We all have days when we’re not OK – and we should all feel able to say it
The pandemic has changed the way many businesses approach mental health and wellbeing. Some have completely revamped the support they provide for colleagues, while others have reprioritised the issue in light of the mental health challenges that have surfaced over the last 18 months. I’m really encouraged by the increase in conversations and open discussion around how we’re all doing, which is the result of everyone coming together to support one another through what has been unprecedented upheaval and uncertainty.
The pandemic hasn’t affected everyone in the same way – we all have different circumstances, set-ups and home and family lives, so it’s clear that a one-size fits all approach to protecting our mental health doesn’t work. I want all colleagues at National Grid to support those around them, whether that’s pointing them to relevant internal or external resources or spotting the signs that their colleagues might be struggling. But more importantly, we need a culture where everyone feels able to speak up and say, “I’m not OK”.
It takes huge courage to say when things aren’t right. But I’ve seen that the more we’re able to do so, the more confident and honest we can be with ourselves and those around us. And this ultimately comes down to the culture we create across our virtual and physical workplaces, and our efforts to make them inclusive.
So, as we move forward with a hybrid working model, we are aiming to remove the stress of having to choose between professional and personal commitments, and safeguard wellbeing in the long-term. At the same time, we’re conscious that how we communicate and reiterate the importance of mental health must also adapt to our new ways of working. We need to make sure those working from home have access to the same support, information and resources as those in the office or working out in the field.
Ultimately, mental wellbeing must remain high up the business agenda as the challenges facing people continue to evolve. For example, we need to look at how we support those suffering with Long Covid, especially as we learn more about the impact, which can extend beyond physical to psychological too. For truly responsible businesses, ongoing action and commitment to tackling mental health issues should shine through in everything we do.
IT 3rd Party Risk and Compliance
2yIt has felt a little odd seeing the lifting of restrictions in our offices (Warwick) however in my short time National Grid I am confident to be open within my team around how they are feeling and that we have resources and leadership support
Vice President, Siemens Energy
2yThank you for this important post John Pettigrew. Tomorrow in #siemensenergy we will kick off our #mentalhealth month with our All Employee Meeting here in The Netherlands. The core: it’s ok to say that you’re not ok. We have to take away the stigma of #mentalhealth - and we must lead by example
We can all create the conditions that enable others to say I am not ok by three actions. First we can show and share our vulnerability by going first - by having open conversations about how we are especially when that is not as ok as it might be - showing that we feel safe to do so. Second, we can become better at listening - paying attention and listening only to hear what is being said, not to respond. and third we can show curiosity - we can ask to learn more - this shows that we care and implies that the person we are hearing has the answers they need - and that by listening together we may be able to go a small way to finding them. These behaviours are always valuable, but they are more so when we are supporting others. Thanks for raising the issue in your post.
Thank you for showcasing what the workplace should be like - a safe place where we can collaborate and feel supported. Words well spoken. Thanks for embodying the company culture so elegantly. Thanks for speaking up about the importance of mental health, encouraging open communication, that it's okay to not be okay, and much more. We spend so much of our times at work. We shouldn't feel like we have to hide parts of us to fit in and feel accepted. We all matter. We all deserve support and a sense of safety and acceptance
Partner at Womble Bond Dickinson (UK) LLP | WBD net zero lead | Chair Redcliffe & Temple BID | Talks about planning and infrastructure
2yThank you for this John. I wholeheartedly agree and what is good to see is people are sharing their feelings within all roles in business and having leadership on this is critical.