In honour of Mental Health Awareness Month, we had a heart-to-heart with our HR Manager, Natalie Thomas, to shed light on the power of opening up and sharing our feelings.
Here’s what she had to say:
When life throws challenges our way, it’s easy to put on a brave face and pretend everything is fine, and soldier on while silently struggling inside.
The fear of being judged as weak for showing vulnerability can hold us back from seeking support. However, speaking up is a crucial step towards feeling better. Masking our true emotions only adds to our stress and isolation, making it harder to cope with our inner turmoil.
Simply talking to someone openly can be incredibly therapeutic. It brings comfort, clarity, and relief, like a weight being lifted off our shoulders. Choosing a trusted listener who provides a safe, non-judgmental space is key to this healing process.
We all have the ability to be that supportive ear for others. By showing genuine interest and giving undivided attention, we create a space for open sharing and understanding. Sometimes, just expressing our concerns allows us to find our own solutions.
Human connection is essential for our well-being. In a world filled with distractions, genuine listening is a rare and valuable gift. Research shows that feeling isolated or ignored can have detrimental effects on our physical and emotional health.
While we often focus on diet and exercise for our health, the importance of nurturing relationships is often overlooked, and our happiness and overall health are greatly influenced by the quality of our connections with others.
It doesn’t have to be limited to close friends or family; meaningful relationships can also be found in the workplace. Whether it’s a casual chat by the coffee machine or a virtual catch-up, never underestimate the power of genuine conversation.
Here at EF, our team can take advantage of their Health Shield plans too, which gives them access to GP’s, counsellors, and valuable resources such as downloads, features and articles all aimed to help their well-being.
This week, challenge yourself to reach out and share with someone you trust. You may be surprised at how much lighter and supported you feel afterward.
For additional information and support please visit: https://mentalhealth-uk.org/information-and-support/
