Danielle Baron, diversity and inclusion therapist, coach and entrepreneur, highlights the importance of increasing resources to support mental health and well-being throughout society.
In today’s demanding and fast-paced world, prioritizing mental health and wellbeing cannot be emphasized enough. The well-being of frontline and key workers, as well as the provision of comprehensive mental health education, is essential to improving society, improving productivity and maintaining well-being. -be. This reciprocal synergy deserves increased attention.
Mental health at work
Frontline staff and key workers have always been the unsung heroes of our society, especially during the recent global pandemic. However, as the pandemic fades into the past, they risk falling back into obscurity, undervalued and forgotten. To protect their mental well-being, we need to implement regular mental health checks, unhindered access to counseling and support services, and initiatives to alleviate workplace stressors. Additionally, low wages contribute to mental health problems.
This transformation requires a top-down approach, in which leaders take responsibility and commit to eradicating toxic work cultures, valuing their employees and utilizing their strengths. Supporting these people ensures their well-being and the efficient functioning of essential services, with far-reaching positive consequences across society, saving the economy billions.
Mental health education should extend beyond clinical settings and into workplaces, communities, schools and homes. This holistic approach meets several essential objectives. First, it removes the stigma around mental health, making it a common and open topic of discussion. Around one in four people are affected by mental health problems each year. So this should not be a taboo subject.
This normalization encourages individuals to seek help without fear of judgment or bias, which aligns with the legal responsibility of employers in the UK to protect the mental health of their employees. Second, it equips individuals with the skills to recognize mental distress in themselves and others, thereby enabling early intervention. Third, it fosters a culture of support, as well-informed individuals are more likely to help friends, family, or colleagues in need.
Major depressive disorder
Major depressive disorder Affects people of all ages and is characterized by persistent discouragement, hopelessness, and a decline in interest in once-enjoyed activities. Symptoms may include changes in appetite, sleep patterns and somatic complaints. Recognizing MDD is vital because it can disrupt work, relationships and daily life. Prioritizing mental health requires integrating mental health into health systems, reducing stigma through public awareness campaigns, and integrating mental health education into school curricula. This helps identify and address mental health issues early, reduce stigma, and equip individuals with the tools to support themselves and others.
Symptoms of depression can vary across age groups. The top three symptoms in adults include, but are not limited to, persistent sadness or low mood, fatigue or loss of energy, and changes in appetite and weight. In children, it is more common to observe irritability and mood swings, academic problems and sleep problems.
Recognizing neurodiversity in schools
Additionally, recognizing neurodiversity and promoting holistic well-being in schools, workplaces and communities further contributes to a mentally resilient and thriving society. Recognizing neurodiversity within the school environment promotes inclusiveness, allowing students with neurodivergent conditions to thrive.
Adapting instructional approaches to accommodate neurodiversity can alleviate academic stress for these students, thereby reducing the risk of mental health issues. It is crucial to engage communities in mental health initiatives, providing access to on-site school counselors and collaborating with local mental health organizations to ensure students have additional resources and support in times of need. of need.
Maternal mental health
Support for new single mothers is essential to promote mental well-being and societal resilience. The challenges mothers face during the early stages of parenthood, whether single or not, can be overwhelming. Adequate support encompasses a range of measures, including accessible health services, affordable childcare options, parental leave policies and community programs.
Providing emotional and financial support as well as a network of resources and advice can significantly ease the burden new single mothers may experience. Ensuring mothers have the support they need is not just about compassion; it is recognition of their essential role in feeding the future generation and contributing to a mentally healthier and more resilient society. When given the opportunity, single mothers can be one of the most effective groups of people in society.
Mental health education and worker protection
Protect frontline workers, instill mental health education, understand conditions such as major depressive disorder, promote overall community well-being, and adopt a cohesive strategy encompassing schools, workplaces and entities local measures are essential measures to forge a solid and prosperous society that truly values and defends the well-being of everyone.
This collaborative effort is the key to a brighter, economically prosperous and mentally healthy future for all. It is indeed astonishing that the backbone of our society is often undercompensated, leading to stress, excessive workloads and burnout. In my opinion, this situation needs a major overhaul.
