Stress Management | Mental Health First Aid Training Courses

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This Remembrance Day Veterans Are Being Encouraged To Get Support For Their Mental Health

12th November 2023

by Mike Lawrence Anxiety Confidence Corporate Wellness Programme Mental Health At Work mental health at work Sheffield Mental Health First Aid Training MHFA Stress Management stress management Sheffield Suicide wellbeing in the workplace Sheffield workplace mental health Sheffield workplace wellbeing Sheffield

Addressing the Invisible Wounds of Combat through Innovative Approaches

The mental health crisis among veterans, particularly those who have experienced combat, is a growing concern that demands urgent attention. A staggering report from a recent JAMA Neurology study reveals a more than 10-fold increase in suicide rates among U.S. veterans from 2006 to 2020, underscoring the inadequacy of current treatment strategies.

In the U.K., the situation is similarly alarming. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) remains a prevalent issue among veterans. Statistics show a significant number of these brave individuals have PTSD, a condition often exacerbated by their experiences in combat. The National Health Service (NHS) strives to provide support, yet the complexity of mental health challenges in veterans calls for a multi-faceted approach.

As someone who has worked closely with veterans, I’ve seen firsthand the profound impact of combat on mental health. Some challenges they face are the memories of lost comrades, the strain on personal and professional relationships, and the struggle to reintegrate into civilian life. My approach involves talking therapies, which have proven beneficial in managing these difficult memories and experiences. These therapies are not just about coping with past traumas; they’re about rebuilding a life with new strategies for wellbeing.

The Benefits of Self-Care in Veteran Mental Health:

Meditation: Enhances resilience by developing the ability to cope with stress and recover from adversity. Regular meditation practice leads to mental flexibility and a healthier stress response.
Gratitude Exercises: Strengthens relationships by fostering a positive outlook that enhances empathy and deepens connections with others.
Counselling or Talking Therapies: Improves self-esteem by providing safe spaces for self-exploration, leading to greater self-awareness and confidence.
Talking to Friends and Family: Boosts physical health by providing emotional support and reducing feelings of isolation, which can positively impact physical wellbeing.
Mindfulness: Mindfulness practices help in managing symptoms of anxiety and depression, contributing to overall emotional wellbeing and mental health stability.

Self-care strategies like meditation, mindfulness, and expressing gratitude daily have shown remarkable results.

They are encouraging veterans to maintain open communication with trusted friends and family members, which further aids in their mental health journey. The Armed Forces Covenant in the U.K. reinforces this need, ensuring that the armed forces community receives the same standard of healthcare as any other citizen. Information leaflets published by the MOD offer guidance on how veterans can access these services.

The Mental Health Foundation highlights that depression, anxiety, and alcohol problems are common among personnel and veterans, in addition to PTSD. Recent studies, such as those conducted by the King’s Centre for Military Health Research (KCMHR), suggest an increasing trend in help-seeking behaviour, especially among women.

Innovative perspectives like the brain energy theory of mental illness provide new hope. This theory offers a different understanding of mental health issues, potentially leading to more effective treatments.

Our collective responsibility is to ensure our veterans receive the care and support they deserve. We can significantly improve our veterans’ mental health and wellbeing by integrating traditional medical approaches with holistic self-care practices and new scientific insights.

Contact Information for Support:

NHS Mental Health Services: NHS Website
Armed Forces Covenant Support: Armed Forces Covenant
Mental Health Foundation: Mental Health Foundation

Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Let’s work together to support our veterans in their journey towards healing and resilience.

World Mental Health Day More Than Just a Day on the Calendar

8th October 2023

by Mike Lawrence Health and Wellbeing mental health at work Sheffield Stress Stress Management workplace mental health Sheffield workplace wellbeing Sheffield

World Mental Health Day is upon us again, dedicated to raising awareness of mental health’s challenges, triumphs, and nuances. Countless articles, social media posts, and campaigns each year champion the cause. But as we mark another year and another World Mental Health Day, one can’t help but wonder:

Are we genuinely paying attention?

Back in May, the UK observed Mental Health Awareness Week. Yet, does having two significant days in a year translate to twice the impact? Or are these awareness days just a ceremonial nod to an issue that demands sustained attention and action?

Delivering mental health first aid courses both online and in person, I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative power of education and awareness. Signposting individuals to professional help or teaching them to initiate conversations about mental health can make a difference. However, the reality is a mixed bag. While there are organisations genuinely committed to the cause, many others seem content with mere lip service.

From my experience, organisations that actively pursue mental health initiatives often have champions within their ranks — individuals with lived experiences or a personal connection to the cause. Yet, the overarching narrative I frequently encounter is familiar: “We don’t have the budget” or “We don’t have the time.” It’s disheartening to see such a crucial issue brushed aside.

Our government, too, sends mixed signals. While there’s been a notable increase in the suicide prevention fund — a move that promises to provide vital support to thousands in need — there’s a troubling inertia elsewhere. The First-Aid (Mental Health) Bill’s stalling is a glaring example. Scheduled for its next stage on 24th November 2023, it’s now uncertain when, or even if, it will be taken up. What message does this convey about the government’s commitment to mental health?

Awareness days, while crucial, cannot be the total of our efforts. They should be launchpads for year-round initiatives, policy changes, and sustained conversations. Otherwise, we risk them becoming echo chambers where only the already converted listen.

Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training is more than just another course – it’s an urgent call to action for everyone, from business leaders to grassroots community members. Imagine if, in every room you entered, there was at least one individual equipped with the knowledge and skills to support a person undergoing a mental health crisis. The ripple effect of such preparedness would be monumental.

When you undertake MHFA training, you’re not just learning – you’re committing to being that beacon of support in someone’s moment of need. This is our collective responsibility. For organisations, embedding MHFA into regular training schedules demonstrates a proactive approach to mental health, a commitment that extends beyond tokenistic gestures.

So, here’s a call to arms: let’s prioritise MHFA training. Make it as commonplace as first aid for physical injuries. Equip yourself and your teams with the tools to understand, empathise, and assist. Our society’s mental wellbeing is a collective responsibility, and this is a vital step in safeguarding it.

The Path Forward

Awareness is the first step, but action must follow. Here’s what we can do:

Year-Round Initiatives: Organisations should integrate mental health initiatives into their annual plans, not just align with global awareness days.

Government Action: The government must prioritise mental health in tangible ways, including passing relevant bills and allocating adequate funds.

Education and Training: More professionals should be trained in mental health first aid, ensuring that help is available and accessible when needed.

Community Engagement: Grassroots movements, community conversations, and local support groups can help sustain the momentum and make mental health a part of the public discourse.

In conclusion, as we commemorate World Mental Health Day, let it be a reminder that our commitment should extend beyond the confines of a single day. Our minds, our rights. Let’s put our minds to the task and focus on raising awareness and driving tangible change for better mental health for all.

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A Leap of Faith Skydiving for the Mental Health Foundation

6th September 2023

by Mike Lawrence Anxiety Confidence Depression employee mental health Sheffield Health and Wellbeing Mental Health At Work mental health at work Sheffield Mental Health First Aid Training MHFA Stress stress help Sheffield Stress Management stress relief Sheffield Suicide wellbeing in the workplace Sheffield workplace mental health Sheffield workplace wellbeing Sheffield

Though not necessarily brave, I’ve always considered myself an adventurer at heart. Maybe a bit daft, even. In my work as a mental health first aid instructor and a private practice consultant, I see people who grapple with social anxiety, stress, and depression.

I often preach the gospel of stepping outside one’s comfort zone. But hey, it’s easier said than done, right?

Inspired by our ancestors who braved saber-tooth tigers and trekked miles for food, I took the plunge for the Mental Health Foundation. But this leap was more than just a tick off my bucket list; it was deeply personal. Last year, I had a pituitary tumour removed. That intense experience made me reevaluate my priorities; ever since then, self-care has been at the top of my list.

Now, back to the plane. My instructor, Josh, was a pro. His pre-jump brief was as exciting as listening to a speech by Rishi Sunak, which oddly calmed my nerves. “Place your hands across your chest, wrap your legs around the underside of the plane, and head back,” he advised as if telling me how to tie my shoes.

The plane taxied down a short runway under a cloudless sky. Perfect weather—unlike the cancelled jump a few weeks prior due to bad visibility. We reached an altitude of 14,000ft, and I found myself afloat among skydiving aficionados and charity-driven daredevils like myself.

Josh handed me goggles so tight they made me look like a cartoon character whose eyes might pop out at any moment. Then, the plane’s door opened, and for a fleeting moment, I imagined myself getting sucked out like in a bad action movie.

One by one, people took their leaps. I mimicked a mantra in my head, “Hands across the chest, feet under the plane, head up, wait for the tap, then Superman.” Finally, it was my turn.

As I inched closer to the edge, my brain screamed, “What the bleep are you doing, Mike?!” But before I could complete that thought, gravity took over. I was tumbling through the air, screaming, but also oddly liberated.

Josh gave me the much-anticipated tap. I thrust my arms forward, miming Superman, grinning like a madman. And just like that, the sheer terror transformed into an adrenaline-fueled euphoria.

As we descended, Josh handed me the parachute controls. “What happens if you let go?” a devilish voice in my head wondered. Ignoring it, I swivelled left and right, marvelling at the beauty below.
Eventually, Josh guided us toward the landing zone. “Legs to the chest, then out in front,” he instructed. And we landed like pros—or rather, he did; I was just along for the ride.

“What was it like?” the cameraman asked. “Absolutely insane!” I blurted out, my heart still racing.

This was not just a thrill-seeker’s dream but a defining moment that combined personal growth, healing, and advocacy for a cause I deeply believe in mental health. Skydiving was a literal and metaphorical fall into a new understanding of life and resilience, a perfect symbol of my journey from a patient to the pinnacle of self-care.

Thanks to this experience, I’m even more committed to championing mental health. I took a leap for myself and everyone who has been where I was. So, let’s soar to new heights together in our collective fight for better mental health.

Would you like to help, too? Please spread the word, donate, and let’s make a difference. Because sometimes, a leap of faith is what it takes to move mountains.

My Personal Path to Wellbeing at Mangosteen Ayurveda & Wellness Resort

13th August 2023

by Mike Lawrence Anxiety Confidence employee mental health Sheffield Health and Wellbeing Life coach in Sheffield life coach Sheffield Life Coaching life coaching Sheffield mental health at work Sheffield Mental Health First Aid Training MHFA stress help Sheffield Stress Management stress relief Sheffield Suicide workplace mental health Sheffield workplace wellbeing Sheffield

The Rejuvenation Journey

Introduction

Life’s challenges had recently consumed me. A pituitary tumour diagnosis, months of recovery, and the mounting pressure of returning to work left me in dire need of a sanctuary. That sanctuary? The Mangosteen Ayurveda & Wellness Resort in Phuket, Thailand.

A Unique Retreat: Mangosteen Ayurveda & Wellness Resort Authentic Ayurveda in Thailand

Mangosteen is more than a resort; it’s a haven for those seeking genuine Ayurvedic healing, with professionals trained to an impeccable standard.

Choosing the AyurYoga Panchakarma 7-night Retreat

Why I Chose Panchakarma

After my health challenges, I sought a programme tailored to rejuvenate me, and Panchakarma seemed just right. The retreat’s offerings, from personalised treatments to nourishing Ayurvedic cuisine, promise holistic healing.

My Treatment Programme

Over seven days, I underwent various treatments, from Abhyanga massages to detoxifying procedures.

Personal Reflections: More Than Just Treatments

Each day brought a fresh wave of relaxation, energy, and rejuvenation. I felt my stresses melt away, replaced with newfound vigour. While I expected peace, the profound sense of refreshment was a delightful surprise.

Ayurvedic Doctor

During the final consultation, my Ayurvedic doctor remarked at the end of my programme, “You’ve lost 5kgs, but beyond that, your energy seems more balanced, more harmonious.” It wasn’t just about weight but the transformation inside and out.

Educational Insights into Ayurveda

With roots in ancient India, Ayurveda is more than a medical system; it’s a way of life. Centred on the ‘doshas’ or bodily humour, Ayurveda teaches balance. I was intrigued to learn more about the benefits of the oils and treatments; therefore, My Ayurvedic doctor introduced me to the “Textbook of Ayurveda: Volume 1 – Fundamental Principles of Ayurveda” by Dr Vasant Lad, a foundational text. Additionally, I was given the Ashwagandha supplement, known for its rejuvenating properties.

Beyond Treatment: Life in Phuket

From ethical elephant sanctuaries to rigorous Muay Thai training sessions and a speed boat trip over to PHI PHI Islands, Phuket offered both relaxation and adventure.

Testimonials from the Resort Owners

Hajo, one of the resort owners, told me, “Your journey, from where you started to where you’ve reached, truly resonates with Mangosteen’s ethos of holistic healing. We’re delighted to have been a part of it.”

Call to Action: Your Path to Healing

Consider your wellbeing. It’s time you treat yourself through a wellness retreat or simple moments of self-care in your daily routine.

Conclusion

My journey at Mangosteen was a lesson in the importance of self-care. Not only did I find physical rejuvenation, but I also discovered the strength within to tackle life’s challenges head-on.

Reflections on the Secrets to a Longer Life

13th August 2023

by Mike Lawrence Health and Wellbeing MHFA Sleep Deprivation Stress Management stress relief Sheffield workplace mental health Sheffield workplace wellbeing Sheffield

It’s rather peculiar how we often search for the key to longevity, health, and wellness in today’s fast-paced world. Recently, I chanced upon an article – a veritable treasure trove of information – that delved deep into habits that might add some golden years to our lives. From an everyday person’s perspective in the UK, this exploration hooked me. So, I’ve distilled the article’s essence and wish to share a reflective insight.

Now, imagine a life where your choices at 40 years could add another 24 years to your timeline. This isn’t a hypothetical – it’s based on an expansive study focusing on the lives of US veterans. What struck me profoundly was that despite chronic diseases or conditions, adjusting lifestyle choices still reaped benefits.

The underlying message? It’s never too late.

While the numbers vary between men and women, the pattern is clear: each healthy habit adopted adds a few more precious years. Even as a layperson, it’s evident that our choices compound over time. Essentially, a little here and a little there might lead to a treasure at the end of life’s journey.

Now, let’s navigate the choices. Exercise sits proudly atop the list. Over here, in the UK, we’ve seen a surge in the culture of running, cycling, and other fitness trends. Seeing that regular activity could slash our risk of premature demise by a whopping 46% is invigorating. And it’s not just about gruelling gym sessions; even a brisk walk up the stairs counts!

Another alarm bell – opioids. In recent years, the UK has witnessed a steady rise in opioid prescriptions and related deaths. Here’s a habit we need to pay heed to. Similarly, the importance of reducing tobacco use, managing stress, and focusing on a plant-based diet echoes worldwide health guidelines. It’s pretty remarkable to observe how these choices are universally applicable, no matter where you reside.

But let’s talk about two often overlooked aspects: sleep and social relationships. Sleep often gets compromised in the hustle of modern UK life, where work and social pressures run high. Yet, the significance of a peaceful night’s sleep resonates more deeply now.

Meanwhile, social relationships ring truer than ever, especially in these trying times of isolation. Despite our hyper-connected world, loneliness remains an Achilles’ heel for many, making the importance of positive relationships all the more evident.

In conclusion, this article has reaffirmed my belief – that life’s not just about the number of years we live but the quality we infuse into them.

Whether adopting an active lifestyle or nurturing our social connections, every small effort counts.

Here’s to making choices that add years to our life and life to our years. Cheers!

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Train as a Mental Health First Aider (MHFAider®) and receive 3 years of certification

13th January 2023

by Mike Lawrence Health and Wellbeing mental health at work Sheffield Stress Stress Management stress relief Sheffield Uncategorised workplace mental health Sheffield

This course is for those who would like to become an MHFAider®, whether in the workplace or as individuals, to gain the knowledge and skills to spot signs of people experiencing poor mental health and be confident to start a conversation and signpost a person to appropriate support.

In addition to the course, you will become part of the largest MHFAider® community in England, gaining access to resources, ongoing learning and 24/7 digital support through the MHFAider Support App® to give you the tools and knowledge you need to carry out the role effectively and confidently whether that be in your workplace a volunteer role or in the community.

How to book

Click here to reserve your place, or if you would like more information on individual and group bookings, feel free to get in touch at enquiries@mikelawrence.co.uk or contact Mike at 0114 670 081.

Course outcomes

As an MHFAider®, you will be able to:

Recognise those experiencing poor mental health and provide them with first-level support and early intervention
Encourage a person to identify and access sources of professional help and other supports
Practise active listening and empathy
Have a conversation with improved mental health literacy around language and stigma
Discuss the MHFAider® role in depth, including boundaries and confidentiality
Practise self-care
Know how to use the MHFAider Support App®
Know how to access a dedicated text service provided by Shout and ongoing learning opportunities with MHFA England

Structure

The online 2-day course is structured across four flexible sessions covering 14 hours of content in total.
Each session is a maximum of 3hrs 45mins.
Learning takes place through a mix of instructor-led training, group discussions individual and group activities.
Each session builds on the previous one, enabling the learner to gain confidence in supporting others using the MHFA action plan.
Numbers are limited to 16 per course so learners can be kept safe and supported whilst they learn.
Learning content will be as accessible and inclusive as possible (please contact if additional support is required).

Takeaways

Everyone who completes this course gets the following:
A hard copy workbook to support their learning throughout the course
A digital manual to refer to whenever they need it after completing the course
A wallet-sized reference card with the Mental Health First Aid action plan
A digital MHFAider® certificate
Access to the MHFAider Support App® for three years
Access to ongoing learning opportunities, resources and exclusive events 
The opportunity to be part of the largest MHFAider® community in England

How to book

Click here to reserve your place, or if you would like more information on individual and group bookings, feel free to get in touch at enquiries@mikelawrence.co.uk or contact Mike at 0114 670 081.

New course and benefits

The workplace has changed for people and organisations. In the last few years, we’ve seen a global pandemic, economic downturns, cost of living pressures, adaptation to hybrid working the great resignation and a recruitment crisis. It has taken a toll on employees, and now – more than ever – they need mental health support in the workplace.

Mental Health First Aiders (MHFAiders®) are crucial to helping boost employee wellbeing as we adjust to a profoundly changed workplace environment. But while MHFAiders® work to support others, they need support too.

At MHFA England, providing support, building confidence and growing a community to drive change is crucial to us. It isn’t a footnote or a half-hearted line in the small print. We’ve spent 15 years generating conversation around workplace mental health, and we understand that being an effective MHFAider® requires learning and support beyond training.

That’s why we offer ongoing support to help MHFAiders® feel confident and empowered – long after they’ve completed their training course.

Additionally, MHFAiders® receive access to exclusive events to continue developing their support for your workplace beyond the training course.

The MHFAider Support App® provides training resources and ongoing learning opportunities so that MHFAiders® can improve their support skills on the job.
MHFAiders® can help organise their roles with reminders and secure conversation journaling to reflect on their work safely.
The MHFAider Support App® works to support the MHFAider® own mental health – the resources within can teach critical self-care skills with the emotion tracker function allowing them to chart their own wellbeing.
The app provides 24/7 text support for when MHFAiders® are feeling overwhelmed or need guidance for certain situations.
MHFAiders® have access to regular online events that provide further learning and support, allowing them to continue to perform their role confidently and effectively long after receiving their initial training.

Cancellation Policy

Payment must be made before attending the course, as this will convert you to a delegate and trigger the provision of your course resources.
Confirmation of payment and your booking will be confirmed by email. If you have not received this, don’t hesitate to get in touch with me.
To cancel or reschedule, please be aware that only courses cancelled within 48 hours of booking can be refunded.
No refund is available on any booking cancellation before the course start date after the 48-hour cooling-off period.
A course booking can be rescheduled up to 7 days before the course start date. This can be rescheduled to either an online course or face-to-face.

How to book

Click here to reserve your place, or if you would like more information on individual and group bookings, feel free to get in touch at enquiries@mikelawrence.co.uk or contact Mike at 0114 670 081.

The importance of training in the new Mental Health First Aider (MHFAider®) in the workplace

10th October 2022

by Mike Lawrence Anxiety corporate wellness companies Sheffield Corporate Wellness Programme employee mental health Sheffield Mental Health At Work mental health at work Sheffield Mental Health First Aid Training stress help Sheffield Stress Management wellbeing in the workplace Sheffield workplace mental health Sheffield workplace wellbeing Sheffield

Let’s start the conversation

Today is World Mental Health Day 2022, it highlights the fact that mental health issues can affect anyone at any time.

The theme this year is ensuring mental health becomes a global priority.

Focusing on our own mental health first and looking at all aspects of our life.

Work is a huge part of this, and the office environment has changed for employees and businesses.

In recent years, we’ve seen a global covid pandemic, economic decline, cost of living crisis, the adoption of hybrid working, the great resignation and a recruitment crisis. It has taken its toll on employees, and now – more than ever – they need mental health support in the workplace.

So, what responsibility does a business have for its staff in this area?

Obviously, a business has a “duty of care” and “corporate social responsibility” but is that enough?

Mike Lawrence Award-winning Health & Wellbeing Management Consultant and MHFA England Instructor Member suggests not:

The latest report from Deloitte suggests employers see a return of £5 on average for every £1 invested in staff wellbeing,

Independent study and evaluation demonstrate that employees who become an MHFAider® are able to:

Have a conversation with improved mental health literacy around language and stigma
Recognise those that may be experiencing poor mental health and provide them with first-level support and early intervention
Know how to access a dedicated text service provided by Shout and ongoing learning opportunities with MHFA England
Know how to use the MHFAider Support App®

By becoming aware and informed, managers and employees can more readily spot the signs and symptoms of mental health issues and provide the proper support.

Lawrence is hosting a Mental Health First Aider (MHFAider®) training course Redbourn Parish Centre, The Park, Redbourn AL3 7LR on the 20^th and 21^st October

Which learners will become a Mental Health First Aider (MHFAider®) and receive three years of certification, plus access to ongoing benefits.

As an MHFAider® you will be able to:

Encourage a person to identify and access sources of professional help and other supports
Practise active listening and empathy
Discuss the MHFAider® role in depth, including boundaries and confidentiality
Practise self-care
Access to ongoing learning opportunities, resources and exclusive events
Be part of the largest MHFAider® community in England

For more information click here

Are You Willing To Forgo Anything For Your Holiday?

30th May 2022

by Mike Lawrence Anxiety Confidence corporate wellness companies Sheffield Depression employee mental health Sheffield Financial Wellbeing Health and Wellbeing Mental Health At Work mental health at work Sheffield Mental Health First Aid Training Stress stress help Sheffield Stress Management stress management Sheffield stress relief Sheffield treat stress Sheffield workplace mental health Sheffield workplace wellbeing Sheffield

Many of us who’ve not been away due to the COVID pandemic are desperate to get away for some summer sun. Surveys and reports in the media suggest a surge in holiday bookings as demand returns to pre-pandemic levels despite household finances facing a squeeze from surging inflation. Tour operator TUI reports that summer bookings are up by 19%.

Holidays can help with anxiety and stress-related problems by giving us time to relax, have downtime and allow us to use the time to find solutions to problems.

Holidays enable us to catch up on much-needed sleep and rest. Whilst we are sleeping, our brains consolidate information and memories from the day, which improves our mental functioning, problem-solving, memory and creativity.

Holidays boost relationships with friends and family. You get to spend quality time with partners and children, strengthening social bonds. Time with your kids also increases their self-esteem and sense of security and enriches family values.

However, for some, the urge to escape and get away, hoping that the life you left behind will improve on their return, can come at a cost.

Brits Spent up to a Quarter of their Annual Disposable Income on Holidays each Year

Nationwide Building Society’s published spending report revealed that Brits spent up to a quarter of their annual disposable income on holidays each year. Many seem to have no desire to restrain this spending. On average we spend £855 per person each time we go away, then there’s 23% who spend £1,000 or more each holiday, and a family of four could end up paying £3,240 per trip and up to £6,840 in total.

Figures are taken from the online website Moneyfacts reports that the UK’s annual median disposable household income is £31,400. The cost of holiday spending can take up to three months’ worth of income, or a quarter of the expenditure. Disturbingly, not everybody has this money to hand.

As a result, 22% reported that they had to borrow the money to go on holiday, including using a credit card, taking out a loan or borrowing money from friends or family members. Contrastingly, 43% managed to pay for their holiday using savings, while 35% used cash from their bank account, and 11% were lucky enough to have family members to finance their holiday break.

88% of those who had to borrow money said that this was the only way that they could afford to go away. With the average Brit then taking three months to pay off this holiday – and 11% even taking more than six months.

Yet over half (51%) of respondents said they weren’t willing to forgo anything for their holiday.

That’s not all 61% overspend by £250 and 11% overspend by £500 or more.

Then there’s an additional 20% who don’t set a budget, who might still regret spending more than their bank accounts can bear. Undoubtedly, money is one of the most significant holiday regrets, with 25% feeling they had spent too much money. 21% said they didn’t have enough money to enjoy themselves, and 20% thought their holiday was too expensive.

Loss Aversion Theory

One of the drivers behind our behaviours and decision making could be linked to the loss aversion theory. Loss aversion is a concept that people hate losses more than they enjoy gains.

A cognitive bias that describes why, for people, the pain of losing is psychologically twice as powerful as the pleasure of gaining. The loss felt from money or any other valuable thing can feel worse than gaining that same thing. Studies demonstrate that it impacts our judgement, preference, and decision-making process.

Wellbeing activities don’t have to cost you the earth. Many of us know the benefit of regular exercise, walking, meditation or participation in numerous leisure pursuits, pastimes and hobbies.

Imagine the delight of planning a holiday not because you need to catch up on much-needed sleep. You’re suffering from anxiety or spending time with the family because you haven’t seen them due to work demands.

The outcome of your time away is much more rewarding when you regularly invest time and money and prioritise your mental health and wellbeing.

If you’re currently suffering from emotional overwhelm due to the rise in the cost of living or are worried about an uncertain future, or you need help to improve your confidence and are not sure where to go.

Send an email to enquiries@mikelawrence.co.uk, and I’ll send you a free guide on what to incorporate into your daily routine. Or contact me at 01142 670 081 for a complimentary 40-minute wellbeing review, and I’ll share with you tips that can transform your health and wellbeing when you implement them. Remember, ‘If you do not make time for your wellness, you will be forced to make time for your illness’.

Rediscover Your Confidence The Antidote To Good Mental Health

1st March 2022

by Mike Lawrence Anxiety Confidence Health and Wellbeing Mental Health At Work mental health at work Sheffield Mental Health First Aid Training Stress Management stress relief Sheffield

JOIN THE WAITLIST FOR

REDISCOVER YOUR CONFIDENCE THE ANTIDOTE FOR GOOD MENTAL HEALTH

If you’re feeling stressed, worried about the future, or the covid experience has affected your confidence business and your family. And looking to start taking back the control COVID took from you. So that you feel more motivated, confident, and back in control of your life again. The rediscover your confidence the antidote to good mental health course is just what you need.

Give yourself credit for what you’ve already achieved and how far you’ve come. You are the type of person who is always looking at improving your mental health and wellbeing, listening to motivational YouTube videos to find solutions to your challenges, subscribing to Headspace or Calm to help you with lack of sleep, stress, depression and anxiety. Or, the alternative – taking a range of prescription drugs for many years to manage your wellbeing, but you don’t seem to be getting any better? And no one seems to get to the root cause of your problems because it keeps recurring? If that sounds like you, then you’re in the right place.

By the end of this program,
you will have…

Good Mental Health
You will feel more motivated, confident, and back in control of your life again so that you’re able to achieve and do the activities that you’ve always wanted to do.
Visible Behavioral Transformation
Clients like you typically see results within 3 to 6 months of taking the course when they follow and implement all the steps.
A Step by Step Framework to Support You
Provide you with a step by step framework and roadmap so that you can navigate back to where you belong. The reason why most people quit is that they don’t have any accountability. What gets measured gets done, following the framework and tools that I provide, will help you to stay on track and achieve your goals.
Discover the Hidden and Deep-Rooted Problems that play Havoc with your Mental Wellbeing
Understanding the root cause of your problem, the issues that have been holding you back for many years and now you have a plan at last to overcome them.
Healthy Coping Strategies for Managing Your Mental Health
Develop healthy coping strategies which will enable you to manage current and future bumps in the road and recognise the signs and symptoms before they surface.

Course Overview

In this five-week course, you will go from feeling stressed, anxious or depressed to feeling more confident and back in control. The covid experience has affected your confidence, business, and your family. You may feel like you’ve forgotten who you are, or you are simply trying to find a new direction in life. Well – if you want to start taking back the control COVID took from you, you’re in luck! In the rediscover your confidence the antidote to good mental health course, you’ll learn essential tools and tips to help you fulfil your true potential.

What People Are Saying

“At the age of fifty-two, you imagine you’ve got most things about life and relationships sorted out. But sometimes.. stuff happens that knocks your heart, soul and spirit about. When this happened to me, I am eternally grateful that it felt right to trust Mike to be able to share what was going on. His extensive experience, balanced blend of coaching and counselling, sensitive listening and varied techniques truly helped me process my feelings and in turn, regain my natural happiness. Thanks Mike.”

Be First to Know When The Doors to Rediscover Your Confidence The Antidote To Good Mental Health Opens!

Get ready for a treat! You’ll receive email alerts for special bonus offers and be notified as soon as the doors open so you get in ahead of the crowd.

Join The Wait List

What is self-care, and why it’s important?

7th November 2021

by Mike Lawrence Health and Wellbeing Life coach in Sheffield life coaching Sheffield Stress stress help Sheffield Stress Management Uncategorised

Self Care The term self-care is growing in popularity, but do you know what it really means in practice and considerations that will directly benefit your confidence – mental health and wellbeing.

Self-care is the habit of consistently and consciously improving your physical and mental wellbeing.

What are examples of self-care?

Any activity that you do to make yourself feel cared for or better can be regarded as self-care, such as going for a walk, having a massage, or visiting the dentist.

Why the importance of Self-Care?

We spend more time planning holidays, decorating our homes, buying new clothes for our wardrobes or planning a wedding than we do for ourselves, why do you think that is?

You might say you lead a hectic life and you don’t put yourself first, especially if you have a family with multiple duties, a single parent, a stressful job, or a long commute to work. However, taking care of yourself will make you feel better, and the better you are, the more confident you will be in all aspects of your life – from relationships to work.

Self-care doesn’t have to involve an enormous commitment in time, and it doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. It could be relaxing in a bath, reading a motivational book, taking time out to practice mindfulness. It’s about committing to putting yourself first.

The benefits of self-care?

A significant part of self-care is committing to looking after your whole self and becoming more aligned with what you need. Whether it’s more exercise, getting more quality sleep, visiting a healthcare expert to assist with any aches, pains or niggles. Your self-care programme should focus on looking after your mental, emotional, physical health and wellbeing.

Self-care can reduce depression, anxiety and stress.
Creating time for relaxing activities, such as practising mindfulness or yoga, plus listening to music, are more familiar self-care pursuits.
Activities to make you feel more relaxed and help reduce depression, stress and anxiety and lift your spirits.

Self-care can boost your resilience and self-confidence

Throughout your life, you’ll face challenges, whether in your professional or personal life.

A key component of being resilient is understanding that change and setbacks are a part of everyday life.

Psychologists have identified circumstances that form a resilient person. Among them are:

A positive attitude.
The ability to direct emotions.
The ability to see failure as a form of helpful feedback.

People who are more resilient view difficult situations as a ‘challenge’ to overcome. They view mistakes and failure as lessons to be learned from and as opportunities for development and growth.

While we cannot always avoid them, we can be flexible, remain open and willing to change, adapt and evolve. Self-esteem and confidence play a key component in the recovery from challenging situations. Remember to constantly remind yourself of your strengths and be confident in your ability and approach to react and deal with the setbacks you’ll encounter.

Self-care preserves your mental health and wellbeing

Prioritising self-care can assist in controlling mental health concerns and might even prevent them from getting worse.

Of course, self-care is not a replacement for professional help. If you are suffering from depression, anxiety, stress or another mental health issue, it’s advisable to seek help from your doctor or a health and wellbeing professional.

Nevertheless, deciding to look to take care of your wellbeing will improve your quality of life.

Self-care can lead to a better relationship with yourself

Self-care is about looking internally at yourself and your mental wellbeing. The relationship you have with yourself is vital to your mental health and wellbeing, plus developing happy and healthy relationships with others.

Most people will look outwards towards others for friendship, love, and happiness, rather than looking internally at themselves and developing self-love and self-care.

Practising self-care and being good to yourself regularly is one of the most beneficial things you can do for yourself.

“The relationship with yourself sets the tone for every other relationship you have.” Robert Holden

Action:

I’ve created an easy, effective, robust system that anyone suffering from a lack of confidence, motivation or resilience could immediately apply and benefit from when they work with me. I help people rediscover their identity to feel physically robust and better equipped mentally; ultimately, they feel in better control of their lives.

Please get in touch with me directly for more information about how this can work for you. Email enquiries@mikelawrence.co.uk or call 07967 052585.

Preserving your Mental Health over the festive period

15th December 2020

by Mike Lawrence Anxiety Confidence Divorce Coaching Health and Wellbeing Life coach in Sheffield life coach Sheffield life coaching Sheffield stress help Sheffield Stress Management stress relief Sheffield

Preserving your Mental Health over the festive period

The festive break is almost upon us and the countdown to Christmas has well and truly begun. If you’re like me, you may be thinking, “How will I get everything done?” Christmas brings its challenges—particularly this year, with the ever-changing rules around social distancing and who you can have in your bubble. It’s certainly a period of time that many people can find quite stressful.

During a month where energy, money and ‘happy appearances’ are overstretched, unhealthy food and alcohol tend to be readily available. It’s understandable that your mental health may fluctuate.

The pandemic has been one of the biggest challenges many of us have faced in our lifetimes. People have lost loved ones to the virus and other conditions during 2020. The ongoing threat to our lives has seen some people make huge changes, such as beginning divorce proceedings or moving house. Hundreds of thousands of people have been made redundant this year, and the pressure felt by those who run non-essential businesses—as well as employees within the hospitality, travel and tourism sectors—has been significant.

No doubt we’re all looking forward to Christmas this year, given what 2020 has thrown at us. Even though the pandemic has made us truly appreciate our families, disputes can often occur when we spend more time with them.

The following tips will help you manage the Christmas period so that it doesn’t weigh down on your Mental Health and Wellbeing.

Seek Help and Ask for Support

Arguably one of the busiest and most stressful times of the year can be the run-up to the festive break, as you race to clear the workload on your desk and meet your boss’s deadlines. Don’t be afraid to seek help and be realistic with what you’re capable of producing.

Plan Ahead

Evaluate your workload, review everything you’ve got to do. Set a list of priorities and identify what really has to be done before the festive break, and what can be deferred until you return. If you don’t have time to get everything done before you go on leave, speak to your manager to discuss solutions.

Time Management

If new job requests hit your in-tray, don’t feel obliged to take on the work. Manage other people’s expectations when it comes to realistically completing the tasks. They may not have sight of your workload nor be aware of your current schedule, deadlines or priorities.

Take Time Out

Ensure that you take breaks away from your desk or workstation. Exercise and take regular breaks throughout the day are essential for your mental health as well as your physical health. The Pomodoro Technique is a popular time management method to assist you in getting through tasks in short bursts while taking regular breaks that would ordinarily distract you, therefore enabling you to complete them.

Flexible Working

You may want to consider asking for flexible working. Many employers that were previously not keen on allowing such practices have now cottoned on to the benefits that come from their employees working from home, once they were forced to adopt this way of working during lockdown periods.

Manage your working day better by coming in early or staying later, if this is viable, and get your work done during quieter periods.

Christmas and New Year

If you’re working between Christmas and the New Year, have a list of Duty Managers or people that you can contact should you require any assistance. The office tends to be less busy and staffing levels lower over the festive period; some people enjoy working at this time of year, due to fewer distractions that allow them to get more work done. You can also use this time to catch up on projects and that dreaded admin.

Christmas Cheer

Relax, unwind and enjoy. Make sure you treat yourself. Enjoy seeing the people in your bubble and try not to think about work.

PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE DO NOT…

…check your work emails unless it’s absolutely essential. If you have to do this, restrict the number of times you do so and consider turning off the respective notifications.

Health and Wellbeing

If you don’t have an exercise routine in place, try not to overindulge on unhealthy food or drink. It’s vital to use your holiday to relax and unwind, but trying to stay active should make returning to work less of a worry.

Plan your Return

Create a list and prioritise important tasks, so you know what you will need to do on your return
It’s advisable to leave a couple of days free from meetings and deadlines so you can hit the ground running on your first day back
If you created a checklist of tasks to complete in the New Year, make an immediate start to gain momentum
Whether you’re returning to work the day after Boxing Day, or you’re taking a longer break, don’t allow your usual routine to slip too much

Hopefully, these tips will help you return to work feeling fully refreshed and energised.

I hope you have a lovely festive break!

If you’re considering raising awareness within your organisation of Mental Health or Health and Wellbeing, please get in touch and book your free 40-minute consultation.

Telephone 0114 670 081 or email enquiries@mikelawrence.co.uk

Could the Current COVID-19 Pandemic Make Your Seasonal Affected Disorder Worse?

25th November 2020

by Mike Lawrence best life coach Sheffield Confidence Corporate Wellness Programme Life coach in Sheffield life coach Sheffield Seasonal Affective Disorder Stress stress help Sheffield Stress Management stress management Sheffield stress relief Sheffield treat stress Sheffield

Helpful tips for managing Seasonal Affected Disorder—SAD for short, or winter blues—during these uncertain and challenging times.

I hate to say it, but we’re already weeks away from the end of summer.

This year is significantly different for some people; as well as having to manage their Seasonal Affective Disorder, they’re also having to cope with the relentless demands placed on their daily lives due to lockdown—plus, the stress and anxiety of perpetual uncertainty.

I’ve already noticed mood shifts in some of my clients, friends and colleagues.

It’s going to be challenging for people who experience SAD as winter approaches—incredibly difficult, because restrictions imposed by the government will most likely highlight some of the conditions that promote SAD, such as spending less time outdoors.

SAD is a recognised medical condition. You may therefore wish to consult your GP if you believe you might be suffering from the symptoms of SAD and you’re unable to, or trying but struggling to, cope.

SAD is thought to impact two million people in the UK and 10-20% of sufferers do not have any associated symptoms. It’s a concern that afflicts more women than men, and those aged between 40 and 55.

There’s a direct link between SAD and the reduction in daylight hours, due to the lack of sunlight affecting sufferers’ hormone levels and internal body clocks. Symptoms include a lack of energy, increased tiredness, poor motivation, low moods, despair, sleep problems, depression, anxiety and feelings of gloom for no apparent reason—and a craving for carbohydrates and sweet foods, which can lead to weight gain.

With our frenetic lifestyles, we often miss vital signals from the sun, and our body clocks suffer as a result. Without decent light in the morning, our bodies don’t produce the hormones we require to wake and feel alive.

When there is less light in the morning, we can also feel less productive.

Staying up for hours after dark can cause mood and sleep problems. Sleep, our overall activity, and how we feel, are all regulated by our body clocks.

When your body doesn’t get the appropriate light signals, you might feel moody, sluggish, and tired. To counteract this, your body needs to produce active, energetic hormones, so that the negative, withdrawal ones are subdued. Positive hormones help to reset your mood, sleep, and energy cycles, so that you sleep better at night and feel fabulous during the day.

The great news is that a Health and Wellbeing Consultant can help you combat symptoms and implement changes in your lifestyle, with quick results.

A Health and Wellbeing Consultant can help you in the following areas: they can keep you motivated, and support you if you’re suffering from stress, depression or anxiety. They can help you understand why you’re feeling tired all the time (TATT), show you how to manage your mood swings, and offer encouragement if you’re feeling despondent due to the impact of the pandemic.

People have experienced AMAZING transformations during the winter blues when engaging the services of a competent practitioner.

I’ve created an easy, effective, powerful system that anyone suffering from a lack of confidence, motivation or resilience could immediately apply and benefit from when they work with me. I help people rediscover their identity, so that they feel physically robust and better equipped mentally; ultimately, they feel in better control of their lives.

What one thing will you do this winter to take charge of your winter blues?

If you’re feeling SAD and curious about how you will benefit from working with a Health and Wellbeing Consultant, get in touch with me and book your free 40-minute consultation.

Telephone 07967 052585 or email enquiries@mikelawrence.co.uk

It’s Time to Find Your Flow

1st October 2020

by Mike Lawrence Health and Wellbeing Life Coaching mental health at work Sheffield Stress Stress Management

Our daily way of life has changed for many. We may have heard about the need for businesses to pivot and as we wait for the new normal to evolve and take shape. How do we find our new flow or adopt a new flow to enable you to achieve your goals?

I believe that to survive and thrive, it is essential to recognize, understand and reclaim your flow for your protection, preservation and salvation.

Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi describes flow as “the state in which people are so involved in an activity that nothing else seems to matter; the experience itself is so enjoyable that people will do it even at great cost, for the sheer sake of doing it.” So, why do you think flow matters?

Why Flow Matters to Me

I know from my personal experience that when I’m in the ‘zone’ with a client, my mobile phone is on silent, notifications are switched off and I am entirely focused on the task at hand, not thinking about responding to emails, returning calls, or writing reports. I’m in the present; I’m giving my client my full attention; therefore, the client and I have the best experience.

When an athlete is ‘zoning’, their conscious mind becomes quiet (the normally busy, chattering mind we use all the time), and this allows their more powerful subconscious to run their performance on ‘automatic pilot’, in the way a computer runs software.

This allows their movements to flow much easier, effortlessly increasing speed and power in a way that could never be matched by conscious thought. Therefore, when you are in the zone, you have virtually no thought going through your mind whatsoever, your body is just moving on instinct and autopilot, powered directly by your subconscious mind.

Lewis Hamilton’s Formula for Success

I have a confession to make and it is no secret that I’m a huge fan of Lewis Hamilton and I’ve followed his Formula 1 career.

Hamilton having accumulated six F1 World Championships, one behind the legendary Michael Schumacher. Journalists and fans argue whether Hamilton is one of the most successful Formula 1 drivers in history. There is only one other driver who has won more Formula 1 races and championship titles. That is – Michael

Schumacher, with 91 and 7 respectively. Hamilton currently stands on 90 and 6.

Another great legend of the sport, Ayrton Senna, famously proclaimed following his great lap around the streets of Monaco that he “was no longer driving consciously. I was in a different dimension, it frightened me because I realized I was well beyond my conscious understanding.”

In this year’s Spanish Grand Prix, a triumphant Hamilton announced over the team radio;

“I was just in a daze out there. I was in a different zone. There is an immense amount of pressure on all of us to perform, and the goal is always to chase to perfection and be in that zone. You can be close but not in your perfect rhythm, but for whatever reason, and I can’t quite pinpoint why it felt like I was in the clearest zone with a clarity.

I do not know how you to get in that space, but I felt fantastic in the car. I did not make mistakes, and I delivered lap upon lap – it is the zone that I dream of being in. I was ecstatic when I came across the line. I didn’t realize it was still the last lap. I was still going like a horse with those blockers on.

For me, it is right up there in terms of how I drove, how I really delivered and up there with some of the best performances that I feel I have done. I am definitely going to have a glass of wine tonight to celebrate.”

I actually had the pleasure of speaking with Lewis Hamilton’s father, Anthony, at Silverstone a couple of years ago, and I asked him where Lewis gets his energy from, and he told me that he feeds off the British crowd and he feels it in his gut!

Actions to Consider on Achieving your Flow

There is no exact blueprint for achieving flow, but here are some steps you can take to make it easier, based on some of the findings of Csikszentmihalyi’s research.

Check that you have a Balanced Healthy Diet

Junk foods and energy drinks give you a short-term boost in energy.

Chris Bailey from A Life of Productivity adds, “When you eat anything processed, the oil refinery in your stomach converts it into a heap of glucose that storms your brain all at once, which causes your energy levels to rollercoaster. Instead, you need high-quality fuel that will release glucose slowly into your bloodstream. What you eat depends on your dietary preferences and general tastes, but in general, you can’t go wrong with nuts, fruits, vegetables, seeds, and lean meats. Avoid processed foods and lots of added sugar/sweeteners.”

Avoid Constant Distractions

You will never achieve flow if you are distracted. Your brain can not handle it. Indeed, there are circumstances in which distractions are unavoidable. But most of the time, you can work to minimize or eliminate distractions. Here are some of my favourite strategies for doing so:

Read or listen to empowering audiobooks
Put your phone in aeroplane mode when you don’t want to be disturbed (or, better still, in another room)
Listen to uplifting and inspirational music
Create a quiet place to relax, refocus and reenergize
Schedule blocks of uninterrupted time in your diary
Meditate to get into a mindful state
Treat yourself to a therapeutic massage
Use the Pomodoro technique (read the next paragraph)

Use the Pomodoro Technique

The Pomodoro technique is setting a timer for 25 minutes (or any reasonable length of time) and working only on one task for that time. No checking your phone, browsing Facebook or your LinkedIn feed.

The Pomodoro technique makes this possible by helping you jump the most significant mental barrier: getting started. Because once you’re immersed in a task, you may find yourself working well past when the timer goes off. It’s a free app and available online TomatoTimer.

Complete one Task at a Time

It may surprise you that multitasking reduces your performance and efficiency because your brain can only focus on one task at a time. When you attempt to do more than one thing, your mind cannot perform both tasks successfully.

Get a Good Night’s Rest

We have heard it all before; sleep is a game-changer for your general health and well-being. But it is also key to reaching flow states. If you are tired, your ability to concentrate will decrease, and smaller distractions will more easily pull you away from the flow.

When you’re asleep, your body repairs and replenishes itself, it needs this time to repair muscles, consolidate memories and release hormones that maintain growth and digestion.

Good-quality sleep helps control your appetite to promote good overall health and support your immune system.

If you know anyone in your world, friends, neighbours, work colleagues who you think would benefit from spending some time with me, please ask them to get in touch. I’d be delighted to arrange a free 30-minute consultation.

Telephone 07967 052585 or email enquiries@mikelawrence.co.uk

How I Continued To Support My Clients Through Lockdown Due To A Pandemic!!

24th May 2020

by Mike Lawrence Anxiety Corporate Wellness Programme employee mental health Sheffield Health and Wellbeing Holistic Therapies stress help Sheffield Stress Management workplace mental health Sheffield

Monday 23rd March seems a long time away, but that was the last client I saw face to face in my clinic in Broomhill Sheffield. I remember the session very well; she wasn’t typical of my clients. They are usually aged between 40 – 50, women business owners who are suffering due to the loss of identity and confidence; who have lost their direction in life due to raising a family, running their own business or driven in their career.

In a nutshell, I help them to rediscover their identity, they gain better clarity, feel more motivated, confident, and in full control of their life.

On this occasion, I was working with a lady who was struggling to cope with her mental health. Her anxiety was affecting her relationship with her partner and her ability to concentrate at work.

The sessions continued over the internet using the Zoom video-conferencing application, as have all my client coaching and consultancy sessions on the easy-to-use platform. However, not everyone is using, or familiar with this programme. Some prefer Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, Go To Meeting, Whatsapp, Skype, Messenger or BlueJeans, described by app developers that it provides an immersive video, audio ad web conferencing experience. It took me ages to download and run this application.

I had to learn how to deal with the unexpected quickly, and oh yes I had plenty of encounters, come on, what would you do if you’re delivering a hypnosis session then you hear a loud knock at the door from the courier driver delivering your Amazon goods? Usually, those items would have been transported to my clinic.

Young children and babies seeking the attention of their mums, then you’ve got the family pets who also want to get in on the act. Or you see the hubby scamper through the bedroom in just his underwear, not realising that his partner has someone else in the bedroom, albeit on the other end of the computer.

Do you want to hear my favourite story? I was delivering an online webinar for the South Yorkshire Expo, which involved sharing my computer screen so that I can present a PowerPoint presentation. I’d hosted a similar event for the Federation of Small Business the week before and a few others during the lockdown, therefore, I was familiar with the setup.

I could see all the delegates online in their little square boxes, some with videos turned off, which is something that I learned to familiarise with rather than being irritated.

The host gave an eloquent introduction then handed over to me. I addressed the online audience and proceeded to provide an overview of my session. At this point, I ensued to share my computer screen, and up popped my carefully rehearsed presentation.

All appeared to be going well, plenty of engagement, good use of the chat facility, and I could see plenty of thumbs up. Until I noted a message in the chatbox, saying “Mike, we only see a picture of a brain.” On my screen, I’d moved on further into the presentation at least seven slides further on.

Oops, my screen share had paused, I’d done this in error and was not aware of this. Therefore, I was yapping away for five minutes or more over a picture of a brain, possibly on a topic which had nothing in common with the brain!!

I received a lovely message following an event which said, thanks so much for the time you spent today giving us some takeaways for our mental positivity. Just seeing your wonderful smile all the way through made a huge difference to the day!

Messages such as this are heartfelt, and this is the very reason why I love what I do.

Adapting to this way of working has definitely been an enjoyable learning curve and who knows this may be the new way of working for many of us in the future.

Telephone 0114 327 2683 or email enquiries@mikelawrence.co.uk

5 Areas of Your Life to Improve Your Wellbeing

23rd April 2020

by Mike Lawrence corporate wellness companies Sheffield Corporate Wellness Programme employee mental health Sheffield Health and Wellbeing mental health at work Sheffield Stress stress help Sheffield Stress Management stress management Sheffield stress relief Sheffield treat stress Sheffield workplace mental health Sheffield workplace wellbeing Sheffield

Imagine, we bring in the dawn of a new decade in January 2020, you make your New Years’ resolution, set goals such as lose weight, stop smoking, save money, find new love, or seek a new career.

Then we start planning holidays, celebrating special occasions with friends, or book concert tickets (which I did in London) and I’m sure many of you may resonate with that.

Then COVID-19 comes along social isolation and lockdown.

For many, this is a worrying and challenging time—the most challenging for many of our lifetime.

I contacted a friend recently who works in an NHS hospital in London. She didn’t take my call but later replied by text, telling me that she was scared, frightened, fearful of her life. I tried to arrange a call, but she declined but thanked me. The pain, heartache and suffering that she’s experienced.

She’s not alone, humans, like all species, have a self-defence mechanism to help us survive. The body’s Fight, Flight or Freeze response is designed to prepare the brain and body in case of pending danger, but the threat doesn’t always happen.

In our head, FFF alarms cause our brain to focus on negative memories, probably so it can scan them and avoid danger and negative outcomes. And it can only do this if we have previously been faced with a threat or a challenging situation and learnt how to deal with it.

Anxiety, depression and high levels of stress all harm the brain’s ability to cancel or slow down the mind’s false fight flight or freeze activations.

Making them appear more often; knowing the symptoms of false activations makes it easier to recognise and reduce their effects because what we need to do is bring the body back to equilibrium.

When you change your mind about stress or challenging situations, you can change your body’s physical response to stress.

Health Psychologist Kelly McGonigal implores us to see stress as a positive, advises us to view stress as a positive and introduces an unacknowledged tool for stress reduction: reaching out to others.

Positive thinking increases the chance of positive outcomes. Vice versa! “Think you can think you can’t – either way, you will be right” Henry Ford. Positive thinking increases the chance of positive outcomes.

5 Tips You Can Use Today in Your Personal Wellbeing Strategy:

Personal Insight – Evaluate your behaviour, characteristics or mood change. Or ask some who knows you well that you trust to be your accountability partner.
Personal Coping Mechanisms– Review your current level of fitness, use this present opportunity to go for daily walks, don’t be tempted to overindulge with more food in the house. Create a daily routine for work and pleasure
Supportive Environments– Can’t just pay lip service or tick a box. Otherwise you could create an imbalance. It’s the employer’s responsibility to provide a safe environment for employees to work in. Working from home can create additional pressure; however, stress is inevitable, whether working from home or the office, so speak to your manager if you require support to adjust.
Communicate and Talk– Up your talk time, bring in support as and when required. It’s not a sign of weakness if you need help. If someone says to you, I’m fine, or I’m OK, don’t take that as gospel. Enquire a little more. Ask what they’ve been doing and take a genuine interest.
Create a Pivot Mindset– A pivot mindset emphasises natural changes within our current job and from one position to the next while staying open to a range of opportunities. One constant in life is that things will change, and they’ll change often, and they’ll change in ways we don’t necessarily like. So why not get better at changing? At dealing with change. Why not adopt the pivoting mindset? Because when we do, these changes will be less stressful, less upsetting and it removes the uncertainty. It’s about building a portfolio of lifelong skills, connections, and expertise, and adapting to new tools and tactics.

How you respond to remote working is completely dependent on your individual needs and triggers—if you feel overwhelmed trying to balance family life and work, worried about the future, or your wellbeing deteriorating due to an underlying condition.— and are unsure what to do, consider talking to you HR advisor or line manager for help. Or you can reach out to me and arrange a free 30-minute chat on Zoom about your possibilities.

Telephone 0114 327 2683 or email enquiries@mikelawrence.co.uk

Working from Home Can Negatively Impact Your Mental Health & Wellbeing Unless You Act!!

17th April 2020

by Mike Lawrence employee mental health Sheffield Health and Wellbeing mental health at work Sheffield Stress stress help Sheffield Stress Management stress management Sheffield stress relief Sheffield treat stress Sheffield wellbeing in the workplace Sheffield workplace mental health Sheffield workplace wellbeing Sheffield

Due to the current Coronavirus pandemic, many UK employees are now working from home for the foreseeable future. This will be the first experience for a huge amount of companies and employees.

Working from home has its advantages but being away from the office and social interaction of an office can take its toll.

Research by the Office of National Statistics highlights that 30% of UK employees worked from home during 2019.

Also, a United Nations report 2017 found that 41% of remote workers reported high-stress levels, compared to just 25% of office workers.

Remote working becomes the new norm for many; its imperative businesses change and put the appropriate mental health and wellbeing policies in place to ensure their employees feel part of the organisation and don’t become detached.

For some businesses forced to make the transition, they will have found themselves ill-equipped to deal with this change. They don’t have a wellbeing policy, managers don’t have regular meetings with their team, the environment is toxic, or there is a culture where there’s a lack of trust.

Employers are now having to pivot while learning new skills on how to manage a virtual workforce some with little or no experience.

I know of some employees who are currently furloughed and tempted to take advantage of this break from the norm where they felt stressed from work and suffer from mental health issues which they haven’t previously reported to their boss.

If you struggle with anxiety or depression, working from home has the potential to aggravate feelings of isolation and prolong inactivity.

6 Actions Managers Can Adopt to Improve the Wellbeing of Their Team – Home Working

Enrol on an online management training course – I have managed remote teams, and from experience, it’s an entirely different skill. Organisations are having to rely on managers to rally the troops and keep everyone motivated. But this is in the backdrop of seven in 10 employers failing to train first-time managers, and the problem is widespread. With the Department of Business, Innovation and Skills estimating the cost of poor management and leadership to the UK economy at £19bn a year through lower productivity.

Review your management style – In a remote working setting, there could be a tendency for managers to be task-orientated and too little on fostering relationships with their remote team. This kind of transactional management can be the route taken by managers who are task-orientated and want to get the tasks done but fail to acknowledge the importance of their team. Such a management approach can worsen the feeling that comes with remote working and can contribute to the stress of working from home.

Introduce daily briefings – In a desperate attempt to become agile, and connect with employees now, who are working remotely. Some companies have introduced breakfast scrum meetings, whereby teams check in daily via video call to rally the troops, provide an update of company news and to check in on everyone’s wellbeing. It’s more important than ever that employers keep in touch daily with their team through telephone and video conferencing.

Schedule daily 1-2-1’s – Seeing a friendly face on a video conferencing platform from work can go a long way to improving an employee’s wellbeing and confidence.

Undertake an employee audit – reach out to your team, ask them how you can help, do they require any assistance or support. Make them aware of any employee benefits that they might be entitled to.

Offer remote wellbeing for employees and family – This could be from an existing provider or an external source. I currently help businesses and charities with remote 1-2-1 coaching for their teams, guided meditation and a range of interactive activities which releases emotional, physical and mental stress and improves resilience.

How your team respond to remote working is entirely dependent on your ability to spot the individual triggers and understand their coping strategies.

If you would like some assistance or discuss how I can help you to develop your wellbeing or someone in your world that you know who requires support, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

Telephone 0114 327 2683 or email enquiries@mikelawrence.co.uk

Will Christmas be ‘YOUR’ Tipping Point!!

23rd December 2019

by Mike Lawrence corporate wellness companies Sheffield Corporate Wellness Programme mental health at work Sheffield Stress stress help Sheffield Stress Management stress management Sheffield stress relief Sheffield treat stress Sheffield workplace mental health Sheffield workplace wellbeing Sheffield

It’s Christmas! Time off work. Presents to buy. Drinking and eating more than you would regularly and visiting friends, family, loved ones. The season of goodwill, cheer and demanding work priorities go on the back burner in favour Christmas merriments.

Moreover, in our busy lives, that’s exactly what we need. What’s not to like?

Recently I delivered a couple of workshops for Westfield Health on Mental Health Awareness and Dealing with High-Pressure Situations in a company located in South Yorkshire.

When asked what’s the top source of pressure in your life at the moment is and if there’s one thing, that if changed, would significantly improve your quality of life.

The number one challenge was financial worries.

Research from Barclays determined that 46% of workers were worrying. Also, one in five were losing sleep, due to concerns about money.

Further research exposed that 42% of those asking for help with debt is on medication to help them cope with the emotional consequences.

Barclays also witnessed inadequate monetary wellbeing among workers decreased productivity by 4%. The overall cost to businesses in the UK is estimated to be £120 billion per annum.

Many employees feel embarrassed speaking about monetary concerns in the work environment. Especially if they’re suffering financial hardship, therefore employers can tend to view them as merely a private matter.

Nonetheless, there are indications that change is afoot.

Recent studies reveal that employees want to see companies do more around financial education. One survey indicated that 87% want their company to help with financial literacy.

Anglian Water and Barclays both have financial health and wellbeing programs. They both enhance levels of financial literacy and provide support when employees’ finances are out of alignment. Financial literacy is critical components in the organisations’ overall health and wellbeing strategy and an integral part of the employees’ benefits package.

Today, the reality in the UK is a considerable percentage of the population is living on the brink. One payday away from financial catastrophe.

Four in ten adults have no more than £500 in savings, while the Office of National Statistics (ONS), highlight 16.5 million people have no savings.

Many don’t have a safety net or reserves. Therefore, an unanticipated turn of events, like a severe illness or redundancy, could tip a considerable number of households into financial armageddon.

So precarious are people’s finances that the Bank of England calculate even a 2% increase in interest rates could be enough to tip some over the edge.

A typical household in the UK spends over £2,500 each month. Still, in the run-up to Christmas, our spending habits change dramatically to over £800 extra in December.

What is Your Tipping Point? defined by Merriam-Webster, as “The point at which a series of small changes or incidents becomes significant enough to cause a larger, more important change.”

At what point do you take personal responsibility and do something about it, primarily if it’s affecting your performance and wellbeing at work.

The tipping point for a business must be to engage their workforce and implement a health and wellbeing program that includes financial literacy.

Design a work culture that encourages health through all phases of their lives. Considering most people spend most of their life at work, it’s no wonder that they want to believe that the business cares about their happiness.

Emphasis on employee health and wellbeing contributes significantly to an employee’s entire interaction within the company.

Promoting health and wellbeing is no longer seen as a ‘tick box’ exercise or an initiative that produces ‘quick wins.’

Instead, wellbeing promotion assures that your team enjoy and want to work.

Long term, this has a drastic effect on the business’s performance.

Often health improves many areas of the business. Areas that not only improve productivity but make money.

If you’re considering implementing or adopting a health and wellbeing programme in 2020, please feel free to get in touch and book your free 40-minute consultation.

Telephone Sheffield 0114 327 2683 or email enquiries@mikelawrence.co.uk

Workplace Wellbeing – Mental Health At Work

26th October 2019

by Mike Lawrence corporate wellness companies Sheffield Corporate Wellness Programme Health and Wellbeing mental health at work Sheffield stress help Sheffield Stress Management stress management Sheffield stress relief Sheffield treat stress Sheffield Uncategorised wellbeing in the workplace Sheffield workplace mental health Sheffield workplace wellbeing Sheffield

How many times during a week have you found yourself saying, “I’m fine” to a colleague or friend when in fact you don’t really mean it?

I asked this question earlier this week to a group of employees during a 1-day Mental Health At Work Awareness training session that I was hosting near Sheffield.

The majority of delegates replied that it was common to say, “I’m fine” or “I’m OK”. It appears to be the default unconscious position, so as not to open the conversation further and bring attention to themselves.

A study of adults commissioned by the Mental Health Foundation found that on average adults will say “I’m fine” 14 times a week, though just 19% actually mean it.

While most of us may be happy openly discussing feelings, many of us are not being honest and sticking to a mental script.

This invents an illusion of support. Outwardly we’re habitually checking in with each other, but underneath that, many of us feel incapable of saying how we’re feeling.

Approximately 1 in 4 people in the UK will experience a mental health challenge in a year.

In England, 1 in 6 people reports encountering a common mental health problem (such as anxiety and depression) in any given week.

Worries about things like money, jobs, relationships, the recession and Brexit concern can make it harder for people to cope.

We all possess some form of mental health, and when it’s okay, we have a sense of purpose, motivation, drive and resilience.

Overall ability to cope with whatever challenges and hurdles that life and work throw up.

We all undergo tough times, we become apprehensive, agitated, angry and experience so many different feelings and emotions.

These feelings usually pass, but occasionally they develop into stress, depression or anxiety.

For some, this can be more challenging, and long-term conditions such as depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, paranoia and dissociation disorders, these can affect our ability to perform and engage at work at a consistently high level.

Health and Wellbeing is an issue that the NHS is struggling to cope with.

The Independent reported that people who are seeking help with mental health concerns are waiting in excess of eight weeks to see a GP again after their original appointment.

That’s why employees must recognise that good mental health and proper managerial training, processes and structures are pivotal, and there is growing evidence that organisations that implement health and wellbeing procedures are more productive.

In fact, implementing and addressing health and wellbeing concerns at work increases productivity by as much as 12%.

Thursday 10th October was World Mental Health Day. An opportunity for all of us to raise awareness of mental health issues and advocate against social stigma.

I read a book last year, ahead of speaking at the 4th International Conference on Depression, Anxiety and Stress Management, called Dying for a Paycheck written by Jeffrey Pfeffer.

The author makes clear that the environment we work in is just as important as the one where we live. There is a great quote below taken from the book, which sums up nicely for me the importance of workplace wellbeing.

Your supervisor is more important to your health than your family doctor –

Bob Chapman, CEO of Barry-Wehmiller.

If you think you’re suffering from stress, anxiety, depression or any form of mental health and you are finding it difficult to cope in your workplace, the first step is to talk to a colleague that you trust, your manager or an HR advisor.

Workplace wellbeing is at the top of many companies’ agendas as the impact of work-related stress, illness and mental health issues are better understood.

There are actions that we can all do individually to reduce our exposure to increased mental health within the workplace such as, have a proper lunch break and avoid eating your lunch at your desk, identify your ‘stressors’; are you continually working late in the office or taking work home to complete? How much exercise are you currently doing? What do you do outside of work leisure and social pursuits? And spend more time with family and friends.

I typically help SME’s whose employees are suffering from stress, anxiety and depression and are struggling to cope. If you’re considering raising awareness with your employees or you’d like to learn more about how you can reignite your life and regain your competitive advantage, please feel free to get in touch and book your FREE 40-minute consultation.

Telephone 0114 327 2683 or email enquiries@mikelawrence.co.uk

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Brits Spent up to a Quarter of their Annual Disposable Income on Holidays each Year

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Your supervisor is more important to your health than your family doctor –

Bob Chapman, CEO of Barry-Wehmiller.

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