Well Being
Anxiety can manifest in many ways and affect people differently depending on their experiences and circumstances. If you or someone you know is experiencing anxiety or another mental health related condition, know that you are not alone. It’s okay to reach out for help, whether that means talking to a friend or family member, seeking professional support, or accessing resources through Astor Bannerman.
How Astor Bannerman Can Support Us
As Mark mentioned in the recent Company Update, two of our colleagues, Helen Laird and Will Sweny are now qualified as Mental Health First Aiders, and they can offer support to anyone who is experiencing mental ill health or distress. This support can vary from having a confidential, non-judgmental conversation, through to guiding people towards the right professional support.
Other things we can do at work when we are dealing with stress and anxiety
💬 Talk out the stress with a trusted colleague (or line manager if comfortable doing so).
🚶🏾♀️Step away from our desks. (Even for 5 minutes!) A short walk or a few minutes getting a drink can help.
🌲 Spend time in nature. It is proven to reduce stress and blood pressure. Take advantage of the new picnic tables next to the river as a good place for lunch or a 5-minute break.
💪🏽 Practice deep breathing or progressive tensing and relaxing (when you tense a muscle a group of muscles for 15-30 seconds then relax). This helps distract the mind and can be relaxing.
🧹Tidy our desks (It gives a nice feeling of achievement and takes us away from our screens)
📝Make a to-do list and prioritise tasks. Focus on one thing at a time.
🐳As basic as it sounds, drink water. Have a pint glass of water to hand and drink away!
We can also do our part as colleagues and friends by reaching out when we think someone might be struggling.
Who to Contact
Our Mental Health First Aiders Will Sweny and Helen Laird are on-hand if anyone would like to talk.
The links below detail contact information for external organisations who might also be able to help: