Amid news of Pennsylvania Sen. John Fetterman’s first term checking into the hospital For the treatment of clinical depression, mental health is once again at the forefront of discussions. Among the discussions in recent weeks, there has been an outpouring of support from politicians and Americans.
But despite this strong support, there remains controversy and misunderstanding about what “mental health” actually means, all made more obscure in the political world by uncertainty over recent claims that it exists.no emergency plan» while waiting for the Senator to recover.
Although mental health is getting more attention than ever – from a wide variety of interactive wellness apps to celebrity endorsements to workplace wellness initiatives from top companies – a stigma persists. This goes hand in hand with a general unease, or fear, for many about sharing their own struggles.
The role of communications in mental health
As communicators, we are inherently cautious about siding with politics and controversial topics. Just as mental health cannot be put into a single category, every person and situation is unique. The topic of mental health transcends politics…and the way it should be addressed needs to be normalized.
At the same time, sharing mental health issues can be intimidating for public relations professionals at all levels, let alone those in a leadership position. But it’s time for more people to become vulnerable. While being an advocate and ally is something that is, and always will be, greatly needed, there is something very inspiring about a leader willing to open up and share something that resonates with the whole community. ‘team.
Here are four tips to help PR professionals lead by example in promoting mental health and wellbeing.
Normalize that mental health IS health
Have you ever been personally affected by anxiety or depression? Have you lost (or almost lost) a loved one to suicide? Do you know anyone who has done this? Is a loved one struggling with a mental health problem? Chances are you answered yes to at least one of these questions. That’s because mental health affects everyone.
Although research has shown that one in four adults will report a mental health problem at some point in their lives, others research by the Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA), the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) and Opinium shows that public relations professionals are even more affected.
A staggering 90% of people in PR reported experiencing mental health issues to some extent in 2021. Beyond that:
- 67% of PR professionals said an overwhelming workload was a major source of their stress.
- 61% reported feeling guilty for missing work due to mental health issues.
- 40% of people with mental health problems haven’t told anyone at work.
- 25% of those who spoke out did not find their workplace understanding and supportive.
Mental health issues are experienced from the top, with CEOs and senior leaders across all areas being affected. A study found that 49% of CEOs struggle with mental health and report being overworked, tired and suffering from ongoing stress.
Let’s talk about the speech
As part of the standardization process, public relations professionals and communicators should “walk the talk” when it comes to promoting a safe environment for mental health and physical fitness. Whether or not you suffer from a mental health condition, it’s important to make sure everyone on the team understands that you and your business support the mental health and wellbeing of all staff.
Nine out of ten PR professionals have experienced mental health issues in the past year. Mental health is not only a topic that needs to be discussed openly, but also a topic that needs to be addressed as a priority. As the saying “it’s okay to not be okay” becomes more common, public relations professionals will begin to feel more comfortable recognizing their own needs and addressing their concerns before they become a bigger problem.
Many people are lucky enough to have access to an “inner circle” of family and friends with whom they can discuss their mental health issues, but some still struggle or don’t feel comfortable. comfortable opening up about certain issues. Even if a manager or colleague is never part of this “inner circle,” by showing support, he or she can go a long way toward gaining trust and ultimately improving the health and well-being of the employee. the whole team.
Walk the walk
There are several ways that PR professionals and businesses can promote mental health and well-being, starting with encouraging employees to take time off if they need it.
Companies can also provide access to a positive, safe, private space so that team members feel like they can get the help they need without feeling discriminated against.
Red Havas works hard to ensure a “work-life balance” among team members. We offer a wide range of initiatives, including flexible hours and time off, including a “REDjuvination Hour” that employees can take and charge to a job code each week; summer and bonus PTO days; paid sabbaticals for birthdays; and access to digital resources, such as Headspace app for all employees.
Become vulnerable
As PR professionals, our primary role is to communicate… but why don’t 40% of people struggling with mental health talk about it in the workplace? Messages from the top can go a long way in reinforcing that it’s okay to take a step back and prioritize mental health.
That said, leading by example can be intimidating for many senior executives. The message shift that needs to happen is that vulnerability should not be seen as a sign of weakness, but rather a sign of strength. No person is perfect and becoming vulnerable can be a way to improve connections and trust between team members.
Supporting a long list of celebrities who are more vocal about their mental health struggles – from Jewel to Maria Carey – more CEOs are also starting to step up and take action. share their stories.
When it comes to promoting mental health and wellbeing in the PR profession, businesses that take a few small steps can make a huge difference in improving health, productivity and even company loyalty.
Melissa Rieger is Senior Vice President, Health and Wellness, Red Havas.
