One in four people in the world will be affected by mental or neurological disorders at some point in their lives. World Health Organisation (WHO).
The WHO estimates that around 450 million people currently suffer from such conditions, placing mental disorders among the leading causes of ill-health and disability worldwide, costing the global economy $1 trillion in lost productivity each year.
This month (Oct) the spotlight is shining on this issue with Wednesday 10th being World Mental Health Day.
Kindness to yourself and others is a consistent part of iAM Values across all cultures. Yet, how many of us actually focus upon it and actively give kindness to ourselves and remember to help others?
In her research, Christin Porath highlights the importance of how we treat each other at work, ‘‘insensitive interactions have a way of whittling away at people’s health, performance and souls…immune systems can pay a price”. Whereas her research shows that kindness at work has a powerful and positive impact:
- ”The more the individual was perceived as civil by others in his or her network, the better his or her performance.”
- ”Employees who say they have more supportive supervisors are 1.3 times as likely to stay with the organization.”
- ”People who said leaders treated them with respect were 55% more engaged.”
As humans we are programmed for kindness. Darwin identified kindness as the strongest and most valuable instinct for man, the one that makes survival possible for humanity as a species. Many other scientists nowadays argue that our brains are hardwired for kindness, telling us that when we are compassionate and kind it releases the powerful feel good neurochemical oxytocin, generating a whole load of positive emotions.
This is about being kind to ourselves (make sure your oxygen mask is secure first), as well as those around us.
Here are our top tips for looking after your wellbeing and having a positive impact on the wellbeing of those around you, a little can go a long way;
Be positive about you.
- Tell yourself how great you are – like you do to those who are close to.
- If you haven’t worked with us, create your list of positive beliefs by asking yourself:
- What’s great about being me?
- What do I love about me?
- Keep your power and manage your emotional response – don’t let small irritants spoil your mood, day or interaction with others.
- Take responsibility to create a positive environment around you.
- Use your iAM Values to maintain the right balance in your life for your well being.
- Be kind. Watch for judging people.
- Stop making it about you and take a moment to listen and make it about others.
- Show people that you like them – engage, listen, smile, show others that you see the spirit and potential and real person in them.
- Aim to have a positive impact. Be warm and informal – the same person at work as at home. Don’t conform to a leadership and business ‘role’.