Mental Health Awareness Week is all about starting conversations, breaking stigmas, and supporting each other. Every day this week our Mental Health Ambassadors have been sharing content and resources to make this week a celebration of mental health, connection, and looking after one another.

Day 1: Re-introducing our GSS Mental Health Ambassadors

On Monday, the Practice was re-introduced to the GSS Mental Health Ambassadors, our supportive team of colleagues who are committed to fostering a workspace where everyone feels seen and safe to speak up. To support the Practice, they have completed their Mental Health First Aider course with St John Ambulance, which means they are trained to recognise the signs and symptoms of common mental health issues, offer support, and guide people to further professional services where needed.

Day 2: De-stressing

Tuesday focused on sharing the varied ways that people across the Practice choose to de-stress. Throughout the day we shared recent pictures and stories of how we like to relax. Our strategies included amazing mountain adventures, beautiful walks outdoors, and some very cute dog pictures.

Day 3: Wear It Green Day

If you didn’t think we loved the colour green already! On Wednesday our offices took part in Wear it Green Day, raising money in support of the Mental Health Foundation. All funds raised will go towards researching, developing and advocating for new and effective ways to support and protect good mental health. Together we can make mental health a priority!

Day 4: 8 Pillars of Wellness

Reflection is a huge part of monitoring mental health, helping to understand your own strengths as well as needs. Our mental health ambassadors shared with us the 8 pillars of wellness, designed to help people examine the eight key areas that contribute to a balanced and healthy life. Each pillar was supported by links to a mental health support database, called the Hub of Hope – a free resource available to anyone. This was a great way for people across the Practice to reflect on areas where they might want to strengthen their well-being, or use as a tool to help those around them.

Day 5: Sunflower Progress

Mental Health Awareness Week finished on a high with our sunflower growing competition. Part of an initiative organised by our Wellness Champions, each office was given sunflower seeds to grow and nurture at their desk or at home. We have since been taking part in some healthy competition across offices to see who can grow the tallest sunflowers. Not only is it lots of fun, the competition has encouraged everyone to get involved in gardening and growing something, which is proven to be great for mental health. Connecting with nature, nurturing growth, and simply spending time outside can all help to boost our mood and reduce stress.