2 minute read
Charity Profile: Now more than ever
The Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand (MHF) is all about creating hope. At a time when we are facing increasing uncertainty in all areas of our lives, this charity is working towards creating a society where all people can enjoy positive mental health and wellbeing.
Not many of us could have fully predicted the impact of COVID-19 on the ways we work, socialise, travel, access healthcare, exercise, shop and live. It’s no wonder many people are feeling anxious, stressed, worried and scared.
“This is a time of increased pressure and stress for all New Zealanders,” says Lisa Ducat, Workplace Mental Health Promoter for MHF.
“For us to make good decisions, manage through additional stress and distress, and be ready for what’s next, we need to look after our whole selves.”
Lisa goes on to explain that our mental wellbeing is more than just feeling happy. It helps us do the things we need to get through our lives, allows us to face challenges, and to form relationships. These things help us feel good about ourselves.
MHF provides simple, usable and relevant, evidence-based tools and resources for workplaces to create an environment and culture that enhances and protects people’s mental health and wellbeing. The organisation also runs workshops, provides online resources and works with peak bodies, industry associations and public health organisations to advise and provide guidance. Despite the small size of the team, they are focused on reaching as many people as possible.
What advice does Lisa give organisations struggling to find a clear direction for their staff in the wellbeing space?
“Safety has to come first,” Lisa says. “If a member of staff isn’t feeling safe and is in high distress or fatigued, their brain will not be able to function at its best. This state of mind means their decision-making ability is limited, so too is creativity, risk assessment, and the ability to think of others’ needs.”
Lisa goes on to state that, to feel safe, the company needs to have supportive environments in place to help employees get through tough times. Often these are practical solutions or answers to the questions or worries employees have. “Sometimes, support might mean being listened to or having someone to share our concerns with. Support might also come in the form of work resources that allow us to do our job well. It’s important for staff to have a clear understanding of their job role at this time, expectations and access to information,” says Lisa.
The organisation offers a Five Ways to Wellbeing at Work toolkit, designed to improve mental wellness in the workplace. This toolkit includes fact sheets, tools, templates and games to use with teams. Also, Open Minds is a collection of online training materials, such as videos and posters, to equip managers with the tools and confidence to talk about mental health with teams and individuals. All tools are accessible via the MHF website.
https://www.mentalhealth.org. nz/assets/Working-Well/FINALWorking-Well-FS-The-businesscase-for-wellbeing-approved. pdf
MHF’s work is diverse and expansive, with campaigns and services covering all aspects of mental health and wellbeing. The organisation takes a holistic approach to mental health, promoting what it knows makes and keeps people mentally well. The work of the organisation is funded through donations, grants and contract income.
