Wellness

Mental health, wellbeing, and resilience are critical in the consulting and engineering sectors; this has become even more apparent in the wake of COVID-19.

An ACE webinar presented by the Mental Health Foundation's Chief Executive Shaun Robinson focussed on how we look after ourselves and the people we work with.

He says people who are lucky enough to be employed spend a lot of time at work and the atmosphere in the workplace will have a significant impact on people's lives. Studies show that there is a four to one return on investment in mental health in the workplace. 

The impact of COVID-19 on the workforce has introduced some new issues to maintaining mental health. Workers are urged to use the phrase 'working from home' rather than 'work in isolation." Managers should regularly check in with team members who are working from home, ensure there are support mechanisms available for staff and practice compassion when enforcing work responsibilities and productivity.

Watch the Mental Health, Wellbeing and Resilience with Shaun Robinson webinar

The Mental Health Foundation has developed The Five Ways to Wellbeing at Work Toolkit. The five steps that are the cornerstones of the toolkit are proven to help people find balance, build resilience and boost mental health and wellbeing.

The toolkit is also useful in helping workplaces meet their health and safety obligations in managing risks to mental health and wellbeing.

The five steps are:

  1. Connect: Talk and listen, be there, feel connected

  2. Give: Your time, your words, your presence

  3. Take notice: Remember the simple things that give joy
  4. Keep learning: Embrace new experiences, see opportunities, surprise yourself

  5. Be active: Do what you can, enjoy what you do, move your mood

View the toolkit

Other information you might find useful:

Te Whare Tapa Whā: This is a Māori model of health and wellbeing. The essence of these concepts is to keep each other well. Te Whare Tapa Whā

Getting Through Together: This is a COVID-19 specific campaign which includes practical tips for looking after yourself and your whānau. Getting Through Together