Lauren Lawson’s Post

🧠 **Prioritizing Mental Health: The Key to Personal and Professional Success** 🌟 In our fast-paced, competitive world, it's easy to overlook the importance of mental health. But here's the truth: a healthy mind is the foundation for success in every aspect of life. 🌈 **Embracing Well-being**: Mental health isn't just the absence of illness; it's the presence of well-being. It's about feeling balanced, resilient, and able to face life's challenges with a clear mind. 📈 **Boosting Performance**: Taking care of your mental health isn't a distraction from success; it's a catalyst for it. When we're mentally healthy, we're more focused, creative, and better at problem-solving. 🤝 **Supportive Environments**: Employers, leaders, and colleagues play a crucial role in creating environments that support mental health. Encouraging open conversations and providing resources can make a world of difference. 🧘♀️ **Self-Care Matters**: Remember, it's not selfish to prioritize self-care. Taking time for yourself, managing stress, and seeking help when needed are essential steps in maintaining mental wellness. 🚀 **Mental Health Is Professional Health**: Success in our careers is deeply intertwined with mental health. It enables us to navigate challenges, maintain productivity, and build strong relationships with colleagues and clients. ❤️ **Break the Stigma**: It's time to break the silence and stigma around mental health. Let's normalize discussions about mental wellness and offer support to those who may be struggling. 🌱 **Learn, Grow, Thrive**: We're all on a journey of growth. Part of that journey is learning about ourselves, understanding our mental health needs, and continually improving our well-being. 🌍 **A Better World for All**: As we advocate for mental health, we're not just making a personal impact but contributing to a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. 🙌 Let's create workplaces and communities that prioritize mental health. It's a step toward a brighter future for us all. 💬 What's your favorite mental health practice that helps you succeed personally and professionally? Share your thoughts and inspire others to make mental wellness a priority. #MentalHealthMatters #WellBeing #Success #SelfCare #EndTheStigma

🌟 Today is World Mental Health Day, a reminder that our well-being is just as important as our productivity. In fact, mental health is a universal human right 🧠💪 In the fast-paced world of work, it's easy to overlook our mental health. But the truth is, our mental well-being directly impacts our performance and the overall success of our organizations. It's not just a personal matter; it's a workplace issue. 💼🌆 Here are some simple yet powerful strategies to nurture your mental health at work and help create a supportive environment: 1️⃣ Prioritize Self-Care: Remember that self-care isn't selfish. The truth is that you cannot function if you're not well, and it is more than okay to say "I need a mental health day today." Schedule regular breaks, exercise, and practice mindfulness to recharge during the workday. 2️⃣ Open Communication: Encourage open dialogues about mental health in your workplace. Create a safe space for employees to share their challenges and seek support. 3️⃣ Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries between work and personal life. Overworking can (and will!) lead to burnout, which is detrimental for you and your organization. 4️⃣ Supportive Leadership: Leaders, be empathetic and understanding. Lead by example and encourage a culture of mental well-being - don't say you support your workforce's mental health while expecting them to be on the clock all the time or at random hours. Otherwise, you'll lose great people - did you know that burnout and lack of support and appreciation (both symptoms of a toxic workplace) are the #1 reasons why employees leave their jobs in the U.S.? 5️⃣ Training and Resources: Invest in mental health training and provide access to resources for your team. Knowledge is power, and it reduces stigma. At MCD, we offer free access to Headspace, an Employee Assistance Program, and a fitness reimbursement program. And, of course, I'm always available as a resource to employees if they just need someone to talk to. 6️⃣ Flexible Work Options: When possible, offer flexibility in work arrangements, allowing employees to manage their work in a way that suits their needs. Remember, it's okay not to be okay sometimes. Mental health struggles are a part of the human experience. By acknowledging and addressing them, we become stronger and more resilient individuals, both personally and professionally. Let's work together to create workplaces that prioritize mental health, where employees can thrive, and organizations can flourish. 💫 #WorldMentalHealthDay #MentalHealthMatters #WorkplaceWellbeing #SelfCare #Leadership #Support

🌟Embrace Your Mental Health: May is Mental Health Awareness Month! As we step into May, let's shine a light on something incredibly vital: our mental health. This month, we're joining hands to raise awareness, show support, and break the stigma surrounding mental health challenges. Each of us navigates our unique mental health journey, facing ups, downs, and everything in between. It's okay to not always feel okay, and it's crucial to remember that you are never alone. This May let's prioritize self-care and compassion. For me that's through my daily PQ practices that strengthen my Mental Fitness Muscles and allows me to tap into the Sage Power of Empathy for myself and others. Just as physical health requires attention, so does mental health, and it's essential to recognize that Mental Fitness complements, rather than replacing, other forms of mental health support. While therapy and professional guidance are crucial for individuals facing trauma or acute mental health challenges, our Mental Fitness empowers us to continue our growth journey and build resilient neuro pathways. I invite you to join me to normalize seeking support when needed, whether from friends, family, or mental health professionals. And while we're at it, consider how leadership, managers, and supervisors are uniquely positioned to foster a supportive environment that not only acknowledges but actively supports employee well-being. The pressures of deadlines, the balancing act between professional and personal responsibilities, and even the everyday tasks can become overwhelming, leading to stress, anxiety, and other mental health concerns. Strategies to Support Employee Mental Health: * Create an Open Environment * Offer Mental Health Resources * Encourage Regular Breaks and Time Off * Foster Community and Connection * Lead by Example * Include Mental Health in the Conversation * Spread Small Acts of Kindness Investing in mental health not only benefits employees but also the organization as a whole. Reduced absenteeism, increased productivity, and improved morale are just some of the positive outcomes. By taking steps to support mental health, leadership and managers can contribute to a healthier, more resilient workforce that is capable of facing challenges with strength and confidence. This Mental Health Awareness Month, take the initiative to make your workplace, community, and home a haven for mental wellness. Let's be the light in each other's lives. ✨  Share in the comments how you plan to prioritize your mental health this month or how you plan to be a light in someone else's life! #mentalhealthawarenessmonth2024 #mentalhealthawareness #kindness #bethelight #healthpriorities #together #mentalwellness

October is Mental Health Awareness Month and if you know me you know I am all about Mental Health @Work so as we continue to work toward #FromStigmaToSupport I thought I would share my frustrations, desires dreams and fears around the work we do with Mental Health @Work: ·     Frustrations: Throughout my career, I've encountered various frustrations when it comes to mental health in the workplace. The stigma that often surrounds mental health can make it challenging for employees to open up about their struggles. Identifying signs of stress, anxiety, or burnout can be difficult, and knowing how to support individuals in these situations can be even trickier. These frustrations have fuelled my determination to foster a more inclusive, supportive, and empathetic work environments. ·     Desires: My deepest desire as a people matters professional is to create workplaces where mental health is prioritised, understood, and valued just as much as physical health. I envision a culture where employees feel safe discussing their mental well-being, seeking help when needed, and achieving a healthy work-life balance. I aspire to lead by example, demonstrating that vulnerability and self-care are not weaknesses but strengths that lead to happier, more engaged, and productive teams. ·     Dreams: One of my dreams is to see mental health support programs seamlessly integrated into every organisation's fabric. From flexible work arrangements and access to robust and appropriate mental health professionals to wellness initiatives that promote mindfulness and self-care, these resources can empower employees to thrive both personally and professionally. I dream of a day when no one feels compelled to hide their mental health challenges at work and can instead find the support they need to flourish. ·     Fears: My greatest fear is that the workplace will remain an environment where mental health challenges are ignored or brushed aside. It's essential to recognise that these challenges affect us all, regardless of our job titles or seniority. Without proper attention, mental health issues can escalate, leading to employee burnout, decreased productivity, and high turnover rates. As a people matters professional, I fear failing to create a culture of empathy and support that helps mitigate these issues. During Mental Health Month, let's commit to breaking the silence surrounding mental health at work. Together, we can foster environments that not only acknowledge the importance of mental well-being but actively support and nurture it. By sharing our frustrations, desires, dreams, and fears, we can inspire positive change and pave the way for a brighter, mentally healthier future in the workplace. #Shiluvah #MentalHealthMatters #WorkplaceWellness #LeadershipInMentalHealth

Prioritizing Mental Health: A Crucial Aspect of Overall Well-being 🌟 In our fast-paced world, where the demands of daily life seem to be ever-increasing, it's essential to recognize and prioritize mental health. Mental well-being is not just the absence of mental illness; it encompasses a state of balance that allows individuals to cope with the challenges of life, work productively, and contribute to their communities. 1. Foundation for Physical Health: 💪 - Mental and physical health are intertwined. Neglecting mental well-being can impact physical health, leading to a range of issues such as weakened immune systems, cardiovascular problems, and chronic conditions. 2. Enhanced Productivity and Creativity: 🚀 - A healthy mind is a productive mind. Prioritizing mental health fosters better concentration, creativity, and problem-solving skills. Employers and individuals alike benefit from improved performance when mental well-being is acknowledged. 3. Stronger Relationships: ❤️ - Healthy relationships are built on understanding, empathy, and communication. Taking care of mental health enables individuals to connect with others more effectively, fostering deeper connections and reducing the risk of social isolation. 4. Resilience in the Face of Challenges: 🌈 - Life is full of ups and downs, and maintaining good mental health provides individuals with the resilience needed to navigate challenges. Coping mechanisms, stress management, and a positive mindset contribute to overcoming obstacles. 5. Reduced Stigma: 🤝 - Prioritizing mental health helps break down societal stigmas surrounding mental illnesses. Open conversations and awareness initiatives create a more supportive environment, encouraging individuals to seek help without fear of judgment. 6. Prevention of Mental Health Disorders: 🛡️ - Proactive steps toward mental well-being can prevent the development of more severe mental health disorders. Regular self-care, stress management, and seeking professional support when needed contribute to long-term mental health. 7. Overall Quality of Life: 🌟 - Ultimately, prioritizing mental health contributes to an improved overall quality of life. Individuals who invest time and effort into their mental well-being experience greater life satisfaction, happiness, and a sense of purpose. 🌐 In a world that often emphasizes external achievements, it's crucial to recognize that mental health is the foundation upon which a fulfilling and meaningful life is built. By prioritizing mental well-being, individuals not only benefit themselves but also contribute to a healthier, more compassionate society. It's time to embrace a holistic approach to health that includes the well-being of the mind. #MentalHealthAwareness #Wellbeing #Mindfulness #SelfCare #WorkLifeBalance #MentalHealthMatters #Productivity #Resilience #HealthyLiving #EmotionalWellness #StigmaFree #HolisticHealth #PositiveMindset #Empathy #LifeSatisfaction

Nurturing Mental Health and Well-being in the Modern World In today's fast-paced and often high-pressure environment, the importance of mental health and well-being cannot be overstated. As awareness grows, so does the understanding that mental health is just as critical as physical health to our overall well-being. Here's a closer look at the significance of mental health and practical steps we can all take to nurture it. ⭐Understanding Mental Health Mental health encompasses our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act, playing a crucial role in how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. Good mental health is not merely the absence of mental health issues but a state of overall well-being. #### The Impact of Modern Life Modern life, with its myriad pressures and constant connectivity, can take a toll on mental health. The rise of digital platforms, while offering connectivity, has also led to increased feelings of isolation, comparison, and anxiety for many. Balancing work, personal life, and the barrage of global crises can seem overwhelming, making it crucial to actively care for our mental well-being. Strategies for Enhancing Mental Well-being 1. Stay Connected: Building strong, positive relationships with friends and family can provide essential support and a sense of belonging. 2. Be Physically Active: Regular physical activity is a powerful mood booster. Even a short daily walk can significantly impact your mental and emotional health. 3. Learn Stress Management: Techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or yoga can help manage stress, reduce anxiety, and enhance mood. 4. Prioritize Sleep: Quality sleep directly affects mental and emotional health. Establishing a regular sleep routine can improve your mood and energy levels. 5. Seek Professional Help: Sometimes, we need professional support to deal with mental health challenges. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. ⭐The Role of Employers Recognizing the importance of mental health, more employers are now implementing initiatives to support employee well-being. These include offering mental health days, providing access to counseling services, and creating a culture where employees feel valued and heard. ⭐ Breaking the Stigma One of the biggest hurdles in addressing mental health is the stigma attached to it. Open conversations, education, and advocacy are vital in breaking down these barriers, allowing more people to seek and receive the help they need. Conclusion As we navigate the complexities of modern life, it's essential to prioritize our mental health and well-being. By adopting healthy habits, seeking support when needed, and fostering a supportive community, we can build resilience and thrive even in the face of challenges. Remember, it's okay to not be okay, and seeking help is a step toward healing and growth. #talentseve

⏱ Ditch the Script: Real Talk About Mental Health⏱ 🙃 The “How Are You?” Habit: We all know the script asking “How are you?” and responding “Well, thanks, and you?” This exchange doesn’t always reflect reality. 🤔 Beyond the Surface: We seldom know what’s really going on with other people especially when it comes to matters of mental health but we always know what’s going on with us. 😧The Mental Health Reality: Mental health issues are on the rise for people of all ages and backgrounds despite greater access to resources and reduced stigma on the subject. 📍 In 2022, 23.1% of U.S. adults experienced a mental health condition (SAMHSA) 📍Impact of depression and anxiety: $1 trillion in lost productivity annually (NAMI) 📍In 2023, nearly half of Gen Zs and 4 in 10 millennials reported feeling stressed or anxious all or most of the time (Deloitte) 📍2022 Deloitte Workplace Intelligence Survey Findings (US, UK, Canada, Australia): 70% of the C-suite considered quitting to find a job that better supports mental health and well-being with 89% stating well-being as a top priority (Deloitte, 2022 Workplace Intelligence survey) 🤹♂️ The Juggling Act:  In an increasingly complex world, we’re trying to balance personal commitments, professional demands, and constant stimulation from technology. 🤹♀️ No wonder we feel wired, tired, and overwhelmed! 😌 The Really Good News: We can proactively improve our mental health through really simple effective strategies that are low cost and don’t require a lot of time. 😊 These can benefit all but are*not* a replacement for professionals/resources that address diagnosed mental health conditions. 🏋♂️ Mental Fitness applies the same principles as physical fitness -- to get strong and optimize health, it requires consistent training and dedication. 🏋♀️ This improves how you feel, work, and respond to challenging situations or experiences. 👟 Just Do It, Consistently: Take ownership over your health and instead of thinking about what you *should* do, just do it but be consistent.  👟 Find a few strategies (suggestions below) that work best for you and repeat them daily for as little as 5 minutes. Assess how you feel every 30 days and adjust as needed. 👣Move your body through formal or informal activities (walking is so underrated) 🌻 Get outside and spend time in nature and eat healthier 📓 Quiet your mind through meditation, journaling, noticing your thoughts, practicing gratitudes, and establishing daily routines in the AM and PM 🕯Schedule breaks & disconnect by making time for rest and setting boundaries around screen time 🤝 Invest in relationships by spending time with family and friends  🎵 Engage in activities that bring you joy whether that’s reading a book, listening to music, playing with your pet, or watching a funny video 🎙Real Talk Challenge: How are you *really* doing? What can you commit to doing consistently to optimize your mental health? #mentalhealthawarenessmonth

Struggling With Mental Health? You Are Not Alone The impact of mental health struggles cannot be understated, especially within the context of the workplace. In our pursuit of success and productivity, we sometimes forget that our well-being should always come first. To those of you who are facing your own battles, please know you are not alone. Your pain is valid, and there is hope, even when it seems elusive. It's okay to ask for help, and lean on friends, family, or professionals who care about your well-being. Remember, seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness. In the workplace, the environment and culture play a pivotal role in our mental health. Employers, it is our collective responsibility to foster an atmosphere of understanding, empathy, and support. Here are some steps we can take: 👉 Promote Open Conversations: Create spaces where employees feel comfortable discussing their mental health without fear of stigma. Encourage managers to check in on their team members regularly. 👉 Flexible Work Arrangements: Acknowledge that everyone's needs are different. Offering flexible work hours or remote options can help reduce stress and improve work-life balance. 👉 Mental Health Resources: Provide access to mental health resources such as counselling services, employee assistance programs (EAPs), and mental health days. 👉 Training and Education: Train managers and staff in recognising signs of mental distress and how to respond with empathy and support. 👉 Inclusive Policies: Develop inclusive policies that accommodate individuals dealing with mental health issues, such as reasonable accommodations and compassionate leave policies. As individuals, we must also take charge of our own well-being: 👉 Self-care: Prioritise self-care and set boundaries. It's okay to say no when you need to recharge. 👉 Seek Help: Reach out to friends, family, or professionals when struggling. You don't have to carry the weight alone. 👉 Mindfulness: Practice mindfulness techniques to manage stress and stay mentally resilient. 👉 Support Others: Be attentive to your colleagues' well-being. Offer a listening ear, check in on them, and encourage open conversations about mental health. 👉 Education: Educate yourself and others about mental health. The more we understand, the better equipped we are to provide support. 👉 Destigmatise: Challenge stereotypes and stigmas surrounding mental health in your workplace. Share your experiences, if you feel comfortable, to break the stigma surrounding mental health. Encourage a culture of empathy and understanding. Today, let's pledge to be more compassionate, both to ourselves and to those around us. Together, we can be the change we wish to see. ICAS MENA #WorldSuicidePreventionDay #MentalHealthMatters #BreakTheSilence #YouAreNotAlone #YouMatter #MentalHealth

I don't know about you, but when I think of mental illness and mental health initiatives, I often think, where do we start? Despite increased awareness and meaningful days like RUOK Day, it feels like we're still facing rising challenges. But we don't want our efforts to be just lip service; we want to make a real difference 💙 Mental health issues are on the rise across the board. In 2007, mental illness affected 24% of 16-24 year-olds; now it's around 40%. Anxiety, burnout, and loneliness are all increasing📈 Numerous factors play a role, from changes in how we work to the impact of social media, natural disasters, and digital advances. The cost of mental illness is staggering; in Australia alone, it's estimated at $222 billion yearly, with a substantial chunk ($40 billion) happening in the workplace. 💼 So, what can we do at work to address this? Here are some initial thoughts: 1. Support awareness days, but remember, it's not just about one day a year. Build psychological safety in our teams so people feel comfortable discussing their mental health year-round. Trust and connection are key, because people are not going to seek support at work if they don't feel safe to do so. 2. Prioritize your own mental health with lifestyle changes: 🍃 Manage stress, cultivate a positive mindset, and practice mindfulness. 🍃Move daily, including making daily exercise part of your routine. 🍃Pay attention to nutrition; it matters. 🍃Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. 🍃Set boundaries and take breaks to balance work and life. 🍃Nurture connections with friends and family. 3. If you're a leader, take responsibility for supporting mental health at work: > Lead by example; it's okay to take breaks. > Respect others' boundaries outside of work hours, setting up an agreement for emergency calls if needed. > Evaluate your systems and processes for fairness and employee well-being. > Investing in your team's mental health pays dividends in loyalty, reputation, productivity, and longevity. And when it comes down to it, it is just the right thing to do. 🤝 There's much more to explore on this topic, so let's connect and chat further if you'd like to dive deeper into the conversation. Improving health and wellbeing at work is my number one priority and I'm excited to share that with you. 👋 As a wellbeing specialist, I work with businesses to make their teams happier and healthier through coaching, workshops, and strategic program design. If you'd like some help with your workplace wellbeing program, or you'd like to chat through your plans for 2024, get in touch and we'll set up a chat. #Mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthatwork #workplacewellbeing

- Mental health for the modern change maker. - Sometimes life can throw several challenges at you. You might feel like you've lost your path, it might be full of roadblocks or you can't figure out how to get from point A to B. You might feel stuck, unworthy, exhausted, disconnected, unsatisfied, unsure, lonely..   I am passionate about supporting you to discover and connect to your authentic self, beyond your childhood conditioning, traumas and high expectations of society, giving you the tools and moving forward feeling more: SAFE CONFIDENT RESILIENT GROUNDED CONNECTED to yourself, the people around you and your goals.   How can I help you?   I offer:   Individual therapy Couples therapy In-company wellbeing consultancy and employee wellbeing sessions   I welcome you to work together if you are dealing with: - relationship issues - career decisions - low self-esteem & unrealistic self-image - stress, work-life balance & wellbeing - clarity on your (professional) goals / life purpose - anxiety - depression - grief & loss - traumatic experiences   Why choose Kickstart You? I understand the lives of the fast-paced, modern high-achievers, creatives and changemakers in a digital world. The mindset, ambitions and expectations of Gen Z and Millennials are not a mystery to me. I challenge the status quo, just not at the expense of your mental health, balance and wellbeing. Together we dive to the core of your challenges quick, and we level to your needs and goals efficiently.  Oh, and I work in three fluent languages (English, Dutch, Bulgarian). This is what you can expect: - Putting personal connection first. -  In person or remote. It is up to you. Talking to your mental health professional during planned sessions only is so 2019. You have an open line with me 5 days a week through whatsapp and email. - Treating people, not symptoms. -  No protocols. No diagnosis. Not just a number. No contracts with insurers. Minimum administration. All attention to you. - Empowering you to be in charge of your health & wellbeing. -  Down to earth, practical, solutions oriented. Getting to the core of your challenges quick & with no fuzz. You are in charge of your process. - Culturally sensitive & inclusive. -  It is my statement to you. (& I uphold it quite fiercely.) - Adaptive & versatile. - A ppolymath in mental health - using a variety of scientifically proven methods & therapies to support you.  I work with Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), EMDR, couples therapy, COMET, Single Session Therapy (SST), solutions based therapy and schema focused therapy. I use a mix of methods catered specifically to your challenges and goals in question. -Endless therapy? - Hell no. 😉 I value you as a client until I retire. But I am thrilled when you decide to not see me anymore. ;)  Of course, you're welcome again any time in the future when you need holistic health support. Plan your discovery call: Kristina@kickstartyou.nl