Mental Health Awareness Week Reflection

As part of the firm’s recognition of Mental Health Awareness Week recently, Mental Health and Wellbeing Champion Julie Hedge sat down with Dervla Gallen from Mental Health at Work to discuss this year’s theme of anxiety.

Shoosmiths has worked with Mental Health at Work for a number of years and we are pleased to have developed this important relationship through this open and honest conversation. During the conversation, which is available for all colleagues to view, Julie and Dervla explored the importance of Mental Health Awareness Week; some common myths around anxiety; and also shared their own personal experiences of anxiety.

Julie said: “It was a pleasure to sit down with Dervla for an open conversation around mental health. Dervla has facilitated a number of workshops for the firm’s Mental Health and Wellbeing Champions and has increased our confidence as well as equipped us with the skills required to fulfil our roles.”

Dervla said: “Thanks again to Shoosmiths for inviting me to come on their podcast to talk about this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week theme – Anxiety and what you can do to prevent it from becoming an issue or illness. Anxiety is prevalent in the workplace and beyond, so this was a great opportunity for Mental Health at Work to collaborate with Shoosmiths to challenge stigma and raise awareness on such a crucial topic. It was a pleasure to spend time connecting with Julie, sharing personal stories, and seeing first-hand what an asset and inspiration she is to the Shoosmiths Champions Network. I’m already looking forward to working together again soon!” 

We are pleased to continue our support for Mental Health at Work by making a donation for this session and we very much look forward to exploring new ways to further our ongoing work together.

Beyond this session, the firm acknowledged the month through in-office awareness events and a national photography competition, as well as a firmwide calendar of daily wellbeing tips.