colleagues in need.
Major Depressive Disorder
Major Depressive Disorder affects people of all ages and is characterised by persistent despondency, hopelessness, and waning interest in once-enjoyed activities. Symptoms can include changes in appetite, sleep patterns, and somatic complaints. Recognising MDD is vital, as it can disrupt work, relationships, and daily life. Prioritising mental health requires integrating mental health into healthcare systems, reducing stigma through public awareness campaigns, and incorporating mental health education into school curricula. This helps detect and address mental health issues early, reduce stigma, and equip individuals with the tools to support themselves and others.
Symptoms of depression can vary across different age groups. The top three for adults include, but are not limited to, persistent sadness or low mood, fatigue or loss of energy and changes in appetite and weight. In children, it is most common to see irritability and mood swings, academic problems, and sleep problems.
Acknowledging neurodiversity in schools
Additionally, recognising neurodiversity and promoting holistic wellbeing in schools, workplaces, and communities further contributes to a mentally resilient and flourishing society. Acknowledging neurodiversity within the school environment fosters inclusivity, allowing students with neurodivergent conditions to thrive.
Tailoring teaching approaches to accommodate neurodiversity can alleviate academic stress for these students, reducing the risk of mental health issues. It is crucial to involve communities in mental health initiatives, providing access to on-site school counsellors and collaborating with local mental health organisations to ensure students have additional resources and support when needed.
Maternal mental health
Support for new and single mothers is crucial to promoting mental wellbeing and societal resilience. The challenges mothers face during the early stages of parenthood, whether they are single or not, can be overwhelming. Adequate support encompasses a range of measures, including accessible healthcare services, affordable childcare options, parental leave policies, and community-based programs.
Offering emotional and financial support and a network of resources and guidance can significantly ease the burdens that new and single mothers may encounter. Ensuring that mothers have the support they need is not just a matter of compassion; it is recognition of their essential role in nurturing the future generation and contributing to a mentally healthier and more resilient society. When given the chance, single mothers can be one of the most efficient groups of people in society.
Mental health education and protecting workers
Protecting frontline workers, instilling mental health education, grasping conditions such as Major Depressive Disorder, fostering comprehensive community wellbeing, and embracing a cohesive strategy that encompasses schools, workplaces, and local entities are indispensable measures in forging a robust and thriving society that truly values and defends the wellbeing of each person.
This collaborative endeavour is the linchpin to a more promising, economically prosperous, and mentally sound future for everyone. It is indeed puzzling that the backbone of our society is often under-compensated, leading to stress, excessive workloads, and burnout. In my view, this situation must undergo a huge overhaul.
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