Developing capacity to deal with the challenges of life at work and in personal lives. Facilitator : Richard Wakerell Mental Health Training Manager, Plymouth & District Mind
Introduction The journey can be pleasant at times. We may feel in control. At other times the journey may not be so easy. If everything is falling apart, we may wonder if we will survive the experience
The challenge around work For people in work – few ‘jobs for life’, short term contracts, zero hour contracts. For people in work – change! Huge demands – unable to switch off, sleepless nights. For people out of work – the difficulty of getting back into work. Young people – may find it hard even to get into work. People with disabilities or histories of mental illness – despite protection from legislation, find it hard to get work.
The vision compared to reality Supermen and superwomen are fiction. To be human involves facing doubts, dealing with conflicting emotions in tough times. Resilience is a complex issue. Some people are more naturally resilient. Others can learn!
What is resilience? The capacity to cope with or adapt to stressful situations or crises without long term difficulty. Resilience involves facing challenge even when it feels easier to give up. It involves emerging stronger and wiser from adversity. Resilient people are.. ‘..like bamboo in a hurricane – they bend rather than break.’
What is stress? Stress is ‘the adverse reaction people have to excessive pressure or other types of demand placed on them.’ (Health and Safety Executive) Pressure is part and parcel of all work. It helps keep us motivated. When that pressure exceeds our ability to cope, it becomes a negative rather than a positive force – in other words, stress. There is no such thing as ‘good stress’. Stress is not a medical condition, but research shows that prolonged exposure to stress is linked to debilitating conditions such as anxiety and depression.
What happens when we are stressed Our bodies react two ways 1. The rush of hormones that elevate heart rate, boost blood pressure and stop digestion. 2. The symptoms we experience such as clenched teeth, headaches and emotional upset.
Traits of a lack of resilience Denial Working long hours Problems with forgiveness/letting go of the past Alcohol used as a prop Illegal drugs – seeking release Legal highs
Traits of emotionally resilient people They invest in relationships They address the past and face the most painful chapters of their lives They accept failure Their identity is formed by various interests They practice forgiveness/they can let go and move on They have a sense of purpose.
Resilient people practice......the five steps to Mental Wellbeing 1. Connect 2. Learn 3. Active 4. Notice 5. Give
Final challenge Develop your personal WRAP (Wellness Recovery Action Plan) 1. My daily maintenance plan. 2. My wellness toolbox 3. Anticipate difficulties 4. The early warning signs
Finally Thank you for your contribution. Any final questions or comments? Richard Wakerell, Mental Health Training Manager Plymouth and District Mind. Telephone:
Appendix 1 - Training Plymouth and District Mind deliver the following training courses: Building Resilience (1.5 hour seminar) Developing Resilience (one day for managers to support staff) Promoting Wellbeing in the Workplace (one day course) Young People’s Mental Health; Understanding Eating Disorders & Self-Harm – (one day course) Mental Health First Aid Standard (two day) and Lite (3 hour) Mental Health Awareness (one day)
Appendix 2 Plymouth and District Mind Recovery College delivers a wide range of courses including: Developing Self Esteem and Assertiveness Exploring Self Care and Compassion Mindfulness Understanding your Anger – levels 1 and 2 Your Road to Recovery For further details of all our training please visits our website