Here’s what I know: mental health is as important as physical health

The last few weeks have seen more rapid change to our daily lives, with further amendments to the rules around workspaces and private gatherings, and additional areas and regions being brought under increased measures.

It’s a confusing and challenging time for everyone as we try to stay as COVID-safe as we can whilst keeping our economy going and our workplaces operational.

Such changes and fluctuations can of course affect people's wellbeing and overall sense of confidence and security.

It’s important as an employer to be alert to and aware of the need to look after your employees’ mental health, particularly when they may be working in more isolated environments where they may not have access to the support and companionship of their colleagues and broader working community.  

Something to think about to help employees deal with any issues they may be facing at the moment is an EAP (Employee Assistance Programme).

An EAP, such as those offered by Health Assured, allows your employees to access a totally confidential 24/7 helpline with a qualified, experienced counsellor at the end of the phone to talk things through with.  

Whatever the problem may be, Health Assured's team can give advice and guidance entirely confidentially and, should your employees need more assistance, can provide face-to-face counselling and other support.

It enables them to remain productive and prevents problems from escalating so as an employer it makes commercial sense as well as ensuring you are watching out for your employees' well-being. 

Health Assured has launched a series of programmes on its new channel Bright TV. The series connects users of the service with well-known names and faces discussing their own lives, experiences and struggles. The first episode featuring Dame Kelly Holmes is a powerful watch.

It makes you realise that everyone, however famous or seemingly successful they are, can struggle with these issues at some point in their life.

At Health Assured, trained counsellors are there to help and we believe this is an essential service. We offer it to our own people at Peninsula and the feedback is tremendous.   

If you think an EAP from Health Assured is something your employees might find of value during these difficult times, then give our team a call on 0800 028 2420 and we can talk you through the options.

And if you’re already signed up then do remember to encourage your employees to use the service whenever they need. It could just make the difference if they are going through a difficult time.