Today is World Mental Health Day. The increase in mental health awareness has increased exponentially since the COVID pandemic. What makes anything different from pre-COVID? Why all the bother?

Just about every person, family, community and workplace changed when the lockdown for COVID-19 hit the world. Most families were affected by suddenly having to work at home, in areas not necessarily conducive or appropriate for professional work. Children had to be home schooled, and everything became an online, virtual activity. Chaos ensued and stress levels sky-rocketed regarding the ‘new reality’ and the vast unknown.

The upside about the lockdown was the realisation and focus on the effect of stress on mental wellbeing. The statistics published by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) in 2023 indicate that self-reported stress levels have significantly increased, and have not reduced post-COVID.

While some of us may be comfortable talking about our own challenges and difficulties around life and work, many aren’t. Some like to be very private about personal issues and colleagues may not know or identify what someone is having to deal with.

Many organisations have wellbeing programmes that can be accessed at no cost, and anonymously. Mental wellbeing first aiders are also available to assist colleagues.

Hybrid working is still prevalent. Whilst, on the upside, it allows flexibility, lone work without human contact could be a stressor for others.

Being there for colleagues and just reaching out from time to time to check how they are if not seen for a while could help. ‘Check ins’ with colleagues from time to time also allow some level of contact and relaxed interactions.

Being aware of mood changes and withdrawing from interactions could be indications of a colleague with a challenge. Simply engaging with people and checking in on them could make all difference to one person, and change their world.