It’s Mental Health Awareness Week, what better time to talk about the steps that BECG has taken to combat the stigma around mental health in the workplace.
Mental health problems can affect anyone at any time, that’s why BECG has trained individuals across the business to support their colleagues both in the workplace and in their day to day lives.
A group of BECG staff recently undertook a two-day MHFA (Mental Health First Aider) course which I can only describe as intense, eye opening and quite emotional at times. In a safe environment with a variety of individuals from different companies and backgrounds we shared experiences and concerns whilst gaining a truly in depth understanding of mental health conditions and issues that could arise through role plays, videos and exercises.
Unlike your typical workplace first aider, as MHFAs we are trained to look out for early signs that someone is experiencing anxiety, depression or other mental health conditions. We’re also educated on how to have an open minded attitude to mental health issues to help abolish common misconceptions and challenge the worries that individuals have about discussing their problems or concerns at work.
We’re not counsellors or medical professionals but individuals with a knowledge and understanding to help challenge the worry and negativity around talking about mental health and to ensure our colleagues are happy and healthy. We’re here to listen, be supportive and share knowledge and information to help individuals get further support.
We each now have the skills, knowledge and confidence to increase awareness overall and to help our colleagues understand it’s ok to talk about it!
We’re on hand to ensure our colleagues are supported and will be sharing a variety of great resources across the business this week to boost employee wellbeing.
In line with abolishing mental health stigma in the workplace, BECG has recently formed a new charity partnership with the Lighthouse Club, the only charity that provides emotional support to the construction community and their families who have suffered an injury, illness or just need some extra support. Find out more at www.lighthouseclub.org.
