Many workplaces shy away from having conversations about mental health and wellbeing - for some it feels difficult and uncomfortable.... and whether we would like to admit it or not, for many of us, a stigma still exists around mental health.
Working in education, while incredibly rewarding, is tough at the best of times... Add a pandemic into the mix and you are left with teachers and leaders who are exhausted from ‘keeping calm and carrying on!’
I recently delivered a wellbeing workshop for staff, and I received a stark reminder of the importance of checking in with your colleagues, no matter how ‘okay’ they appear to be on the surface.
Many of us have perfected our ‘swan’ impression into a fine art and present as being ‘okay’ to others on a daily basis. However, when you delve below the ‘tip of the iceberg’, the reality is very different.
We can be surrounded by others and still feel desperately alone and unable to discuss our mental health and wellbeing.
It is essential to create a work environment that is supportive and psychologically safe – an environment in which discussions around mental health and wellbeing are the norm and not the exception to the rule.
Take Action
If you would like some support to promote and enhance staff wellbeing, while strengthening a wellbeing focused culture, using tangible tools and techniques, please get in touch.
I offer a range of affordable staff wellbeing workshops that can be delivered during a staff meeting, or as part of an INSET day.
Here is a link to my diary - let's have a chat! https://www.courageovercomfortcoaching.co.uk/contact