Spotlight: Mental Health and Wellbeing in the Workplace

Blue Monday – here it is again! But in the words of Mind, “Today is just another day. #BlueMonday is made up, but mental health problems aren’t.”

In the workplace, employers play a crucial role in creating a supportive atmosphere. Implementing mental health initiatives, such as employee assistance programmes, stress management workshops, and flexible work arrangements, demonstrates a commitment to the well-being of the workforce. Open communication channels and reducing the stigma surrounding mental health concerns encourage employees to seek help when needed.

An emotionally healthy workplace not only benefits individuals but also enhances overall team dynamics. When employees feel supported, they are more likely to collaborate effectively, communicate openly, and contribute creatively. Additionally, investing in mental health initiatives can lead to increased employee loyalty and retention.

Today, VWA is taking the opportunity to share some useful resources we have discovered to support both employers and employees in the workplace.

PMAC Mental Health & Wellbeing is a UK based organisation of mental health & wellbeing trainers providing workplace training to businesses in the UK, helping to create a healthier and more productive working environment.

They have been running a series of free mental health and wellbeing webinars which employers and their teams are welcome to attend. Below are links to some upcoming sessions:

• Stress Reduction Skills Practice - 19th Jan 13:00
• Understanding and Improving Low Mood - 2nd Feb 13:00

Further to this, the mental health charity, Mind have a dedicated page offering a wealth of tools and resources to help employers and employees navigate the workplace mental health landscape.

​​Learn more here: Workplace - Mind

​Did you know…

The origins of 'Blue Monday'

The rather unfortunately label of ‘Blue Monday’, given to the third Monday of January each year, was actually coined by psychologist Cliff Arnall, following a request from a travel company to use as part of their winter deals promotion? Since its creation, Arnall has admitted that this was essentially pseudoscience and has urged Brits to “refute the whole notion” of Blue Monday, describing it as an unfortunate self-fulfilling prophecy!