Time to Talk Day 2020

Since 2014, Time to Change recognises Time to Talk Day on the 6^th February. They encourage people worldwide to spread awareness and talk about mental health more freely. They are working to alter the way that we all think and act about mental health and strongly believe that by getting people to open up to friends and family about their mental health issues, it will help save lives. This year, according to Time to Change, “Around 1 in 4 people experience a mental health problem every year, yet the shame and silence are often as bad as the problem itself. No one should have to fear being treated differently because of a mental health problem.”

As it is Time to Talk Day, Natta wanted to do more to show our support and commitment to our employees. We value the importance of stress, health and wellbeing of our workforce. We want to help our staff be physically and mentally fit so that they can perform at their best and live healthy and full lives. We want everyone to be more open about mental health – to talk, to listen, to change lives, which is why, this year, we’re also promoting the popular game ‘Would you rather?’ to help break the ice and get the conversation flowing.

Natta is a supporting member of ‘Mates in Mind‘, a registered UK charity committed to raising awareness and promoting positive mental wellbeing across workplaces. Together with ‘Mates in Mind’, Natta will commit to raising awareness and changing the perception of mental health.

We have adopted other initiatives for our workforce, including Mental Health First Aid Courses and Health and Wellbeing Assessments for all operatives. We also run yearly Critical Medicals for our Plant Drivers.

So, how can you look after your own mental health both in and out of work?

• Have a conversation about mental health with a friend or family member to break down the silence and shame around a subject. It’s often easier to talk side-by-side instead of face to face, for example when you’re cooking, driving or walking somewhere. If you don’t feel comfortable talking to someone you know, it is worthwhile speaking to a therapist as they are able to give an impartial opinion.
• Physical health goes hand in hand with your mental wellbeing, so it’s important to ensure you’re getting plenty of sleep (7-8 hours minimum), eating well, drinking at least 2L water a day and reducing your alcohol intake.
• Enjoying yourself helps reduce stress, so try doing an activity that makes you happy – this usually means you’re good at it and achieving something will boost your self-esteem. For example, try focusing on a hobby like gardening, meditation or even simply doing a crossword puzzle. Doing a mindful activity like this can help you forget your worries and focus your mind elsewhere.

According to the Mental Health Foundation, “Two-thirds of us experience a mental health problem in our lifetimes and stress is a key factor in this.”

Stress is part of everyday life, but getting overwhelmed by stress can cause mental health issues such as anxiety, depression or even self-harm. To help you deal with stress in your daily lives, Mediation and Mindful Breathing is a proven way to help you quickly destress and re-centre yourself – reset to zero.

The following video from Headspace is an easy step-by-step tutorial to help you practice mindful breathing.

Natta’s Wellness Statement 

The Natta Group recognises that well-being is essential for people and our organisation. Collaboratively we have obligations to look after the physical and mental well-being of our employees. Natta aims to provide a positive working environment which allows an employee to flourish and achieve their full potential for the benefit of themselves and the organisation. Through the integration of well-being in all work activities and practices, a positive environment can be created that is compatible with promoting staff engagement, performance and achievement. When people are happy and well, businesses can thrive and societies flourish.