Not that we needed more of a reason to be supportive of this super important week, but the theme for this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week is especially close to the hearts of us girls in the VN Recruitment office – nature!
Within the workday, we try our hardest to make a point of all going on a wander and getting out into nature at lunchtime. Of course we know lunchtimes can sometimes feel like a luxury, but they’re super important! Even if our four-legged office friend Mr Archie Buss doesn’t need a walk, it is important for us humans to get out and stretch our legs too. Breathe in the fresh air, walk on the grass, get some vitamin D… hopefully see some animals and wildlife when you’re out and about too (and sometimes ‘accidentally’ fall into a coffee shop).
This does extend into non-working days, too! Especially if you can venture further, now we can… the beach, woodlands, reservoirs, rivers, mountains… nature is waiting for you everywhere.
Nature doesn’t have to be your ‘thing’ or a real passion to enjoy it and reap the benefits. A ‘breath of fresh air’ can be genuinely that, a quick moment to yourself. Open the windows where you can, hear birdsong first thing in a morning with a coffee… it’s the little moments that add up.
We have always been strong advocates for better mental health support, both in the workplace and personally. We may be biased, but the veterinary industry has so many wonderful people in it who deserve better support. The pandemic has caused an effect to every part of our lives, possibly without even noticing. Our lovely candidates and clients have been working so hard to achieve their goals, both personally and professionally, and we know that can’t have been easy. There has been a lot of pressure on your shoulders and it’s ok to not be ok and take some time for yourself – whether that is in nature or not!
If you feel like your mental health is not being supported, it is super important to reach out to someone and to find the help that is needed. Help is not a sign of weakness – it’s a sign of strength and resilience, the determination to feel better. It’s a challenge to overcome.
If the little moments are not helping you and you feel like you need more help, there are tonnes of options out there. Here’s a few links for some guidance [Accessed: 13th May 2021]:
Mental Health Awareness Week 2021
Samaritans | Every life lost to suicide is a tragedy | Here to listen
Home | Mind, the mental health charity – help for mental health problems
We are always here, ready for a confidential, friendly chat if you are wanting a fresh start and go on to pastures new. There is no harm in revaluating your priorities and putting yourself first, in or out of the workplace.
All our love & support,
The VN Recruitment girls x
01904 471 400 / info@vnrecruitment.co.uk
