Mental Health First Aid Training for Conversations That Count

Did you know that around 1 in 7 people in the UK are neurodivergent? That means in most teams, there are individuals whose brains work differently to the majority. Whether it’s autism, ADHD, dyslexia, or dyspraxia, these differences bring unique strengths: pattern recognition, creative problem-solving, and hyper-focus. However... many neurodivergent employees don’t disclose their condition, because they fear being judged, misunderstood, or labelled as "difficult." When we fail to understand how our teams think and work, we miss out on some of the brightest minds. We also risk burnout, disengagement, and losing talented people to employers who do get it. My new Neurodiversity in the Workplace training helps you flip the script. It moves beyond basic awareness to practical strategies for creating an environment where everyone can thrive. When we support neurodivergent staff properly, we elevate the whole team. Curious about how to build a more inclusive culture? Check out my upcoming courses (available as a 1-hour Awareness session or a 5-hour Champion workshop) - link in bio. #Neurodiversity #InclusiveWorkplace #TalentManagement #MHFA

From construction sites to creative studios, every workplace benefits from a team that knows how to look out for each other. Swipe through to see how different sectors use MHFA to build resilience and reduce stigma. Which sector do you work in? How could MHFA help your team? 👇 It’s National Inclusion Week, so let’s get some conversations going! To find out more about becoming a MHFAider® or to refresh your training visit: https://www.developmentaluk.co.uk/our-courses #MentalHealthFirstAid #MHFA #WorkplaceCulture #TeamResilience #NationalInclusionWeek

It can feel incredibly lonely when the world is bright, busy, and seemingly happy, but your stomach is heavy with loss. We often think of grief as something that happens immediately after a tragedy, but it has no schedule. It can sit beside us on a sunny Monday in September. One of the hardest parts of supporting someone who is grieving is not knowing what they need. Some people find comfort in talking about their loved one; others prefer to keep things private. This uncertainty often stops us from asking anything at all, for fear of causing pain. But carry this forward: it is usually better to ask gently and step back if they decline, than to leave them wondering if anyone cares enough to notice. As Mental Health First Aiders, we learn that there is no 'right' way to grieve. There is only the way that helps each person carry their load. If you see someone struggling, even subtly, a simple "I’m here if you want to talk" or "How are you really doing?" can be a lifeline. #GriefAwareness #MentalHealthFirstAid #MHFA #CompassionateLeadership

This #WorldSuicidePreventionDay, I'm sharing an important message: if you think someone might be suicidal, take action, interrupt their thoughts and show them you care 💚 How do you interrupt suicidal thoughts? With moments of human connection 👉 Find a supportive guide on my blog. #SuicideAwareness #mentalhealthfirstaid #mentalhealthsupport #HumanConnection

People often ask me what my job actually involves. You’d probably assume there are slides involved (and yes, there absolutely are!), but the majority of my time is spent in conversation. I am simply making sure they happen, in a safe, joyful way. Here are three things I focus on every day: 💚 Creating Safety My primary goal is to ensure every learner feels safe enough to be vulnerable. If people are afraid of judgment, they won’t share their experiences, and without sharing, there is no learning. I spend a lot of energy building trust before we even touch the topics. 💚 Challenging Stigma I actively listen for unhelpful language or assumptions and gently challenge them. Maybe it’s a comment about "just snapping out of it" or "keeping it professional." These moments are where real change happens and we replace shame with understanding. 💚 Empowering Action Knowledge is power, but action is transformation. I teach practical steps such as: 🔹How do you start a conversation? 🔹Where do you find local on online resources? 🔹How do you look after yourself while helping others? I want my learners to leave feeling capable, not overwhelmed. Teaching Mental Health First Aid is joyful work because it reminds us of our shared humanity. We are all capable of kindness, we just need the practice. What’s one thing you’ve learned about mental health recently that changed your perspective? If you’d like to start your MHFA exploration, visit: https://www.developmentaluk.co.uk/upcoming-courses-and-booking #MHFAInstructor #MentalHealthEducation #StigmaFree #Kindness

I've been learning so much about Neurodiversity and every step has been fascinating. I'm excited to share more about it with you on my feed, and in my teaching. Let me know in the comments what Neurodiversity currently looks like in your workplace. Is it seen and adapted to? Or left unnoticed or ignored? Help your workplace embrace Neurodiversity with my new training course (link in bio) #neurodiversityatwork #WhatIsNeurodiversity

As Mental Health First Aiders, we know that the first step in helping anyone in crisis is listening without judgment. When someone is struggling with addiction, they don’t need us to have all the answers, but rather to hold space, show empathy, and understand that addiction is a medical condition, not a moral failing. If we can help by signposting where they can find practical support, even better. Like any mental health challenge, it thrives in isolation but begins to heal in connection. Don’t leave others feeling alone in the dark – reach out and listen. Learn more about overdose and find support resources here: @OverdoseAwarenessDay 👇 How are you creating a judgment-free zone in your workplace? Are your team able to talk openly about what they are dealing with, without fear of stigma? #25YearsStillNeeded #IOAD2026 #EndOverdose #MentalHealthFirstAid #ListenWithoutJudging #EndTheStigma

It’s one of the most common questions I hear from potential Mental Health First Aiders - and it’s a completely understandable fear! Let’s clear the air: No, you cannot be sued for acting in good faith as a Mental Health First Aider. Here is why: 1️⃣ You are not a clinician. MHFA training does not qualify you to diagnose or treat mental health conditions. Your role is strictly to listen, support, and signpost to professional help. You are a bridge to finding answers, not a solver of problems. 2️⃣ The Legal Duty lies with the Employer. Under UK health and safety law (specifically the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999), it is the employer who has the legal obligation to assess risks and provide adequate welfare provisions. The MHFA scheme is a tool they use to meet this duty. The liability rests with the organisation, not the individual. 3️⃣ "Good Samaritan" Protection. As long as you act within the scope of your training, maintain confidentiality, and do not intentionally cause harm, you are protected. Courts recognise that laypeople stepping in to help during a crisis should not face litigation for honest mistakes made in an emergency. 4️⃣ Confidentiality is Key. Your main legal risk isn’t giving advice; it’s breaking confidence. As long as you keep what is shared private (unless there is an immediate risk of serious harm to self or others), you are fulfilling your ethical and legal responsibilities. Being an MHFA is about compassion, not clinical expertise. If you stick to the ALGEE action plan (Assess, Listen, Give reassurance, Encourage professional help, Encourage self-help), you are doing exactly what you were trained to do. Don’t let fear stop you from helping someone in need. #MentalHealthFirstAid #LegalRights #WorkplaceSafety #MHFA #EmploymentLaw

I’ve recently been working with an international bank, who have fully embraced mental wellbeing for their staff, not just as an obligation but as an investment. This is some feedback from one of the team on the course: “I found the course to be highly engaging and insightful. The structure, pace, and facilitation were very effective, and the interactive elements made the content easy to absorb. I particularly valued the safe learning environment, which allowed for open discussion and reflection. I would highly recommend this course to others. Thank you, Julia, for the amazing experience!” It’s a joy to be able to work with organisations who are committed to change and growth, especially in sectors where pressure can be high. No workplace is too big, or too small, to put mental health first! #MentalHealthAtWork #mentalhealthtraining #mentalhealthcourses

It’s Never Give Up Day - but if you think resilience is about gritting your teeth and ignoring your pain until you break… I just want to give you such a hug! Please know that, rather than struggle, resilience is rooted in awareness… When we understand how our brains work under stress, we stop seeing setbacks as personal failures and start seeing them as data. We learn that rest is not laziness, that asking for help is not weakness, and that tomorrow is indeed another day, provided we treat ourselves kindly today. Mental Health First Aid training does more than teach you how to spot a crisis in others. It equips you with the tools to support our own mental fitness. It helps you to build the emotional muscles needed to show up, day after day, even when the path is unclear. When we normalise conversations about mental health, we create environments where people feel safe to struggle, safe to recover, and safe to keep going. This week, check in with yourself. What small act of self-care will help you feel ready for tomorrow? #NeverGiveUpDay #Resilience #MentalHealthAwareness #SelfCare

We often talk about mental health as a moral imperative, but it’s also important to think about it as a business strategy 💼 The real cost of poor mental health at work goes far beyond absenteeism. It hides in presenteeism, sky-high turnover rates, and silent productivity losses. Most businesses underestimate these hidden drains until they become critical. Swipe through to see the true impact – and why investing in Mental Health First Aid is one of the smartest moves you can make for your organisation. Which of these costs do you think is hardest for leaders to quantify? Let me know in the comments. 👇 #MentalHealthAtWork #BusinessStrategy #MHFA #Productivity #StaffRetention

I recently attended Wiltshire Council's 6-week course on Neurodiversity in Teenagers. It’s been really interesting, exploring not just how overwhelm builds, but also for learning some fairly simple adaptions that can be made to allow kids to thrive without feeling self-conscious. The trainers of the course are school teachers themselves, and it's been heartwarming to see the time, dedication and care they put in to supporting children. Neurodiversity is an area I am passionately interested in understanding as much as possible. With each course I both receive and deliver, the greater my knowledge and understanding grows - which, in turn, I can bring to my own courses Have you been learning new things recently? Share below! #MentalHealthFirstAid #NeurodiversityAtWork #KeepLearning

Ready to become a Mental Health First Aider? Take the leap, and train up your team too, to create a more supportive workplace for everyone… Check my website for the latest course dates available – and if you can’t find one that fits, reach out to me. I can’t wait to meet you! To find out more about becoming a MHFAider® or to refresh your training visit my website - linked in bio! #MHFACourses #MHFATraining #MentalHealthCourses

Why not treat mental health support as something that runs through the whole of working life? From day one induction, through to retirement. Wouldn’t every day feel better for all of us? 🟡 For employers, it starts before someone joins: A structured, inclusive recruitment process with transparent expectations and genuine flexibility signals from the outset what kind of organisation someone is entering. When onboarding ask about working styles and support needs, and connect new starters with the people and resources that will help them thrive 🟡 For managers, it’s building culture day-to-day: It’s check-in that goes beyond task updates. A team meeting where different ways of contributing are welcomed or a response to a mistake that invites learning. The small moments matter as much as the formal ones. 🟡 For employees, action can start today: Checking in with a new starter or taking a proper break and encouraging a colleague to do the same. How about sharing honest feedback that helps the organisation understand what’s working and what isn’t? These small gestures are how culture shifts from the inside. When you do all of the above well, people want to stay, because they feel heard, valued, and supported to bring their whole selves to work. #MyWholeSelf #MHFA #MentalHealthForAll

Hello! If you’ve thought about training in Metal Health First Aid, but the fear of the unknown has put you off – here’s the face of your trainer to welcome you on board and tell you it’s all going to be ok! 👋🙂 I’m Julia and I intentionally make my training safe, kind and joyful – I want you to feel able to be yourself, ask questions, and enjoy the process! I promise it’s not scary, you’ll never feel judged and you’ll leave feeling more confident about feelings! Find out more and check out available course dates at the link in my bio. #MHFA #MHFAInstructor #MentalHealthTraining

Do you know the 7 pillars of self-care? They represent a holistic framework encompassing physical, mental, emotional, environmental, spiritual, recreational, and social health. Which of these do you find easiest to bring into your days? And which is hardest? #SelfCareIs #SelfCareDay

Something I think about a lot is the gap between how someone appears at work and what they're actually managing internally. Take dyslexia: it makes reading and writing difficult, and those who deal with it are always adapting and finding better ways to navigate a world which doesn’t adapt to them. When someone has spent years being told they're not trying hard enough or feeling like they have to work twice as hard to keep up or trying to mask their difficulties so no one notices - that leaves a mark. Anxiety, low self-esteem, and burnout are all disproportionately common in people with dyslexia. And yet, in many workplaces, we're still not having conversations about it. Understanding neurodiversity is about recognising the whole person, including the emotional weight they might be carrying. #Neurodiversity #NeurodiversityAtWork #Dyslexia

Reviews are so important for training like mine. People can be hesitant to explore mental health, but when we hear positive feedback from others we start opening our hearts and minds to it more. Whether you train with me or with another MHFA instructor, it doesn’t matter – just become a Mental Health First Aider and start spreading the support! “I loved the course. Especially the group discussions, exercises, very good educational videos. The course has made me rethink of what language is the most appropriate to use when dealing with people when they are struggling with their mental health. ALGEE is a really good method for defining simply what is the role and value of mental health first aiding. Last but not least, Julia is a great instructor, very kind and knowledgeable. And everyone in the group had interesting insights from their life on mental health topics. I also think that the skills that I have learnt in the course will help me in all of my relationships by improving my communication and listening skills.” - Anon If you’d like to train with me, I’d love to meet you! Find out more about becoming a MHFAider® visit my website - linked in bio.

Lead from the top. Lead by example. Lead with mental health awareness and make sure all those who work for you know it is a priority in your company. Mental Health First Aid is a training which everybody can use and benefit from. It crosses over levels and job titles. It’s for those working on the frontline of your business, and for the leaders and the managers too. If you want to train up your management team with skills they can put into action straightaway, reach out to me for a chat. #MentalHealthforManagers #MentalHealthTraining #MentalHealthConversations #MentalHealthCulture

When you hear the words “Self-Care Routine”, how does it make you feel? Does it put you in a positive frame of mind, thinking about relaxing or doing things you enjoy? Or does it make you feel a little tense, thinking that you don’t have time for a whole routine? The “self-care routine” videos that often pop-up tend to focus on dedicated moments of self-focus – perhaps enjoying a bath, using special skincare or reading a book. These can all be versions of self-care but it’s important to remember that self care is actually more than a routine. It’s a way of life, that encompasses things like making the bed each morning, basic hygiene, eating well, sleeping well, setting boundaries, noticing unhelpful thought patterns, talking to people we trust, expressing ourselves creatively and having a comfortable chair to sit on while we work. All of these types of things don’t necessarily mean setting aside dedicated portions of time, but of making them everyday normalcies. Does having a self care “routine” help you, or does it feel unattainable? Let me know in the comments. #SelfCareMonth #SelfCareIdeas #EverydaySelfCare #SelfCareRoutine

When you’re training in mental Health First Aid you won’t ever be left to figure things out alone. You’ll have support from the very start, and one form that support comes in is with your own workbook that sits by your side throughout the course and goes forwards with you into the world beyond. Fill it with notes, doodle your thoughts and questions, circle the bits that resonate most. It will become a resource you can keep referring back to whenever you need it. Of course, you’ll also have me throughout your training, to throw questions at and discuss scenarios with 🙂 AND you’ll get access to: 👉 the MHFA Support App which gives you a space to record notes and find resources you can signpost others to 👉 the MHFA Association, which connects you with a network of other MHFAiders® Ready to make a change? 💚 #MHFA #MentalHealthFirstAid #MentalHealthTraining

Most people who come on an MHFA course arrive with the same feeling: I want to help, I just don't know how. A few days later, that changes. Swipe through to see the journey of becoming a Mental Health First Aider - from those early doubts, through the training itself, to going back into your workplace feeling genuinely equipped to make a difference. If this resonates with you or you think it's time your workplace had someone in that role, drop me a message. I'd love to chat. 💚 #MentalHealthFirstAid #MHFA #WorkplaceWellbeing #MentalHealthAtWork #LeadershipDevelopment

We hear about toxic workplaces way too often – let’s make them safe spaces we can all feel welcome to walk into. All you need to start is an open mind and some Mental Health First Aid training. Jump on board, I can show you the way! Find out more about becoming a MHFAider® via my links in bio! #MentalHealthFirstAid #MentalHealthTraining #MHFAInstructor

We've made real progress in opening up conversations about men's mental health, but in many workplaces, there's still an unspoken expectation that dads just... cope. That they'll absorb the sleepless nights, the financial pressure and the mental load, and show up Monday morning ready to go. The truth is fathers experience postnatal depression too. They experience burnout, anxiety, and loneliness, often without anyone thinking to check in. Having trained Mental Health First Aiders in your workplace means someone is equipped to notice when a colleague isn't quite themselves - regardless of whether they'd ever think to ask for help themselves. If this resonates, I'd love to chat about what MHFA training could look like for your team. Drop me a message. 💚 # IFMHD #ParentsMentalHealth

PTSD doesn't announce itself and it doesn't always look like crisis. Sometimes it just looks like someone who's a bit quiet, or seems stressed, or keeps to themselves. Maybe there’s a person at your workplace who is showing up and hitting deadlines, but who is carrying the weight of exhaustion from nights of no sleep. They might flinch at sudden noises or find certain conversations harder than they let on. They might be carrying something from years ago that never really went away. It feels like a good moment to ask: does your workplace have people in it who'd know how to gently open the door to a conversation? That's what Mental Health First Aid training is really about. Fixing people is not our goal here. We just want to make sure someone knows how to notice, and how to ask. What's one thing you wish more workplaces understood about how trauma shows up at work? I'd love to hear your thoughts 👇 #PTSDAwareness #MentalHealthFirstAid

Loneliness is something many of us experience, but don’t always talk about. And the longer we feel lonely the more we start to isolate ourselves – meaning we can fall into a cycle of loneliness. Loneliness is a normal emotion, but if left unchecked it can develop into a mental health condition such as anxiety or depression. Lonely feelings are a prompt for us to seek out positive social connection. 💬 Loneliness is usually situational. When or where do you feel lonely? How do you address it when you do? Share your thoughts in the comments and we can help get the conversation going. This week is Loneliness Awareness Week - and this year marks 10 years of the campaign. Spread the word about #LonelinessAwarenessWeek and help give loneliness a voice. Find out more via @marmalade_trust #LonelinessAwarenessWeek #GlobalLonelinessAwarenessWeek

Because of you, DevelopMentalUK is able to sponsor, donate and give back. THANK YOU. Last year I was able to sponsor the following charities and organisations (please do check out their work!): 💚 Alabare - supporting the Homeless and those in crisis. The financial crisis can be seen in the rise of the homeless. Often these individuals have long standing experiences of poor mental health. 💚British Heart Foundation - heart and circulatory disease are the biggest killers globally. Ill health and bereavement have huge ripple effects on mental wellbeing. 💚Comic Relief - happy to support so many organisations doing so many fantastic things at local level. What a great cause. 💚Greenpeace (not a charity so they can lobby the government) - Time and again individuals tell me that time out in the wild or walking the dog out in nature in fundamental to their mental health. At a time of incredible environmental pressure, campaigning to protect our greenspaces is something I am only too glad to do. I have spoken at length with Greenpeace to understand how they currently run their organisation and am delighted to support their team. 💚Plan International - my 4th year sponsoring little Elvir and his community in Honduras. Prior to that I sponsored Rosa in Peru for up to her 18th Birthday. I have now been a sponsor of this fabulous charity for over 15 years. 💚Red Cross - supporting those in crisis world wide. At the time of writing the Red Cross are currently operating in the UK, Gaza, the Middle East, Afghanistan, The Yemen, various african regions experiencing food crisis, to name a few. 💚Salisbury Hospice - giving incredible moments of joy for those in the final stages of life, and supporting their families through a terrible time. Again, a huge thank you for supporting my work with DevelopMentalUK – for opening your hearts to mental health, for helping to support it in your communities and for building hope into each day.

Around 5.8 million people in the UK are juggling work and caring. They might be supporting an elderly parent, a partner with a long-term illness, or a child with additional needs. Most of the time, they're doing it quietly, fitting it around their working day without ever being asked how they're really doing. Carers' Week shouldn’t be the only time we take notice, but it’s a useful prompt for workplaces to pause and think about who might be carrying something invisible alongside their job. Mental Health First Aid training helps your team notice when someone might be struggling and gives them the tools and confidence to know what to say. Sometimes, just being seen makes all the difference. If you'd like to know more about bringing MHFA training to your workplace, drop me a message. 💚 #CarersWeek #mentalhealthsupport #MHFA

All skills need a brush up now and then, and mental health first aiding is no different. Every three years, Mental Health First Aiders need to take a refresher course in order to stay up to date – and by doing so they also gain another 3 years of MHFAider® support and benefits! If you’re ready to jump in and refresh your qualification, find available course dates on my website! #MentalHealthFirstAid #RefresherCourse #MentalHealthQualification

It’s not always easy for someone to look you in the eye and tell you what is going on in their mind. As a MHFAider®, sometimes you need to start conversations while they are avoiding your gaze, putting up their guards and keeping themselves safe. Trust that the positive and helpful words you are sharing will still make a difference. By nudging that door open and showing you are there, in their own time they will feel more able to push it wider. This #Pride month, and in the months that follow, notice each other. Ask each other. Support each other. We all belong here.

Movement is one of the simplest and most powerful forms of self-care we have – and incorporating more movement into your day doesn’t have to mean lifting heavy weights or going on long runs. Here are a few easy suggestions from MHFA England: ⏱️ Set hourly reminders to stretch or move – even a quick one-minute stretch or short walk can help reduce stiffness and improve circulation 📞Take moving meetings or move during phone calls – this can boost creativity and engagement. 🍊 Use your lunch break to get outside for fresh air ⌚ Track your activity to stay motivated – using a smartwatch or app can help you stay accountable and motivated to reach daily improvement goals 🧍Stand when possible, if you are able - standing meetings or adjustable desks can help reduce the health risks associated with prolonged sitting What do YOU do to move more in your day? #MoveForMentalHealth #mentalhealthcommunity

The more we talk about mental health together, the more our confidence grows in knowing we can approach people, assess situations and offer support. When you train as a Mental Health First Aider with me, I make sure there is plenty of space for asking questions, discussing nuances and exploring options. When you qualify I want you to feel confident about your next steps and your ability to help others. Explore more and book via the links in my bio! #MHFAider #MHFA #MentalHealthFirstAid

When life is stressful how many of us gain comfort from animals? They’re our unlicensed therapists who don’t charge by the hour and are perfectly happy to sit on your lap while you question your life choices. Animals have a few key advantages over humans: 🐈 They don’t give unsolicited advice 🐎They don’t care about your five-year plan 🐹 They think you’re amazing for doing very basic things (like existing) 🐕 A dog will celebrate you coming home like you’ve just completed an epic quest. A cat will sit on your laptop the exact moment you’re busiest, which is honestly just a reminder to take a break (thanks… I guess?). 🐇They bring you into the present moment. You can’t overthink your entire life when a rabbit is chewing something it absolutely shouldn’t. If you don’t have a pet, you can still get the benefits of animal company by visiting a local animal shelter, visiting a cat café, offering to walk your neighbour’s dog, or simply watching some cute videos online (yup, that still counts as a mood-booster!). Read more about how animals contribute to our mental health here: https://www.developmentaluk.co.uk/why-animals-are-basically-furry-therapists-but-cheaper-and-judgier

If your workplace is only just now waking up to mental health, make a start by booking your team on to one of my Mental Health Awareness courses. This introductory four-hour session raises awareness of mental health so your employees gain: 💚 An understanding of what mental health is and how to challenge stigma 💚 A basic knowledge of some common mental health issues 💚 An introduction to looking after their own mental health and maintaining wellbeing 💚 Confidence to offer support to someone in distress or who may be experiencing a mental health issue Find out more about it and book through my website (linked in bio!) #MentalHealthAwareness #MentalHealthAtWork

Dentists and veterinarians are under far more pressure than you might realise. In the UK, the numbers are pretty eye-opening. Around 61% of dental professionals report high levels of emotional exhaustion, a key sign of burnout. Meanwhile, a UK survey found that 91% of vets say their job negatively affects their mental health. Both jobs have increasing levels of suicide and often staff leave these demanding jobs despite their services being desperately needed. So next time you visit, offer kindness. A smile, a bit of patience, or simply recognising they’re trying to help can make a real difference. Read more about these demanding professions in my blog. #MentalHealthMatters #DentistMentalHealth #VeterinarianMentalHealth

ACTION is this year's Mental Health Awareness Week theme because, while awareness is vital, real change comes when we take action too. 💚 For yourself: This Mental Health Awareness Week, find one thing to boost your mental health. Choose one positive action that works for you. 💚 For someone else The environment we live in impacts our mental health. What can we do to help build mentally healthy communities, workplaces and schools? 💚 For all of us Individual actions matter, but they're only part of the story. We need those in power to take action to ensure good mental health for everyone in the UK. Find out more about MHAW here: @mentalhealthfoundation #MHAW #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek

Do you ever hear older generations saying this: “Kids today are snowflakes.”? It’s a way of saying that children are too sensitive, too easily upset and too unable to cope. It isn’t just inaccurate, it’s deeply undermining - and it ignores the reality of the world they are growing up in. Being more open about emotions doesn’t mean children are less resilient. In fact, it often shows the opposite. Today’s kids are better at naming their feelings, asking for help, and talking about mental health than generations before them. What can sometimes by dismissed by older generations as “snowflakery” is actually emotional literacy. It’s a skill adults have spent decades trying to learn. Read more on my blog (linked in bio).

Do you feel able to talk about death? Have you been able to talk about your grief? If not, you’re not the only one. But it’s only through conversation that we can tackle taboos, be honest about fears and find out what help people need. 💬 “Right now, we don’t have the right language to talk about death. And this means that not everyone gets the support that suits them as they approach the end of life. We want to see a world where people live well until the very end.” – Hospice UK It’s Dying Matters Awareness Week, so if you need an excuse to start a conversation, here it is. Find more information and resources here: @dyingmatters #DyingMatters #GriefSupport #MentalHealthSupport

When the condition of autism arises at work, all too often the focus falls on what autistic people might struggle with, but autism brings distinctive strengths that can be valuable in many areas of life, and particularly in the workplace… Recognising and celebrating positive traits is essential to building inclusive workplaces where everyone can thrive. Swipe the images to see three core strengths autistic people bring to their work – and then shout out the rest in the comments! Read more about autism and how to celebrate neurodiversity in your workplace culture on my blog. #Autism #mentalhealthatwork

Approaching someone about their mental health does not have to be scary – but when we anticipate that storms are brewing, we can lose confidence to try. However, mental health isn’t weather. We can’t wait until it looks a bit easier to navigate… but when we’re worried about saying the wrong thing, we tend to sit back. This is where Mental Health First Aiders come in. Within their role, a Mental Health First Aider can gain confidence and bridge the mental health gap by: 👉 Providing early intervention for individuals experiencing mental ill health 👉 Targeting mental health stigma 👉 Signposting to further support Make a difference in your workplace and train up MHFAs. Find out more about how to train as a MHFAider® on my website. #MHFA #MentalHealthMatters #mentalhealthcourses

Hands up if you’ve ever worried about money 🙋‍♀️ Most of us have felt tense about finances at some point and, for many, money worries are more than occasional stress: they’re a persistent burden affecting wellbeing, relationships and mental health. Money worries often intertwine with emotional wellbeing, making it harder to concentrate, sleep, or feel secure about the future. Have you heard of @moneyandmentalhealth_, the UK charity founded by Martin Lewis? It’s an organisation dedicated to breaking the vicious cycle between financial stress and poor mental health. I’ve been lucky enough to work with a few of their staff, and they’re fabulous - thoughtful, driven and deeply committed to creating a resource people can really turn to. I’ve written more on this topic on my blog, you can find it linked in my bio.

Ready to step into becoming a Mental Health First Aider? Want to train up your team? Every type of workplace needs them, and all it takes is 4 sessions (4 hours each). The qualification lasts for 3 years, just like a physical First Aid certificate. Check my website for the latest course dates available and book your place. I can’t wait to meet you! To find out more about how to become a MHFAider® or to refresh your training visit my website. #MentalHealthFirstAid #MHFA #MentalHealthAtWork

Notice the nuances. Seek them out because, especially online, they can be hard to keep in sight. More than one thing can be true at once. When understanding of tone and nuance is lost, and we don’t take the time to listen to all of the facts and educate ourselves on things we haven’t experienced, empathy gets trampled. People get hurt. Protecting mental health for everyone means talking more, listening with more intent, and recognising that feelings are valid. Recently, Tourette Syndrome has been debated a lot in the news and online in relation to racism, due to the BAFTA incident. Many are feeling hurt from what happened, and there is valid reason for that. It’s a complex conversation and is an example of how important it is to hear each other. If you’d like to read more about Tourette Syndrome, I have a blog about it on my website.

Animals can have a big positive effect on our mental health. Do you have a special pet in your life who brings you comfort? Whether it’s by giving us a responsibility that pushes us to get out of the house when we really don’t want to, such as walking a dog, or by being a companion on the sofa whose mere presence can lower our heartrate through touch and sound, such as a purring cat – our pet friends can make sure we stay feeling connected to a world which may otherwise feel distant. It’s National Pet Day today, so give your furriest loved one a squeeze and show them how much they mean to you! Give them a shout-out in the comments too! 🐾

When the world feels overwhelming 💚 Set boundaries with the news you consume It’s okay to take a break from the news, and doing so can be beneficial. Consider checking the news only a couple of times a day or unfollowing social media accounts that bring you anxiety. 💚 Practise grounding exercises Grounding yourself in the here and now can ease your stress response. Try using a grounding exercise, or going for a walk in nature to help bring you back to the present moment. 💚 Have phone-free times If you often find yourself doomscrolling, having set phone-free times or zones could help break this habit. Try switching your phone to aeroplane mode at certain times of the day or try keeping certain areas as phone-free zones, such as the bedroom or the dining table. 💚 Talk with others Overwhelm lessens when we connect with other people. Spend some quality time with loved ones, family or friends, or talk to a safe person about how you are feeling. 💚 Focus on what you can control and positive actions you can take Small actions still matter. Whether it’s signing a petition, volunteering with a local cause or donating items, taking positive action can help shift feelings out of helplessness and into purposefulness. Read more about overwhelm on my blog - link in bio! #mentalhealthisimportant #mentalhealthawareness #overwhelm

Stress, depression and anxiety caused 22.1 million lost days last year, with nearly 23 days off work on average (according to HSE’s Working days lost in Great Britain). If your workplace isn’t considering mental health, it isn’t considering the human beings who work there. Having team members trained in mental health first aid is a great first step to creating a more supportive, safe and healthy environment. MHFAiders® are given the training and resources to be able to approach colleagues with empathy and information. They can start conversations that may have been going unsaid. It’s Stress Awareness Month, so that’s your sign – if you needed one – to take action. Take a look at my courses and find the best fit for your organisation. #StressAwareness #MentalHealthSupport #MHFA

April’s #selfcaresnacks prompt is to doodle! It doesn’t have to look like anything in particular – just grab a pen and paper and embrace the squiggles! Fill the paper, or even just the edges of a notebook page, with all kinds of random marks. Maybe you’ll go for stars, swirls, heart shapes, squares… or perhaps you’ll branch beyond the abstract, into simple butterflies or trees or cupcakes. The point is, is doesn’t matter WHAT you draw – it’s the process of doing it that’ll calm your mind and help you reset. Let me know what ended up on your page today!

Feeling seen, for who we are, is important. It helps us to feel connected and valued. For some, this feeling comes easily, perhaps because they have never had to question where they fit. For others, it’s not so simple to feel accepted. People don’t always know how to empathise with things outside of their immediate experience. But empathy isn’t about knowing everything – it’s about having the openness to listen and the willingness to try to understand. Transgender people are disproportionately affected by mental health difficulties, navigating factors such as discrimination, familial rejection, societal inequality and dysphoria. These factors exist because we humans just aren’t talking enough or being kind enough. What are you doing to make your workplace more supportive and inclusive for your trans employees? #TDOV #TransDayOfVisibility

As a practitioner who can work online I am keeping my footprint as minimal as possible, but I also plant a tree for each person who signs up to my courses. It not only helps our planet, but it also symbolises the positive growth we all make when we take care of ourselves and others. Let’s keep growing together 💚

I honestly love being a Mental Health First Aid Instructor, so hearing feedback like this brings me the biggest of smiles! "Really great group of people to share my Monday morning with, Julia was fantastic and really insightful. Thank you so much for this course, I feel it is so important to have a better understanding of mental health."

Do you feel this way? That your manager has a bigger impact on your mental health than most others in your life? If so, you’re in a majority. We all spend so much time at work, it makes sense that the people we interact there with the most will feed into our mental health. However, fewer than 29% of organisations provide mental health training. That doesn’t make much sense, does it? Managers especially hold a key to creating better working environments – but only when they are given the tools and the training to recognise signs, and the confidence to have open conversations. You can read more about this topic on my blog - link in bio! If you’re not sure how mental health training can fit into your organisation, come have a chat with me. It’s easier than you think and more beneficial than you can imagine. #MentalHealthAtWork #CompanyCulture #EmployeeSupport

Neurodivergence refers to natural differences in how people’s brains work. This includes autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia and Tourette syndrome. Neurodivergent people don’t need to be “fixed”, they simply experience and interact with the world differently. And those differences? They can be incredible strengths. Neurodivergent employees often excel at things like creative problem-solving, pattern recognition, attention to detail, and innovative thinking. They may see solutions others miss or question assumptions that have gone unchallenged for years. When workplaces support neurodivergence, they unlock a wider range of ideas and approaches. That diversity of thought leads to better decision-making, more innovation, and stronger teams overall. It’s Neurodiversity Celebration Week which aims to transform how neurodivergent individuals are perceived and supported. As a neurodiversity trained instructor, I’m working on my own contribution, as I’ll be offering training courses very soon. I’m excited to share them with you – watch this space! Read more about neurodiversity and mental health on my blog (link in bio).

What does it mean to feel psychologically safe at work? 👉 Colleagues listen without judgement 👉 Leaders model openness and vulnerability 👉 People feel safe to admit mistakes, ask questions, and challenge ideas 👉 All voices are encouraged to contribute Psychological safety has been shown to strengthen productivity, performance, engagement, and retention. When people don’t have to hide parts of who they are, stress is reduced and teams are able to focus on doing great work. Today is My Whole Self Day, run by MHFA England, and they have an updated Toolkit you can use in your workplace to embed long-term culture change. Find more info here: @mhfaengland #MyWholeSelfDay #MHFA #MentalHealthFirstAid

A mindset of generosity and collaboration. Do you have one? International Women’s Day’s 2026 campaign is called Give To Gain and it emphasises the power of reciprocity and support. When people, organisations, and communities give generously, opportunities and support for women increase. Giving is not a subtraction, it's intentional multiplication. When women thrive, we all rise. What can you give? You might offer help through donations, knowledge, resources, infrastructure, visibility, advocacy, education, training, mentoring, or time. Whatever you do, you’ll be contributing to women's advancement and creating a more supportive and interconnected world. Find out more about #IWD here: @internationalwomensday_global #GiveToGain

You know, not every minute needs to be filled. You can let some of them loose and allow them to be little bubbles of nothingness. Boredom is actually a helpful tool, which allows the mind to settle, rest, wander and seek out new inspirations. So, todays #selfcaresnack is to have 5 minutes of doing absolutely nothing! Go on, try it! Let me know how you get on…is it harder or easier than you imagine?

Self harm can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender or background. So, why aren’t we talking about it more? Today is Self Harm Awareness Day (SHAD) which aims to raise awareness, reduce stigma and promote help-seeking around self harm. The 2026 theme is Connection Is Coping: Finding Support Together, and highlights how reaching out is a powerful step toward healing. When we feel overwhelmed, connection – not isolation – is key to managing distress. Finding support together can offer a powerful message of hope. Find more information on my blog (link in bio). #SHAD2026 #ConnectionIsCoping

You don’t have to have all the answers – Mental Health First Aid® training is about giving you a framework to approach and assist within. You can go into a conversation with another person knowing that you’re both going to be ok. I’m a MHFA England Instructor, and my training is rooted in safety, kindness and joy. Come talk to me about training your team in Mental Health First Aid and allow your workplace to become a welcoming, supportive environment for everyone. #mentalhealthfirstaid #mentalhealthtraining #mentalhealthcourses

Today begins Eating Disorders Awareness Week – do you feel like you know how to support someone with an eating disorder? For someone with an eating disorder, feelings of isolation are common – and this also applies to those who are supporting someone else through one. Community has power. Family, friends and other support networks play a vital role in helping someone to feel supported, understood, and never alone on their journey from seeking help, undergoing treatment and beyond. I talk more about the massive role community and connection plays in mental health in my blog – have a read via the link in my bio.

Connecting and empowering Mental Health First Aiders® - that’s what the Association of Mental Health First Aiders is doing! 🙌 There are hundreds of thousands of members at its heart – all dedicated to helping workplaces and communities become more mentally healthy and productive every day. If you’ve trained in Mental Health First Aid with me you can become a member of the Association, with access to exclusive resources and benefits. It’s a way to connect with your fellow MHFAiders, continue your learning and find support whenever you need it. Have questions? Ask me! Find out more here: @mhfaengland #MentalHealthFirstAid #MHFAider

It’s RAK Week (Random Acts of Kindness Week) which means the focus is on all the little ways we can expand our inner worlds and support each other better. What could you do today to reach out with kindness? Luckily, if you’re feeling stuck, you don’t have to come up with ideas – there’s a ready-made calendar of inspo free to download on the RAK website. Why not try the prompt for today – ask someone “What’s something good in your world today?” and then simply listen to the answer 💚 Take kindness with you through all of 2026 – explore the RAK Calendar here: @rakfoundation #RandomActsOfKindnessWeek #MakeKindnessTheNorm #RAKtivist

Suicide touches almost every workplace, yet many organisations still feel ill-equipped to talk about it openly or respond safely. Have you heard of “BS 30480: Suicide and the workplace – Intervention, prevention and support for people affected by suicide”? It’s a benchmark published by the British Standards Institution (BSI) as the first British Standard to address suicide risk and its impact in the workplace, and the world’s first to focus explicitly on suicide awareness. The standard provides practical, evidence-based recommendations to help organisations plan for, respond to, and support people affected by suicide or experiencing suicidal thoughts. It covers policy, culture, communication, training and postvention, and includes toolkits for HR and line managers to ensure a consistent organisational response. Suicide prevention is everyone’s business and talking about it is how we learn, connect and raise awareness. You don’t need to be a mental health expert. You just need to be ready to ask, listen, respond with care, and signpost to support. Read more about suicide prevention on my blog - link in bio.

Businesses who truly value their employees will want to understand, embrace, and support neurodiversity. That’s why I have qualified to guide you through Neurodiversity In The Workplace training. You’re probably working for, or with, someone who is neurodivergent, but you may not know it. Neurodivergent people and their needs are often ignored at work, or their behaviours are misunderstood. I want to help you build an inclusive workplace culture that improves the wellbeing of your neurodiverse staff and enriches your entire organisation. Embrace the varied perspectives and skills that exist in your company, because if you don’t, you’re missing out! Find out more about neurodiversity and Mental Health First Aid® training on my blog (link in bio). #NeurodiversityAtWork #Neurodiverse

Talking openly and honestly can be the first step towards better mental health for everyone. It can reduce stigma and help people feel comfortable enough to seek help when they need it. Time to Talk Day is the nation’s biggest mental health conversation. It’s a day for friends, families, communities and workplaces to come together to talk, listen and change lives. Read more on my blog(link in bio) 💚 #TimeToTalkDay #mentalhealthfirstaid #mentalhealthcommunity

I am super excited to share I have qualified as a Neurodiversity Instructor with @itstime2_thrive — a journey that has me bouncing with purpose, pride, and a deep sense of impact. Anyone who is Neurodivergent has so many strengths to offer but often these are missed, and it's been great to team up with Thrive who are intent on bringing this knowledge to all organisations worldwide. Thrive is on a mission to change the way workplaces think about neurodiversity and mental health — moving away from outdated stigma toward genuine understanding and inclusion. Their vision? Helping one person at a time to not just survive, but thrive. Having completed their training - a programme built on lived experiences, real-world insights, and practical tools - I am excited to be able to share all their training with you. Watch out for new training opportunities coming in this spring.

Start this new month by noticing your body more – it can hold onto more tension than you might think. Take a moment to sit quietly. Breathe in, breathe out. You might think overall that you are relaxed – and if you are, great! – but sometimes we overlook tiny tensions. Maybe consider: 🤔Are my toes clenched? 🤔Is my jaw feeling tight, or my teeth clamped together? 🤔Is my forehead scrunching? These might be tensions which seem slight, but if you identify their presence, you can breathe them away. It’s amazing how much of a big difference letting go of a tiny tension can make! #selfcaresnacks #selfcareideas #selfcarematters

You never switch off from being a parent – when you go into work, you don’t forget worries or issues you might be navigating at home. When there’s a lot going on, it can be hard to focus. Parent Mental Health Day (PMHD is held each year on 30th January, to raise awareness of the vital link between parents’ and carers’ mental health and the wellbeing of the whole family. It also reminds workplaces, friends, and communities that supporting parents doesn’t always require grand gestures. Sometimes it’s offering flexibility, checking in, or simply understanding that someone may not be at their sharpest when things are difficult at home. Find out more about PMHD @stem4org or check out my blog (link in bio).

There is always hope for recovery and it’s so important to remember that every recovery is unique. Each person’s journey will take a different amount of time to progress through, and the route won’t look the same as anyone else’s. Offering understanding to each other while we are travelling is a kindness everyone can give. We can get better at understanding, and listening, when we learn more about mental health. Come join me on a Mental Health First Aid® course to explore all the emotions, questions and issues – we’re in this together. #mentalhealthfirstaid #mentalhealthatwork #mentalhealthcourses #HopeForRecovery

It doesn’t take much to uplift someone else’s day. Whether you’re saying thank you to the person delivering your post, or giving someone a smile on the bus, little moments of interaction and positivity can make us all feel more connected and valued. How often do you tell people in your workplace that they are doing well, or that you value them? If you’ve not done so for a while, do it today! Read more on my blog (link in bio) 💚

It’s more important than ever to take the time to check in with the people we care about. That’s why I’m giving a shoutout for #BrewMonday today, which raises vital funds and awareness for @Samaritans💚 There’s always time for a cuppa and a catch-up. It doesn’t matter if it’s a Monday morning or Saturday night, or if you’re drinking green tea, black coffee or orange juice. If you’re sharing a cuppa and listening, you’re doing it right!

Have you heard of Mental Health First Aid? It’s like physical first aid but it focusses on these core aims: - To preserve life where a person may be at risk of harm to themselves or others - To provide help to prevent the mental health issue from becoming more serious - To promote recovery of good mental health - To provide comfort to a person with a mental health issue To find out more and to become a Mental Health First Aider® visit my website 💚

Do you have questions about Mental Health? My training sessions are safe spaces where we can ask ALL the questions – no matter how awkward! 🔵 Do you wonder what you can and can’t say when talking about mental health? 🔵 Do you want to understand the WHYs behind words and phrases you should and shouldn’t use? We are often told that we should do one thing rather than another, but if we aren’t given good reasons as to why we are doing it, we often don’t prioritise it. For example, you perhaps know that using “crazy” as a term is problematic – but do you know WHY? Have you thought about the effects the use of that word has on others? If you have a question, don’t feel ashamed of it. Come to training and ask it, and we’ll answer it with no judgement 💚 Find out more about Mental Health First Aid® training on my website - or reach out for a chat.

It’s a New Year so let me reintroduce myself - Hi👋 I’m Julia, and I am a Mental Health First Aid Instructor, supported by MHFA England. I run DevelopMental UK, where I train people to feel more confident in talking about mental health – both at their work and in their personal lives. 👉 I am passionate about helping you to make your workplace a more supportive place to be. If you’d like to chat about how to bring MHFA into your workplace, responsibly and effectively, drop me a message/email and let’s book you and your team in!

Ready to become a Mental Health First Aider? Make 2026 the year you jump in, and train up your team too, to create a more supportive workplace for everyone… Check my website for the latest course dates available – and if you can’t find one that fits, reach out to me. I can’t wait to meet you! To find out more about becoming a MHFAider® or to refresh your training visit my website! #MHFA #MentalHealthFirstAid #MentalHealthTraining #mentalhealthatwork

Let’s start the New Year with a #selfcaresnack that looks towards the future. Let’s make a plan to do something we enjoy. Now, this plan doesn’t have to be all big and sprawling. Plans can be tiny – and no less enjoyable for it! Take 5 minutes and have a think. Here are a couple of ideas to consider: 😋 Plan what you’ll have, or do, for an upcoming meal. Maybe you can plan to pick up your favourite fruit, to have for breakfast soon. Or perhaps you’ll plan to eat lunch on Saturday, on the floor, picnic style, sitting on a blanket and watching TV. 🚶‍➡️Plan a mini-adventure for your day off. Is there a place in your town that you have never visited, despite being so close by – perhaps you could check it out! Let me know what you’re planning and share ideas in the comments 💬

Does your workplace feel like a community? A supportive workplace community enhances job satisfaction and can be a protective factor for mental health. 👥Strong connections between teams help people and workplaces to thrive – and managers play a vital role in making this happen. These tips help managers build workplace communities where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued.

Christmas can feel challenging when we are feeling sad or anxious – but it’s ok to feel that way. You don’t have to force feeling happy, just because it’s a festive day. Today can be whatever you need it to be. Traditions can be changed, plans can be remade. If you need to hide in a cosy nook or sleep the day away, let yourself rest. If you want to surround yourself with people and keep busy, let the bustle wash over you. Find your way through it – your way doesn’t need to look like anyone else’s way. From my heart to yours, Merry Christmas🎄

Dreading the constant “ping!” on your phone or computer? Being connected to the big wide world all the time is tiring AND it impacts our mental health. Here’s what continuous connectivity can lead to: 🔔Stress and anxiety from the expectation to always be available 🔔Mental fatigue caused by constant multitasking and reactive working 🔔Reduced productivity and growing frustration from lack of focus 🔔Burnout from the sense that work never really ends Digital wellbeing in the workplace matters. Read more about how you can improve yours on my blog (link in bio).

If you are rolling out mental health skills training, trainee surveys will provide you with valuable data. Plan to check in with your team: 👉Before training 👉Directly after training 👉At a six month follow up This can help you to: 👍Gauge whether they found the training worthwhile 👍Evaluate improvements in attitudes and awareness around mental health 👍Track whether they are applying their MHFA skills to support colleagues, identify patterns in circumstances, and evaluate the effectiveness of the outcomes If you have questions about training your team in mental health first aid, reach out to me for a chat. No questions are off limits and I’d love to help you make your workplace more supportive for the New Year and beyond! #MentalHealthFirstAiders #MHFA #mentalhealthforall

A quick gratitude habit you can try 👇 Tonight, before bed: write down three things you’re grateful for today, no matter how small they might seem (e.g., “a warm cup of tea”, “a smile from a colleague”, “a moment outside”). Do this for one week and notice what changes in how you feel. Read more about how gratitude boosts mental health in my blog (link in bio). #practisinggratitude #mentalhealthfirstaid #gratitudematters

The earlier you can spot and approach a mental health issue, the more likely you are to stop it from escalating. Recovery and hope thrive when we start talking more. Get your Mental Health First Aiders® set up in your workplace now, rather than later. To find out more about how to become a MHFAider® or to refresh your training visit: https://www.developmentaluk.co.uk/

Six ways to reduce presenteeism at work 👇 1️⃣Promote a psychologically safe work culture 2️⃣Simplify workloads and clarify expectations 3️⃣Offer flexible working where possible 4️⃣Outline what support is available to employees 5️⃣Recognise and reward results 6️⃣Train managers to recognise and respond to presenteeism Read more on the MHFA England blog.

We’re currently in National Grief Awareness Week and the theme this year is ‘Growing with Grief’. Grief is a topic so many find hard to talk about, but this theme highlights how much hope has a place in it. “Losing a loved one feels like an ending in so many ways, but in time, it can also become the ground from which something new begins. The campaign acknowledges that, after a loss, we can't go back to the person we once were, but can instead grow into someone new, shaped by love, memories and resilience. This growth doesn’t erase the pain, but it does allow HOPE to return.” – The Good Grief Trust Find out more about NGAW and explore their resources here: @thegoodgrieftrust #NGAW #NationalGriefAwarenessWeek

It’s amazing how physical clutter can bolster our mental clutter! Do you ever find yourself procrastinating on a task because in the back of your mind you are thinking about the STUFF that is accumulating in front of you? So, think of it this way - Decluttering your desktop can be an act of self-care. It’s a moment when you can let go of all the other to-dos, and let your hands do something practical as your mind drifts a bit. When the decks are clear, hopefully you’ll find your mind feels a bit more settled and ready to focus. #selfcaresnacks #selfcareideas

Harmful language is still being used in relation to suicides. Have you heard, or even used, some of these? 👇 🟢 “Committed suicide” Suicide was a crime in the UK until 1961, which is where the language ‘committed suicide’ comes from. The word ‘commit’ can also be viewed in relation to committing a sin. It’s outdated, no longer relevant and can contribute to further pain experienced by those bereaved by suicide. 🟢 “Successful/completed suicide” and “Unsuccessful/failed attempt” No death should be seen as a success and no attempt should ever be regarded as the person having failed. 🟢 “Selfish” or “an easy way out” It is often the case that the person felt people would be better off without them, and at that time suicide felt like the only way out of the pain they were in. This perspective is not about a lack of care for others, but about unbearable distress and a belief, however misplaced, that ending their life was a way to protect those they loved. 👉Hannah Buckland (MHFA England Instructor Member) explains more in an MHFA England blog – please go read for more insights.

Why do I teach Mental Health First Aid? Because I LOVE it! And I love seeing people relax when they realise that by knowing a few simple techniques they can feel confident to approach situations and offer support. Please don’t be scared of training in Mental Health First Aid – I’m with you all the way and we’ll have fun as we go! #MentalHealthFirstAid #MentalHealthCourses #MentalHealthAtWork #WorkplaceWellbeing

Who are the men in your life? Brothers, Fathers, Sons, Friends? How often do you let them know how much they mean to you, or how they positively impact your day-to-day? If it’s not often, today’s a day to change that! Today is International Men’s Day celebrating the positive value men bring to the world, their families and communities. Let’s highlight positive role models and raise awareness of men’s well-being. The theme for 2025 is “Celebrating Men and Boys” – so go celebrate the men you know 🎉 Read more on my blog (link in bio!) #InternationalMensDay #MensMentalHealth

What do you do for YOURSELF? When it comes to doing things for ourselves, to give ourselves a rest or a refresh, it’s so common for us to think “oh I’ll do that later”, or “That’s not important right now”. But let me tell you – It IS so important right now! Putting yourself on the bottom of the priority list is unfair – both on yourself AND on the people around you. Remember, you can show up better for others when you allow yourself the rest you need. You’ll feel stronger for it. Whether it’s going for a walk, watching a movie, cuddling a pet or singing a song in the shower, there are so many little things which can remind us of who we are and why that’s good. Comment below with something you like to do, that restores your soul in some way (and share the selfcare ideas!)...

Today is the first MHFAider Day in England, a national celebration of the incredible impact of Mental Health First Aiders! Every time I finish training with a group of wonderful humans, I know I’m sending them into their workplaces feeling more empowered to make a change. Kindness and empathy are within all of us – and every MHFAider® uses theirs to make a difference in their communities, supported by learning and resources. This day celebrates them, because they absolutely deserve it! #MHFAiderDay #AOMHFA #MentalHealthFirstAid #MentalHealthMatters #MyMHFAiderStory #WorkplaceWellbeing @mhfaengland

This is what I look at every morning – a short note that was given to me - and every morning it buoys me up! I wanted to share it as little things like this can have huge impacts on our mental health – as reminders of the special people in our lives, of possibility, of hope, of turning up for others, a clip to fight off the moments of doubt. Do you have something similar that cheers you each day?

Inside your work team are Mental Health First Aiders, just waiting to emerge. Now is the time to let them... Why train up your team in mental health first aid? Because by doing so you’ll be helping to: - Reduce absenteeism - Reduce presenteeism - Build team cohesiveness - Increase productivity - Increase retention - Increase loyalty - Improve moral - Increase discussion and problem solving - Increase commitment and trust - Fulfil your moral obligation Sounds good, doesn’t it? Explore more on my website.

As we move into a new month, let’s also move in ways that bring us joy. This #selfcaresnack is a reminder that movement in your body is an act of self-care, even if it’s just a simple stretch. What kind of movement lifts your mood? Is it a dance-burst to a favourite song? Or maybe a walk to your local green space? Whatever kind of movement suits your body, take a moment to indulge in it!

Halloween can be a joyful holiday for some, but for others it can bring worry. As darkness falls tomorrow, keep kindness at the centre of your spooky-celebrations. 🎃 If you are trick-or-treating, only approach houses who have clearly decorated for the occasion. 👻 In picking your costume, ditch stigmatising themes. Never use mental illness as a costume theme, such as "psycho" or "insane asylum inmate." These perpetuate harmful stereotypes and trivialise serious health conditions. 🦇 If you are creating a display outside your house, lower the volume on spooky sound effects. Sudden, loud noises or jump scares can cause panic, anxiety, and distress for many people, including those with PTSD or sensory processing sensitivities. There are so many ways of having a fun and exciting night, whilst still respecting those around us. Don’t be a beastie, be a Halloween bestie!

“Many farmers say they feel a sense of stigma and embarrassment when it comes to sharing mental health problems… I’ve heard farmers say they're more comfortable talking about their problems with their vet than with a GP, the perception being that health professionals don't understand the unique circumstances and needs the farming community has.” – Steve Phillip Awareness of issues is the first step towards change, and in a recent blog for MHFA England Steve Phillip (a suicide prevention advocate and founder of The Jordan Legacy) laid out the mental health barriers facing farmers. Read more from Steve about how we can better support farmers’ mental health here: https://mhfaengland.org/mhfa-centre/blog/encouraging-conversations-about-mental-health-and-suicide-in-farming-communities/

Why would you choose me to be your Mental Health First Aid trainer? Because I lead you into the adventure with kindness, and keep you company the whole way through. Everyone has different experiences they bring along with them, and I make sure to be sensitive to triggers as we approach topics which may be challenging. You’re safe with me – we’re in it together.

Is your workplace understanding of Menopause? If not, this Saturday (18th Oct) is World Menopause Day, so it’s a good excuse to start the conversation. The theme for World Menopause Day 2025 is Lifestyle Medicine. Anything which affects our bodies also impacts our mental health. Talking about our physical symptoms can help us to feel more supported and less alone. Menopause symptoms often go un-talked about, because they are still not widely understood – and that can lead to feelings of isolation at work.

Business Birthday Alert! 🎂🎈🎉 DevelopMental UK is 6 years old today – can you believe it?! The time has been wonderfully spent meeting so many inspiring people and getting to do a job I’m passionate about. To everyone who has trained with me, rooted for me and cheered for the cause of Mental Health Awareness – Thank You! My job is made marvellous by the humans who open their hearts and minds to thinking fresh and moving forwards with hope – and I know there are so many more out there who I am destined to meet very soon.