World Mental Health Day is celebrated every year on 10 October. This year’s theme, which is set by the World Federation of Mental Health, is workplace mental health. The theme highlights the importance of addressing mental health and wellbeing in the workplace, for the benefit of people, organisations, and communities. 

People are encouraged to use this day to come together to talk about mental health and show how much mental health matters.

It matters at SJOG, and there are a number of initiatives we do already, but there is always more, and encouraging people to talk about their mental health will continue to be a priority.

Current initiatives:

• Bright Line - Bright Line is a dedicated confidential line run by SJOG Mental Health First Aiders to offer signposting and a friendly ear to colleagues who are struggling with their mental health.
• Wellbeing breaks - We prioritise the wellbeing of our colleagues and encourage dedicated 20-minute breaks, on top of regular ones, if needed.  When feeling overwhelmed, these breaks offer crucial moments to reset and recharge.
• Mental health first aiders - We recognise the importance of good mental health and are training colleagues to be first aiders in mental health in the same way we have physical first aiders.
• Self-care sessions - We host interactive sessions focusing on self-care, wellbeing, and stress management. Teaching effective strategies and tools for nurturing mental and physical health.
• Flexibility of work patterns - A good work and home life balance is very important and to support this we offer flexibility of work patterns wherever possible.
• 24/7 Access to a GP - Our health benefits package offers reimbursements on healthcare costs, and there is access to a GP helpline 24/7.
• Employee Assistance Programme - This counselling and advice portal offers a wealth of advice and support on: legal, family, relationships, money and health. Totally confidential and available 24/7.
• Meal a Day - SJOG are supporting colleagues by providing them with a ‘meal a day’ while they are at work.
• SJOG Step Club - The SJOG Step Club encourages colleagues to get moving and prioritise physical and mental health by tracking their steps and engaging in friendly competition with co-workers.

Follow us this week on social media to learn more:  www.facebook.com/SJOGUK   https://www.linkedin.com/company/saint-john-of-god-hospitaller-services 

 #WMHD2024

October 2024