People struggling with their mental health at work are being urged to seek help instead of soldiering on in silence.

To mark World Mental Health Day on Thursday, October 10,  which, this year, is focusing on wellbeing in the workplace – Dorset HealthCare is reminding people of range of support available, online and in person, across the county.

Equally, anyone can provide vital support just by starting an informal conversation with their colleagues during the working day.

Morad Margoum, the trust’s interim service director for mental health and learning disabilities, said: “I encourage employers, managers, and colleagues to have regular check-ins and wellbeing conversations at work.

"The fact is, we dedicate much of our waking hours to work and poor psychological wellbeing can impact not only on our work performance, but on our experience of the world.

"Ironically, having these informal conversations and exploring solutions early is key to having better outcomes for all.

“Sometimes the challenges and stresses we face in our working lives can impact our mental health and affect our ability to cope without the right support.

"Taking interest in one another’s wellbeing can open important dialogue and help us recognise when someone isn’t coping."

Sometimes people continue to struggle with poor mental health, if you, or someone you know, is struggling to cope, there are a range of services open to provide support, depending on your need:

  • Steps2Wellbeing – a free, NHS mental wellbeing service that offers counselling, guided self-help and talking therapies for anyone feeling low, stressed or anxious. If you are registered with a GP in Dorset or the Southampton City area, you can refer yourself direct via www.steps2wellbeing.co.uk
  • Access Wellbeing – a drop-in service with offices in Weymouth where staff can offer mental health support and advice on a range of issues which can affect people’s wellbeing, from bereavement  to education, employment and financial matters. More information is available at www.dorsetaccesswellbeing.co.uk 
  • Access Mental Health – specialist support for anyone struggling to cope or nearing a breakdown. Help is available via Connection, a 24/7 helpline (0800 652 0190), or in person at The Retreat in Dorchester  or Community Front Rooms in Bridport, Shaftesbury, Wareham and Weymouth. Mental health professionals and peer support workers will be on hand and no appointment is required. Visit www.dorsethealthcare.nhs.uk/access-mental-health.

More information about all local mental health support services can be found at www.dorsethealthcare.nhs.uk/takeastep