Focusing on your mental health can have a positive impact on both your personal and professional life. Research Consultant, Harry Thomson, highlights the benefits of prioritising your mental wellbeing and provides suggestions for how this can be achieved.
According to Spill Mental Health, an average of 1 in 6 individuals in the UK have been affected by poor mental health. Deloitte has also reported that 64% of managers have considered leaving their roles to improve their mental health. Mental health is something we often relegate to the back burner; an area overlooked in favour of prioritising our physical health, career goals, and personal ambitions. However, nurturing our mental health shouldn’t be seen as a luxury, it’s a necessity.
The Case for Positive Mental Health
1. It Enhances Productivity and Performance
Contrary to popular belief, mental health isn’t just about coping with stress or overcoming challenges, it’s also about thriving and reaching our full potential. Investing in our mental wellbeing sharpens our focus, enhances cognitive function, and boosts creativity. As a result, we become more productive and perform better in our professional roles.
2. It Fosters Resilience
In today’s fast-paced world, setbacks and obstacles are inevitable. However, individuals who have strong mental health are better equipped to navigate these challenges. They possess greater resilience, and bounce back from adversity more quickly while maintaining a positive outlook.
3. It Strengthens Relationships
Healthy relationships are the cornerstone of a fulfilling life, both at work and at home. When we prioritise our mental health, we develop better communication skills, empathy, and emotional intelligence. These qualities encourage us to foster harmonious relationships with colleagues and loved ones, and resolve conflicts more effectively.
4. It Improves Physical Health
The mind-body connection is undeniable. Research has consistently shown that good mental health is closely linked to better physical health outcomes. By managing stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges, we reduce the risk of developing chronic conditions such as heart disease, hypertension, and diabetes.
Strategies for Cultivating Positive Mental Health
1. Practice Self-Care
Self-care isn’t selfish – it’s essential for maintaining mental wellbeing. Carve out time in your schedule for activities that bring you joy and relaxation, whether that is reading a book, taking a walk in nature, or practising mindfulness meditation. Prioritise adequate sleep and nutrition, and exercise to nourish both your body and mind.
2. Set Boundaries
Our world today is increasingly hyper-connected, with constant demands and notifications making it easy to become overwhelmed. Learn to set boundaries to protect your mental space. Establish designated times for work, leisure and unplugging from technology. Communicate your boundaries clearly to colleagues and those close to you, and don’t hesitate to say no when necessary.
3. Seek Support
There’s strength in seeking support when you need it. Whether it’s through therapy, counselling, or support groups, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional help if you’re struggling with your mental health. Talking to a trusted friend or family member can also provide valuable emotional support and perspective.
4. Practice Gratitude
Develop a mindset of gratitude by focusing on the positive aspects of your life. Keep a gratitude journal where you record positive thoughts or things you are grateful for. Express appreciation to others and take time to savour life’s simple pleasures. Gratitude has been shown to improve your mood, enhance resilience, and promote overall wellbeing.
Bridging Together Work and Personal Life
Finally, it’s important to recognise that mental health doesn’t exist in isolation, it features across every aspect of our lives including our work and personal spheres. By integrating mental health practices into both domains, we create a holistic approach to wellbeing that nurtures us on all fronts.
In the workplace, employers can play a crucial role by promoting a culture of openness, providing access to mental health resources, and offering flexible work arrangements that accommodate employees’ wellbeing needs. Likewise, individuals can advocate for their mental health by setting boundaries, taking regular breaks, and seeking support when needed.
Similarly, in our personal lives, we can prioritise activities that promote mental wellbeing, such as spending quality time with loved ones, pursuing hobbies and interests, and practising self-care rituals. By recognising the interconnectedness of our mental health across our work and personal lives, we empower ourselves to lead happier, more fulfilling lives.
Investing in mental health isn’t just beneficial, it’s essential. By prioritising our mental wellbeing, we enhance productivity, resilience and relationships; while also improving our physical health through adopting strategies such as self-care, boundary-setting, seeking support and practising gratitude. So, let’s make mental health a priority, not just for ourselves, but for the betterment of all aspects of our lives.
For a confidential discussion on your talent attraction and retention strategies / requirements, please contact Harry Thomson: [email protected].
