Safety Moment – World Mental Health day
At Rainbow Restoration, we often focus on the physical aspects of safety, but it’s equally important to prioritise mental health. Working in Damage Management can present unique challenges, from supporting emotional customers who have been affected by their losses to handling urgent repairs.
World Mental Health Day is an important reminder to check in with ourselves and each other, ensuring that mental well-being is a priority at work and in our personal lives.
Why mental health matters in the industry
Did you know?
According to studies, 1 in 4 people will experience a mental health issue at some point in their lives. Mental health affects how we think, feel, and perform at work, making it vital to take proactive steps to manage stress and prevent burnout.
The charity Mind reports that 1 in 6 workers in the UK will experience depression, anxiety or stress-related issues at any given time. This highlights the importance of recognising and addressing mental health challenges in the workplace.
In 2022/23, the HSE revealed that 51% of all work-related ill health in the UK was due to stress, anxiety or depression. Mental health is a key component of both workplace safety and productivity.
Ignoring mental health concerns can lead to burnout, increased absenteeism and a decline in overall safety. In fact, 17 million working days were lost due to work-related stress, depression or anxiety last year, according to the HSE.
Simple steps to a healthier workplace
Spot the signs of stress and burnout – Stress can creep up on us in subtle way, whether it is feeling constantly tired, getting easily irritated or struggling to focus. Left unchecked, these can lead to burnout, impacting not only your performance but also your well-being.
What you can do: If you notice these signs in yourself or a colleague, don’t ignore them. Sometimes, a quick chat or offer of support can be the first step to making a big difference.
Make self-care a daily habit – It’s easy to get caught up in the demands of work, but taking care of your mental health should be a daily priority. Whether it’s taking a break, practicing mindfulness, reading a book, listening to music or getting some fresh air during your breaks, small actions can build resilience.
Take a moment for yourself: Try setting aside at least 10 minutes each day to do something that relaxes or recharges you. Even a quick walk at lunch or practising deep breathing exercises can make a world of difference.
Look out for your colleagues – In a supportive workplace, people feel comfortable reaching out for help. If you see someone struggling, ask them how they’re doing. Sometimes, knowing that someone cares can be the biggest relief.
Be a good listener: When you check in with someone, practice active listening. You don’t need to solve their problem; just showing empathy can go a long way.
Use the resources available to you – Managing stress and mental health is important and you don’t have to do it alone. Rainbow Restoration Central Office employees have access to resources like our Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
An Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a confidential, employer-paid service that provides employees and their families with support for personal and work-related issues. EAPs can help with a range of concerns, including: financial concerns, health concerns, relationship concerns, stress, burnout and problematic substance use.
If an EAP is not available, external professional services can still provide support. Organisations such as Mind and your GP are valuable resources to consider when seeking help.
Know where to turn: Whether for yourself or a colleague, being familiar with the resources available to you can help when things get tough.
Let’s empower a culture of openness and support – We talk openly about physical safety, let’s do the same with mental health. By breaking down the stigma, we make it easier for everyone to speak up when they need support.
Lead by example: Share your own ways of coping with stress, and encourage others to do the same. Together, we can create a more supportive, open workplace where mental well-being is prioritised.
Empower your well-being – Champion mental health together!
Consider one small way you can enhance your own mental well-being or support a colleague. Whether it’s checking in on someone, taking a moment for yourself, or reaching out for help via a manager or the resources available to you, your contributions can create a positive and supportive atmosphere in our workplace.
Together, let’s cultivate an environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing their needs and seeking support. By prioritising mental well-being not just today but every day, we’re not just helping ourselves; we’re strengthening our workplace.
Mental Health Services
If you have been affected by anything mentioned in this blog, if you are feeling depressed, anxious or stressed, rest assured there is someone out there to help you:
Mind – Promotes the views and needs of people with mental health problems.
Telephone: 0300 123 3393 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm)
CALM – CALM is the Campaign Against Living Miserably, for men aged 15 to 35.
Telephone: 0800 58 58 58 (daily, 5pm to midnight)
Samaritans – Confidential support for people experiencing feelings of distress or despair.
Telephone: 116 123 (free 24-hour helpline)
SMART Recovery UK – face-to-face and online groups help people decide whether they have a problem with alcohol and drugs, build up their motivation to change and offer a set of proven tools and techniques to support recovery.
Telephone: 0330 053 6022 for general enquiries about SMART Recovery UK (9am to 5pm, Monday-Friday)