For many of us, work is a major part of our lives. It is where we spend much of our time, where we get our income and often where we make our friends. Having a fulfilling job can be incredibly rewarding for your mental health and general wellbeing.

At SRL, we believe in nurturing workplaces where everyone can thrive, and recognise the importance of our role as employers. We are passionate about fostering a positive and welcoming working environment.

It's vital that we address mental health at work for those with existing issues, for those at risk, and for the workforce as a whole. Concerningly, a recent study found that a quarter of construction workers have considered suicide, and 55% experience mental health issues.[1]

A year like no other

More so than ever before, through the unknowns and isolation of the pandemic it has been imperative that we support each other. For a significant number of people, Covid-19 has contributed to a deterioration in mental health: increased isolation, loneliness, monotony bereavement in lockdown. Needless to say, it has been tough.

SRL have worked hard to safeguard the health and well-being of our staff through this difficult time. In fact, we were recently recognised as a finalist in the Covid-19 response category at this year’s Hire Awards of Excellence, acknowledging the strategies we put in place to support employees and customers.

Nurture with nature

This Mental Health Awareness Week (May 10 – 16, 2021), the emphasis is on nature. Why? Over the last year or so, during the long months of the pandemic, many of us turned to nature. In fact, research on the mental health impacts of Covid-19 showed that going out for walks was one of our main coping strategies. Studies showed that not only did we spend more time enjoying nature, but we were also noticing it more.

There are several evidence-based coping strategies we can adopt to support our own mental health and build our resilience. These include, but are not limited to:

• Talking about your feelings
• Keeping active
• Eating well
• Asking for help
• Taking a break

SRL operates an open-door policy with staff being encouraged to talk through any challenges they may be facing. We believe that a problem shared is a problem halved. Let’s lessen the stigma associated with talking about feelings and inspire action to promote the message of good health for all.

For more information about this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week, visit: mentalhealth.org.uk/mhaw or join the conversation on social media using #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek

[1] (Warburton, 2021)

For more information about this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week, visit: mentalhealth.org.uk/mhaw or join the conversation on social media using #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek