Mental Health: A Workplace Priority
Your Mental Health is very important and how you see it will help your life your live to the fullest.
A little bit about me. My name’s Alan, and I have been working at LGP for 2 years now. I love that my workdays are always different. I talk to both councils and suppliers about contract spend (I’m hearing you say this is boring, but I love it). Most of you would know that I love to have support people to be their best, and to have some fun.
I’ve been thinking about doing a Mental Health First Aid course for a while now, especially after a few of the men at LGP went to a “Healthier Illawarra Men” luncheon. The luncheon was about men’s health generally, but also on how us blokes don’t see the doctor regularly, including discussing how our mental health is. This inspired me to complete this course and become a certified Mental Health First Aider.
I recently completed my Mental Health First Aid certificate. The course covered items like depression, anxiety, psychosis, panic attacks, and traumatic events. This opened our eyes and minds to things that may not have occurred in our workplaces or outside. The course teaches practical skills, knowledge, and confidence to make a difference wherever we are. It was intense, very informative, and sometimes confronting.
Here is an example of the framework from the course:
A – Assess the Risk – “Hi John, I’ve noticed you seem overwhelmed lately. Are you feeling safe right now?
L – Listen – “That sounds incredibly hard. Thank you for trusting me with it”
G – Give Reassurance – “Many people experience this, and support is available. You deserve help”
E – Encourage – “It might help to reach out to your GP or a counsellor. They’re trained to guide people through this”
E – Encourage self-help and other supports – “Is there someone you trust – a friend or family member – who could be part of your support network?”
Among many things, I’ve learned that each of us carries our own physical limitations and emotions, and these tender differences shape how we meet the world. Also know that every day can feel different to each of us. Some things will fall outside our control, and we find our way by adapting. That ability to adapt is its own quiet strength.
Mental health isn’t just a personal issue — it’s a workplace priority. When our workplaces invest in the wellbeing of their people, everyone benefits. It creates a kinder, healthier environment where people can do their best work and feel good doing it.
In closing, let me encourage you to help us change the stigma around mental health. Let’s be more compassionate and understanding to each other’s needs. When we make room for honest conversation and respond with patience and care, we create an environment where people feel safer sharing their experiences. Over time, these small moments of kindness build a more accepting culture, one where seeking help feels natural and supported. By recognising mental health as a normal part of being human, we help ensure that no one feels they have to face their struggles alone.
I’m truly grateful for the chance to take part in this course, and I look forward to supporting you whenever you need.