Prepare for World Mental Health Day: Is Your Team Ready for 2024?

Hello there!

Welcome back! I hope you’ve been enjoying September and finding moments to focus on your own wellbeing as we enter the final stretch of the year. With World Mental Health Day approaching on 10th October, it’s a great time to reflect on how we can all play a role in supporting mental health—not only for ourselves but for our teams.

As Mark Twain wisely said, "Worrying is like paying a debt you don’t owe." In a fast-paced world, we often carry unnecessary burdens, but by creating healthier workplaces, we can reduce that mental load and help our teams thrive.

In this issue, we’ll explore the latest trends in workplace mental health for 2024, share success stories from organisations like Hull University, Synetiq, and Bonhams Auctioneers, and provide practical steps you can take to boost mental health support in your business. Plus, I’m excited to share details about our upcoming Mental Health First Aid course on 26th–27th November.

Remember, mental health isn’t just for World Mental Health Day—it’s a year-round commitment to fostering happier, more resilient workplaces.

Let’s continue this journey together!

Wishing you all the best,

Mike

Burnout Epidemic: Why More Employees Are Hitting a Breaking Point

Burnout isn’t just personal—it’s a business crisis affecting companies across the UK in 2024. With 77% of employees reporting burnout due to increased workloads and blurred work-life boundaries, the impact on productivity and employee wellbeing is undeniable. Left unchecked, burnout can drain your team’s energy and push your top talent out the door. However, there are proven strategies to prevent burnout and build a resilient workforce.

Click here to learn how your business can prevent burnout and support your team’s wellbeing.

Quiet Quitting: Why It’s a Sign of Deeper Mental Health Struggles

In 2024, quiet quitting is quietly disrupting workplaces across the UK. Employees are physically present but disengaged, doing only the bare minimum. This isn’t about laziness—it’s often linked to mental health struggles, with employees feeling overwhelmed or unsupported. Addressing these hidden issues could be the key to re-energising your workforce and improving overall productivity. So, what are the warning signs, and how can your organisation tackle quiet quitting before it leads to full resignations?

Click here to discover practical steps to identify and prevent quiet quitting in your business.

The Rise of Mental Health Awareness: Is Your Company Prepared for 2024 Trends?

Mental health is no longer a side note in workplace conversations—it’s a priority in 2024. With new government regulations and rising employee expectations, companies that fail to address mental health risk losing talent and falling behind. From remote work mandates to the growing need for Mental Health First Aid training, businesses must be ready to support their teams in practical, meaningful ways. Is your organisation equipped to handle these changes?

Click here to explore the top mental health trends of 2024 and discover how your business can stay ahead.

Transform Workplace Stress into Success with Expert Mental Health Support!

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Mike Lawrence: Your Guide to Health & Wellbeing

I’m Mike Lawrence, a passionate advocate for mental health and wellbeing. After overcoming significant health challenges, including brain surgery, I’ve dedicated myself to a journey of self-improvement and helping others thrive. From heart-pounding skydives for charity to soul-enriching travels in Thailand, my experiences have shaped my approach to holistic health.

I love sharing the lessons I’ve learned from these adventures and from the powerful audiobooks I devour. Let’s explore the paths to better mental and physical health together. Embrace life’s adventures with enthusiasm and resilience, and remember—you’re never alone on this journey!

Feel free to reach out via email at [email protected] or connect with me on LinkedIn. For more in-depth insights and inspiring stories, read my latest blogs here. Together, let’s create a healthier, happier future!

What I'm Reading, Listening to, and Watching

I’m always seeking new ways to deepen my understanding of mental health and personal growth, and there’s no shortage of influential books, podcasts, and films. In this section, I’m sharing what’s recently caught my attention—content that has impacted how I think, work, and approach wellness. I hope these recommendations inspire new ideas and perspectives for your own journey.

📚 What I'm Reading

I’ve just picked up The Seat of the Soul by Gary Zukav, a book that delves into spirituality, purpose, and aligning with your true self. It’s been on my list for a while, and I’m excited to dive into its wisdom and reflect on how it applies to life and work.

🎧 What I'm Listening To

This time, it was an easy choice, as the world of soul and R&B recently lost one of its greats—Frankie Beverly of Maze. Naturally, the R&B stations are filled with tributes to his legendary music, and it’s been a nostalgic moment for me. I was fortunate to see Maze live at the Brixton Academy (now known as the O2 Academy) when I lived in London. One of my go-to stations, Magic, has been playing some of his classics, and it’s been a joy to relive those moments. I’m playing in the background as I write this section.

📺 What I'm Watching

Another tribute I’ve been revisiting is to the incredible James Earl Jones, the iconic voice of Darth Vader. I saw him perform live on the West End in London, where he starred in Cat on a Hot Tin Roof. The play had a stellar cast, including Adrian Lester, who later became known for his role in Hustle, Phylicia Rashad (best known as Clair Huxtable in The Cosby Show), and Debbie Allen from Fame. But it was James Earl Jones, as Big Daddy, who truly stole the show. His presence on stage was unforgettable.