Creating a Mentally Healthy Small Business Keynote by Leanne Faulkner Summary notes prepared by Karen Harmsen Leanne Faulkner, a small business mental health advocate, spoke about red flags for mental health that can be observed in yourself and others. She challenged us to recognise these flags and delve deep into recognising the real stressors and then be brave about making positive change. H – Habits – Focus on improving your basic habits . O – Observation. Self-observation in times of discomfort – “What’s going on for me with this?” P – Power – What makes us feel powerful at work? E – Engagement – Find your wing man for your wellness team.
Key Take Aways 1. We risk increasing our Allostatic Load* if we don’t address the stressors in our world and the negative effect is increased over time. *Allostatic Load - "the wear and tear on the body" which accumulates as an individual is exposed to repeated or chronic stress. The signs of increased Allostatic Load are Unclear thinking, inability to make decisions, denial obsession, changes in behaviour or attitude e.g. effects our ability to be optimistic, minimal family time e.g. withdrawal and changes in social participation opportunities.
2. Habits – Take time to develop your wellbeing-inducing habits We are all familiar with what habits support our wellbeing: spending time in nature, drinking plenty of water, practicing mindfulness, eating sufficient vegetables, getting good quality sleep, taking time to move and so on. Take some time to develop new habits where necessary to support your well being.
3.Observation – Take time to observe in times of discomfort How we want people to see us vs. how we think people see us creates a gap. It is this gap that oftentimes cause huge anxiety. We say “I’m so stressed” but what are we really saying? We need to create a habit of stopping, taking a breath and then asking ourselves what is really going on? Followed by the question “is that true?” There’s power in a breath – the sacred pause.
4. Power v Dependency Job control and job autonomy are widely evidenced in contributing to the greatest well-being in the workplace. Spend time identifying what makes you feel powerful at work (NB power = control over tasks, not people) E.g. increased sales, records up to date, financial buffer, eating and sleeping well, organising your family, Sunday night week planning session. Prioritise self-care – We can only look after others when we look after ourselves.
5. Engagement Younger people are more comfortable with discussing mental health issues, says Faulkner, and it’s up to all generations to bring this discussion to the table. Create safe spaces When you identify someone whose behaviour has changed, find somewhere quiet and private to talk; focus on behaviours and not emotions; allow time to listen and discover what the person is really saying; collaborate on a solution; and connect the person to additional resources. Identify your support person We all need someone who allows us space to unload; who listens to us unconditionally, and supports us. Find your wing man /cheerleader.