The Importance of Mental Health First Aiders in the Workplace
Our Office & Finance Manager, Chloe Jackson, recently completed a Mental Health First Aid course and we’re delighted to announce that she has successfully qualified as our lead Mental Health First Aider!
But, it has got us thinking about how important Mental health first aiders (MHFAs) are! These trained individuals play a crucial role in identifying signs of mental health challenges, providing initial assistance, and guiding colleagues to appropriate professional support. In doing so, they help create a workplace culture that prioritises mental well-being alongside physical health.
Why Mental Health First Aiders Matter at Jackson Purdue Lever
- They help to promote awareness and reduce stigma. – MHFAs encourage open conversations about mental health, helping to break down stigmas that often prevent employees from seeking help.
- Assist in early intervention. – They identify early signs of mental health issues such as stress, anxiety, or depression, enabling timely support and preventing potential crises.
- Help to improves productivity. – Addressing mental health challenges promptly reduces absenteeism and enhances overall workplace morale and productivity.
- Enhance workplace culture: Promoting mental health creates a supportive environment where employees feel valued, leading to higher job satisfaction and loyalty. By ensuring the management team have mental health awareness it has allowed us to intertwine mental health into all our policies and procedures.
‘Prioritising mental health first aid in the workplace isn’t just about responding to crisis; it’s about building an environment where compassion, understanding, and well-being are at the forefront and intertwined in our company’s procedures and processes’
Chloe Jackson – Office & Finance Manager
Steps Jackson Purdue Lever are taking to enhance awareness of mental health in our company
Enhancing awareness of mental health in our company, for all employees, is essential to creating a supportive and inclusive workplace. We hope to reduce stigma and empower employees to prioritise their well-being.
- Training Programs: We are committed to ensuring all our management team are equipped with tools to recognise and address mental health issues.
- Awareness Campaigns: We want to normalise conversations around mental health to reduce stigma. We promote work-life balance through flexible work arrangements and monthly team socials.
- Support Systems: Improve our resources and provide all employees with rescources such as Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) and access to professional mental health services.
We feel these efforts not only support individual mental health but also contribute to improved morale, productivity and a stronger more resilient company!
Useful Rescources
For resources and training, visit MHFA England or St John Ambulance to learn how to support mental well-being in your workplace.
Need help in finding local Mental Health Charities visit https://hubofhope.co.uk/
Are you suffering from mental health and need support? not sure where to look then see below some useful resources
https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/mental-health-services/how-to-find-local-mental-health-services/