October 10th was World Mental Health Day. It is estimated that 1 out of 4 persons who seek healthcare in Kenya have a mental health condition. This data is staggering.
Yet, employee mental wellness is vital. Our mental health affects our ability to be productive and lead a fulfilling life both in and outside our organisations.
To create a fast and accessible avenue for GDC staff to obtain assistance on matters of wellness, GDC has appointed wellness champions comprising staff drawn from different departments and regions.
“It is our duty as wellness champions to encourage our colleagues to practice habits that safeguard their mental and physical wellness at all times,” says Mr Ibrahim Oruma, the GDC Wellness Chairperson.
“Employee wellness refers to the physical, mental, and emotional health of employees both in and outside the workplace. This can be affected by relationships, communication, tasks expectations and the work environment,” Mr. Oruma, explains.
The team provides an avenue for staff to seek information and counsel on their wellness. Information sharing is one of the fundamental approaches towards mental wellness. “All we want is to build a functional family where everyone is valued and listened to. It helps to talk out issues. It helps to get someone who can listen,” says Mr. Oruma.
GDC has also partnered with its medical service providers to sensitize staff on the importance of their mental health. Staff are encouraged to seek professional help when faced with mental health challenges such as stress and mental illness.
“When our colleagues are well, it means they are mentally strong and physically astute to tackle the demands of their everyday assignments at GDC,” explained Mr. Oruma.
#WorldMentalHealthDay
