World Mental Health Week is a great opportunity to raise awareness about mental health and show your team that their well-being is a priority. It’s important to remember that looking after mental health is not just about one week a year; it’s about creating a culture where mental health is talked about openly and supportively all year round. 

Here are some simple, effective ways to get your office involved during this important week, and beyond!

 

1. PROVIDE ACCESS TO FREE RESOURCES

One of the best things you can do during World Mental Health Week is make sure your team has access to valuable resources. Whether it’s a mental health app, links to local support services, or articles on well-being, offering these resources can go a long way. You could also invite an expert to run a seminar or webinar on mental health, where employees can ask questions in a safe, non-judgmental space. 

Make sure these resources are easily accessible, so your team knows where to turn if they ever need support.

 

2. OFFER MENTAL HEALTH DAYS

Sometimes, the best way to support mental health is by simply encouraging your team to take a break when they need it. Offering mental health days, where employees can take time off without the pressure of having to justify it, can help them recharge and reduce stress. This is especially important for those who may feel like they can’t take time off due to workload or expectations. 

Giving your team the option to take a mental health day without guilt shows that you care about their overall well-being and gives them the chance to look after themselves.

 

3. PROVIDE MINDFULNESS & WELL-BEING ACTIVITIES

Encouraging mindfulness and well-being activities is another great way to promote mental health in the workplace. These activities can help employees to reduce stress and improve focus. You could introduce a daily or weekly mindfulness session, whether it’s a short meditation, some simple stretching exercises, or even just a moment of silence. Yoga or breathing exercises are also great options, as they can be done in the office or remotely. 

Providing quiet spaces or calming activities, like a relaxation room, can help employees decompress when they need a break from their busy day.

 

4. GATHER FEEDBACK

Creating an environment where mental health is a priority starts with listening to your employees. During World Mental Health Week, take the time to gather feedback on how your team is feeling. You could run a short anonymous survey or host a focus group where employees can share their thoughts on how mental health is handled in the office. This will give you valuable insights into areas where your office might improve and show your team that their voices are heard and appreciated. 

Feedback is essential in creating a workplace that truly supports mental health.

 

5. CREATE A SUPPORTIVE CULTURE

Ultimately, the most important thing you can do is foster a supportive culture around mental health. Encouraging open discussions about mental well-being, reducing the stigma, and showing empathy when colleagues are struggling all help to create a positive and supportive work environment. Make sure that managers and leaders are trained in how to recognise when someone might be struggling and how to offer support. 

Creating a culture of care, where mental health is treated with the same importance as physical health, is essential for a thriving, engaged team.

 

By incorporating these ideas, your office can help to make World Mental Health Week not just a one-time event, but a stepping stone toward lasting change. Remember, mental health is an ongoing journey, and there’s always more that can be done to support your team. For further resources and advice on supporting mental health in the workplace, organisations like Mind and the Mental Health Foundation offer plenty of helpful guidance. 

Together, we can make the workplace a more supportive and understanding space for everyone.