Mental Health Awareness Week

This week, in acknowledgment of Mental Health Awareness Week, we are taking a moment to reflect on the importance of mental well-being within our business. We aim to emphasise the significance of nurturing positive mental health and understanding the various paths individuals navigate in this journey.

Many of our colleagues have gracefully navigated their mental health paths, achieving personal milestones while overcoming challenges. Whether through adopting coping strategies, or engaging in activities that promote mental wellness, we remain dedicated to building a workplace culture that prioritises mental well-being.

We strive to make conversations about mental health commonplace, creating an environment where everyone feels understood, supported, and empowered. We encourage anyone looking for support to reach out and speak to someone, or get in touch with organisations such as Mind, Rethink Mental Illness and YoungMinds that are experts on this essential topic. #MentalHealthMatters #MindMatters #MentalWellness

Chris Chambers, Country House Sales Manager

“I became a Samaritan as I love helping people. I want to give something back to life, to help as many people as I can feel good about themselves. Even helping one human being, will make a difference.

As a listening volunteer for the past two and a half years, I've found immense fulfilment in providing non-judgmental, compassionate listening to callers. Our training is intensive, and ongoing yearly sessions help us continually develop our skills.

We commit to one three-hour shift per week and one four-hour night shift per month, always ensuring there are two volunteers available in case of emergencies. The Samaritans' phone lines are open 24/7, offering support to anyone facing struggles such as loneliness, depression, suicidal thoughts, or mental health challenges.

With 200 branches nationwide and over 20,000 trained volunteers, the Samaritans provide vital support across the country. The organisation is well-run, with dedicated directors, deputies, and shift leaders in each branch. I'm currently undergoing training to become a shift leader myself, eager to contribute even more to our mission. Remember, if you're struggling, you're never alone. Reach out to the Samaritans at 116 123 to speak with a compassionate, trained volunteer who's here to listen and support you without judgment.”

Annabelle Youngman, Sales Administrator

“At 19, I grappled with severe anxiety and panic disorder, turning what should have been a milestone year into one of adversity. Despite this, my determination remained steadfast, propelling me forward as the motivated individual I am. Confined to my home for months, I decided to start an Instagram account, not only as a personal outlet but also as a platform to aid others facing similar struggles. I wanted to show that mental health matters.

Through sharing my mental health journey, I aimed to shatter the stigma surrounding it and offer solidarity to those feeling alone, and encouraged openness to talk about taking medication.

I found that the more people educated themselves on mental health and the more people spoke about it, the more people would speak out about their own struggles. I was helping people I didn’t even know, and soon become someone that people would open up to.

Starting this felt like one of my biggest accomplishments. Not only did the account help me, but it helped others and shows just how important it is for people to not feel ashamed to seek help.

Talk to a family member, a friend, a doctor or a colleague, just make sure to speak out and talk to people, because you’ll soon realise the more people to talk to about it, the more you realise that you’re not alone. We find strength in unity.”

Tanya Hasking, Head of Lettings

“As people operating in an exciting industry with the buzz of sales, managing our mental health is incredibly important. We ride the highs and lows of the market and the day to day, and that is just at work! I consider the mental health and wellbeing of those around me to be of paramount importance and always try to tune in to understand how they are truly feeling. One of my favourite phrases is 'what can I do to help you?' And I find that by using this regularly with those around me people open up and feel comfortable to speak freely about their feelings.

It is also important to recognise life outside work, which at times can throw us some curve balls. Supporting one another through these times builds a culture of trust and understanding which I love about the John D Wood & Co. family – during my time in the business I have always felt that I was treated like a person first, and an employee second.

Personally, I find my peace in mediation, yoga, exercise and spending time with friends and family, but everyone is different, and creating a space with those around you to talk about what they 'need' to support their mental health is something important to me. Whilst looking after those around you, it is vital to remember that you must first look after yourself – the good old reference to 'put your oxygen mask on first, so that you can help others' is a great tool, and one that I use to remind myself of the daily importance of taking care of my mental health.”

Mental Health Awareness Week

Chris Chambers, Country House Sales Manager

Annabelle Youngman, Sales Administrator

Tanya Hasking, Head of Lettings

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