Sad People
Sadness can damage self esteem, motivation, relationships and health. At such times, its vital to talk - but that's often the last thing you want to do.Listening, understanding and supporting
Absentee rates, a round of redundancies or a critical public response to a public project can badly affect staff morale. It is a sensitive issue, but it is important to recognise when people are sad and to try and get to the root of it.Sad people need an opportunity to say what they think, in an atmosphere of openness and support. Sadness is often a reaction to a situation - real or perceived - that has left an individual feeling angry or helpless.
It is only by listening and understanding that the communicator can take on board the concerns of the audience and endeavour to turn the situation around.
Tackling health prejudice
Statistics say that 1 in 3 experience mental health problems, but prejudice still exisits towards those brave enough to admit it. Unfortunately, there are many in society that still associate mental illness with madness that can only be cured by a lie-down on the pychiatrists couch or a ride in the 'yellow van'.
Whilst there is growing recognition and responsibility amongst many organisations towards the issue of mental health, there are many that remain trapped in their workplace, their homes and in themselves, without access to the support they need.
A shift in attitudes is required that views mental illness in the same way as a broken arm, migraine or the flu.