Make talking about mental health at work less of a leap

Bridge the gap, start a chat. That's what the Midlands Mental Health and Productivity Pilot are encouraging with their new campaign to help get more employees and employers across the Midlands taking about mental health at work.

One in six workers in England experience a mental health problem such as depression or anxiety.

Making conversations about mental health more normal in the workplace can help reduce stigma and create a safe space for employees to open up. Open conversations help to create healthy and happy workplaces, and you don't have to be an expert on mental health to be able to take a small step towards bridging the gap.

The MHPP has pulled together a range of tools, resources, and ideas, from making a case for mental health, starting a conversation with colleagues, to guidance on developing a comprehensive mental health at work strategy.

Find out more by visiting the Start a Chat campaign website: https://mhpp.me/startachat/

Why not use being #ActiveTogether as an opportunity to start the conversation? Getting out for a walk or run at lunchtime with colleagues can ease the pressure and allow you to switch off from work, returning to your desk more refreshed and less stressed.

MHPP is a three-year programme funded by Midlands Engine, until June 2022. Led by Coventry University in partnership with University of Warwick, West Midlands Combined Authority, mental health charity Mind, Public Health England and five other Midlands universities – Birmingham, Derby, Lincoln, Loughborough, and Nottingham.