On the inside it can be a dark and lonely place

Regular BGA member and KBIS blogger Lucy Fletcher speaks out about mental health and well-being.

“Following Mental Health Awareness Week [May 2019] and the launch of Employers Minds this month I wanted to focus on a hugely important subject ‘Mental awareness at work’.

Sadly, the symptoms of mental health issues are too often missed because, in general, employers and employees are not trained to recognise the all-important signs that a work colleague may be suffering in silence.

It’s even harder when there may not be any visible signs, which is forgivable for missing, but I feel that all workplaces should be made aware of the warning signs that someone is suffering.

When we think of mental awareness and well-being at work it’s important not to forget that someone’s personal life can have a huge impact on their job.

But if someone is uncharacteristically quiet or withdrawn, over-reactive or struggling to cope with their usual work load it might feel a relief for them to talk to you if you approach it in the correct manner.

Mental health comes in all forms and severities but no matter how minor it may seem people need help and support as soon as possible to avoid escalation of the illness.

Mental health can be triggered off balance so easily, and it could just be something minor that sets it off.

In my experience the most targeted people are those who lack confidence, they are too afraid to speak up and this can cause all sorts of problems later in life. However if you’re reading and resonating with this do get help - speaking to the right people and getting support can turn a negative situation into a positive ending.

I truly missed animal nursing for the next 22 years before the opportunity to do equine nursing came about and I felt I could restore that confidence. Don’t get me wrong, I still meet people who ‘peacock’ but I can deal with them and crush their feathery bloom back to where it should be if required!

This is a skill that clearly takes years but that is because all those years ago, I didn’t speak up or get the help I needed leaving me now feeling passionate that the correct support is available for all.

The BGA are doing a fantastic amount of work with mental awareness and well-being and this is something we all really need to put out there.

I opened up about my depression today for the first time on Facebook. In the past, it has always been something I have hidden and actually for those that do not know me well, wouldn’t even have a clue!

I always go into work with a smile on my face, laugh and enjoy life as much as I can and feel expelled to create a happy workplace.

But by opening up I have been surprised at how many lovely family and friends have offered love and support to me. I still feel a little embarrassed that I have put it on social media but you know what – that’s me!

It doesn’t make me a bad person, it doesn’t hurt anyone or define who I am, but, it is hard when little comments that should mean nothing hit you like a dark arrow and can push you back into that lonely place.

But now I know I’m not alone and that there is so much out there to help people like me and others suffering in the same way.

So readers, remember those peacocks and how you need to keep them in check, never be afraid to speak your mind and there is always someone nearby to listen.

Do not be embarrassed or afraid because you will feel a huge release of pressure just by facing the issues and calling for help. Have a look at Grooms Minds – it really is fantastic what is in there.

And finally remember ‘It’s ok not to be ok.’

Lucy x

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