Do our colleagues, friends, and family know we’re there to support them? Do we all feel comfortable talking about mental health? How can we help each other right now? And how can we look after ourselves?

During the current pandemic, sometimes a simple “how are you?” can become a heavy question to be presented with.⁣ Checking up on each other is so important right now, but it can definitely feel like an overwhelming conversation to have.

That’s why we spent Wednesday 13th May chatting to Ian Tomlinson, a Mental Health First Aid Trainer from LIVES – the Lincolnshire charity that supports 700+ highly trained and dedicated volunteers who deliver vital care in those first critical moments.

Ian came to us a few months ago to deliver a mental health awareness half-day course to a handful of volunteers from the oe:gen team, and led such a positive, thoughtful, and engaging conversation about improving mental health in the workplace.

We came away feeling like we’d gained more tools to work towards removing the stigma around mental health, promote more open conversations at work, and do our bit to create a society where everyone can thrive.

This Webinar focused on having those conversations about mental health, spreading awareness, and providing tips and resources for looking after yourself and others during the pandemic – touching on balancing work and home life.

With a live Q&A chatbox, attendees asked Ian any questions they had throughout the webinar, which he answers towards the end. 

To receive the free list of resources signposted by LIVES that we mention in the webinar, simply pop your email in the form here.