First aid for the soul: How companies promote mental health

First aid for the soul: How companies promote mental health

Mental health in the workplace is increasingly recognized as an important factor in well-being and productivity. At the Hannover Veterinary University Foundation (TiHo), a group of employees is committed to providing support in crisis situations with their “First Aid for Mental Health” offering. This initiative was created to address the challenges that can cause stress and personal crises.

Today, up to 30% of people in psychological distress are unwilling to seek help. This is an alarming sign as individual conversations have been proven to reduce the risk of suicide. The employees at TiHo have therefore trained to offer an open ear in acute emergencies and to provide support on the way to further help. However, they are not therapists, but rather act as the first point of contact

The importance of psychological first aid

Psychological first aid helps those affected get back to everyday life and offers a safe atmosphere in which their reality is acknowledged. In addition, it creates structure and conveys information that is essential for stabilization. The support refers not only to acute but also to preventive measures that can prevent traumatic disorders after serious events.

According to a report by the WHO At least 15% of working-age adults are affected by a mental illness. These illnesses can significantly impair professional participation, which can place strain on both the personal and organizational environment. WHO emphasizes the need for organizational measures and training to promote mental health in the workplace.

Role of the social environment

A crucial aspect in crisis management is the social environment. Helping people from the social context should be included in the support. It is important that those affected are not left alone and that they have access to professional help. In this way, a trusting atmosphere can be created that contributes to stabilization.

In addition, it is essential that employers recognize the psychological stress in the workplace and take appropriate measures. Mindfulness and self-protection are also important for helpers so that they do not become overwhelmed. Presence and simple gestures, such as holding hands, can have immense meaning for those affected and offer them security and compassion.

Training and support

Training to become a psychosocial helper is open, but there is no uniform regulation for emergency care professionals. Nevertheless, the concept of Mental Health First Aid (MHFA), for example, was developed in Australia and has now spread to over 24 countries. In Germany, over 29,000 MHFA first aiders are already training, thereby contributing to a better understanding of mental health.

In summary, it is extremely important to take your own mental health and that of your employees seriously. The TiHo initiative and similar programs are an important part of the path to a healthier working environment. Companies are increasingly recognizing the relevance of psychological support and are creating offers that strengthen self-healing powers and promote the working atmosphere tiho-hannover.de and notfallrucksack.info point out.