May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and as part of an ongoing commitment to promoting open conversations around mental health, the Electrical Industries Charity (EIC) has teamed up with guest speaker Julian Raithby to deliver a wellbeing talk focused on mental health awareness.
Julian is the founder of Mental Health and Me 999, delivering powerful and honest mental health talks based on real lived experience.
During the session, Julian will share his personal journey from crisis to recovery, exploring topics including anxiety, panic attacks, depression, and suicidal thoughts in an open and judgement-free environment. The talk aims to challenge stigma and help others feel less alone in their mental health journey.
Add the Mental Health Awareness Wellbeing talk to your calendar here
Or if you missed it, you can watch the talk on the EIC’s YouTube channel
Mental Health in the Workplace: Why it Matters
On average, people spend a third of their waking hours at work. A toxic environment can lead to mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, and burnout. In contrast, a supportive workplace boosts productivity, creativity, and retention.
The WHO estimates that depression and anxiety cost the global economy over $1 trillion annually in lost productivity. Prioritising mental health is not only ethical but also beneficial for business.
What Employers Can Do
Promote open Conversations:
· Normalise talking about mental health without fear or judgement
· Encourage managers to check in regularly and empathetically
Offer Mental Health Resources:
· Provide access to Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs), counselling, or mental health apps.
· Share information through newsletters, posters, or intranet
Train Managers:
· Equip managers with mental health literacy to regognise signs of distress
· Create clear procedures for referring employees to professional help
Foster Work-Life Balance:
· Encourage employees to use annual leave
· Avoid promoting a 24/7 availability culture
Create a Supportive Environment:
· Recognise achievements and contributions
· Addresstoxic behaviours and discrimination
· Offer flexible work arrangements where possible
What Employees Can Do
· Set Boundaries: Separate work from personal time
· Take Regular Breaks: Recharge and avoid burnout
· Seek Support: Reach out to HR, managers, or a mental health professional when needed
· Practice Self-Care: Exercise, sleep, mindfulness, or hobbies
The Electrical Industries Charity offers counselling services to anyone in the electrical or energy industry who is experiencing mental health challenges. If you need support, please get in touch with the EIC Welfare Team on 0800 652 1618.
For general enquiries, please contact the fundraising team directly.
The Fundraising Team
020 3696 1710
