This week is Mental Health Awareness Week. The theme for this year is 'Take Action'.
While raising awareness about mental health is important, this year focuses on the practical steps we can all take to support our own wellbeing and the mental health of those around us.
Suitable employment supports mental health by providing financial stability, routine, purpose and social connections. It can aid recovery from mental health conditions by increasing confidence and reducing isolation, but we all have a part to play in creating the conditions in the workplace which support this.
GFiE’s focus is on making sure that barriers to employment in the Civil Service are broken down, and in whatever role you decide to play (whether big or small), you can help us to achieve this.
Why taking action matters
Mental health affects us all. Taking action does not have to mean making drastic lifestyle changes. Small, consistent steps and knowing where to find the right support can make a significant difference to your daily life.
Take action for your own wellbeing
You might have heard the phrase ‘You can’t pour from an empty cup’, or heard the metaphor about an oxygen mask - just as in an airplane emergency, ignoring your own needs leads to burnout, exhaustion, and an inability to care for others. If you are finding things difficult, there are practical steps you can take today to support yourself:
- Speak to someone: Talk to a trusted friend, family member, or colleague about how you are feeling.
- Review your routine: Ensure you are taking regular breaks, getting enough sleep, and engaging in some form of physical activity. It shouldn’t be surprising that these simple steps can make such a difference, but it often is - and it can be difficult to get these right when you aren’t feeling at your best.
- Access self-help resources: The NHS website offers free, practical tips and audio guides for managing stress, anxiety, and low mood.
- Contact your GP: If your mental health is negatively affecting your daily life, take the step to book an appointment with your doctor.
The Mental Health Foundation has even more tips on how to look after your mental health, including getting creative and spending time in nature.
Take action to support GFiE
We want to create the best environment possible for colleagues who join us through one of the GFIE Life Chances pathways. There are different actions you can take to support us and them, whatever your role:
- Become a GFiE Buddy - if you’re currently a civil servant, you can help us welcome new colleagues into the Civil Service by becoming a buddy, acting as a listening ear for any queries or worries they may have as they begin their new roles. To find out more, get in touch!
- Raise awareness - it’s not unusual for people to wonder what it’s really like to be a Civil Servant, what an average working day might look like, or how they can access different opportunities. If you’re reading this blog now, we’d encourage you to think about how you could help to spread awareness - perhaps you know someone who is thinking about their future career?
- Take time to understand - an essential part of good mental health is connection, and connection often leads to a greater understanding of others and their lived experience. Sometimes the people we support can face stigma, which can be caused by a lack of understanding, so committing to taking time to listen to their experiences is a positive first step.
GFiE Life Chance Recruitment
GFiE creates life-changing opportunities for candidates who face significant barriers, helping the Civil Service to access a wider, more diverse pool of talent.
You can find more information about our GFiE Pathways at Civil Service Careers GFIE Pathway Page, or can contact us at GFiE@cabinetoffice.gov.uk
By making small, thoughtful changes, and by supporting initiatives like GFiE, we can build truly inclusive workplaces where everyone's value is recognised.
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