Why you should talk about your anxiety at work | Adam Whybrew
Jul 29, 2024
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In a candid conversation, Adam Whybrew, a depression truth-teller and mental health advocate, shares his personal journey with anxiety and depression. He emphasizes the surprising benefits of discussing mental health openly at work, creating safer environments for vulnerability. Adam highlights a pivotal moment that changed his perspective on workplace support. He also discusses the importance of fostering community and institutional initiatives for mental well-being, encouraging everyone to advocate for better conversation about these critical issues.
Recognizing and validating feelings of stress fosters empathy and support, enhancing communication within organizational cultures.
Discussing personal mental health experiences creates connections among colleagues, leading to normalized conversations and a supportive work environment.
Deep dives
The Impact of Acknowledging Feelings
It is crucial to recognize and validate the feelings of those experiencing stress instead of offering reassurances like 'it's going to be fine.' This approach allows individuals to process their emotions rather than suppress them, which can lead to harmful long-term effects. Understanding that acknowledging distress can be more beneficial fosters an environment of empathy and support. For those in leadership roles, this recognition can create a culture of openness that enhances communication and relationships within organizations.
Personal Experience with Vulnerability
Sharing personal experiences with mental health challenges can significantly impact workplace dynamics. The speaker recounts how discussing his struggles with anxiety and depression helped not only his recovery but also created connections with colleagues. By initially communicating his story to individuals who seemed to be struggling, he was able to normalize conversations about mental health. This led to wider discussions, with many colleagues expressing relief and sharing their own experiences, highlighting the importance of openness in the workplace.
Advocating for Institutional Change
While personal advocacy is valuable, there is a necessity for institutional support in promoting mental health. Creating structured environments where employees can share their experiences without pressure enhances community bonds and encourages vulnerability. Initiatives, such as the CBS Matters program, demonstrate how organizations can facilitate safe spaces for open dialogue. These measures not only encourage individuals to express themselves but also promote a culture of understanding and support that is essential for well-being in the workplace.
We can't get rid of anxiety and depression, so we might as well talk about it, says depression truth-teller Adam Whybrew. Sharing his own experience with mental illness, he reveals the surprising benefits of opening up about stress at work — and why being vulnerable creates a safe space for everyone. After the talk, Modupe discusses why we all need to advocate for important causes on an institutional level — and how to start.