Notes

We are under more pressure recently than ever before in human history; including times of war, famine and the very real need for survival. Even though our lives are seemingly easier than being chased by a saber-toothed tiger, the reason for this is simple; we place ourselves in this position because we firmly believe that society has expectations of us.

As a result of the pressure of people expecting us to earn a certain amount, look a specific way, behave in a certain manner, own all of the new gadgets and tech, marry the perfect man or woman we actually fall into a behavioural pattern which we believe is the normal thing to do, so, therefore, believe it of others. Thinking in this manner actually forces that expectation to become a reality and perpetuate it.

The result, however, is that our mental health, and as a direct response to our physical health, is declining from all of the pressure to be a certain way. This in spite of the fact there is no actual 'certain way', aside from our own perceptions of how we believe we should be.

For example, when we were at school if you can remember that far back, I know I can't. Most if not all wanted the dream job, the big house, and sporty car. Nobody ever dreamed of a bus pass and waking 3 times a night in a cold sweat because of a looming deadline. At least I hope nobody wanted that! And it is this unrealistic view of what life should be in contrast to what it actually is that could start us on the path to ill mental health.

Despite huge moves forward in medical care and the stigma of having a 'mental health disease' as it used to be unhelpfully termed, people with a mental health issue, be it minor or fairly substantial are being left behind. Treated like social and economic pariahs. And that is exactly what we will try and improve today.

Here's a small insight to the workplace as of this year.

A 2018 study found that more than 90% of respondents had experienced stress in their role, with 26% of those experiencing severe/extreme levels of stress.

More than 38% of respondents stated that they experienced a mental health problem in the last month (either formally or informally diagnosed). This is an increase of 13% over 2017 figures.

If a mental ill health issue remains unchecked and untreated, symptoms worsen to a point where something has to break.