What does mental health mean to Team HC? Below we discuss being mindful, staying present, what burnout looks like and some of the ways we incorporate care for our wellbeing – including our mental health, into our daily lives.
Sue – How our “energy” shows up at work really matters. Not the bouncing-off-the-walls kind, but the calm, open, positive, can-do attitude that keeps us moving forward. The flip side often looks like burnout – running on empty, feeling negative, or doubting ourselves. Be mindful if you are feeling this way and focus on taking good care of yourself: set boundaries, take real breaks and as we do at Team HC, look to your team for back up when things feel overwhelming.
Kendi – I never turn out the light at the end of the day without reading a chapter or two of whatever book I have on the go. It means I have a guaranteed moment of time just for myself, built into my everyday routine, and it is also a good transition from the bustle of the day to settling in for sleep. I find small routines like this really support good mental health by giving me time for a mental breather and it’s also automatic – no decision to be made.
Alex – I’m a big yapper. Sometimes I find a simple phone call with my friends, family really or someone on the team really helps ground me clear my mind on what I might be stressing or worrying about. Also, playing soccer 1–2 times a week keeps me feeling balanced and energised, with the bonus of catching up with friends on the field!
Shereen – For me, looking after my mental health starts with being present and grounded. It’s so easy to get caught up in our own heads, but recognising how you’re feeling and finding a way to ground yourself can make all the difference. Walking is my favourite tool for this, and I have two types of walks. Sometimes I take a “thinking” walk, where I let my mind wander and process everything. Other times, I’ll switch off completely with an audiobook and lose myself into another world as I pound the pavement. It really depends on what I need, and walking always helps me feel balanced and centred.
Karen – It is now accepted that mental health affects overall wellbeing, including physical health – they go hand-in-hand and you cannot operate well if either is ignored. Everyone deals with varying degrees of mental health ups and downs. My best tips are to be present for loved ones when they need help and look after yourself when you know you need it. Breathwork and getting outdoors, lapping up the natural environment and sunlight – be it in the bush, the beach or a local park is the best way to give yourself a hit of positive energy!