Mental Health Awareness

More than ever, at Expro, we are looking out for our people’s physical and mental wellbeing.

Jacqueline Richmond, Group HR Manager, discusses the importance of mental health and supporting our people.

We all have mental health and it’s important to look after it just as we would our physical health. It covers a spectrum of moods and experiences and all of us go through periods of experiencing poor mental health, such as anxiety or stress. And, of course, the current Covid-19 situation adds another dimension to our usual life issues.

Understandably, many people find it difficult to talk about mental health problems. It can seem too personal or complex, or because there seems to be a stigma associated with mental ill health, often due to a lack of understanding. Whilst this is changing, it is important that we keep moving forward.

Therefore, we are joining others to promote mental health awareness week to raise awareness and enhance knowledge of the importance of good mental health.

Mental health is a key focus for us at Expro. We feel it is important to provide a variety of tools and guidance for people to choose their own paths on what works best for them. And I feel our mind matters campaign does just that. Through a coordinated programme of communications around key mental health themes, supported by information, resources, and locally appropriate activities and initiatives.

Following the creation of our Employee Wellbeing Hub in 2019, we then introduced an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), covering a wide range of subjects including parenting, stress, finance and much more. It is delivered across multiple channels and languages and provides access to individuals to confidential counselling resources. Through the EAP employees and their families also have access to specific information and support relating to Covid-19.

In addition seminars, professional talks, sharing mindfulness tools, yoga sessions, book swaps, walking and other exercise groups are just a small number of support initiatives that have been introduced across our various locations often through the suggestion and participation of our employees.

While we can’t replace the value of face-to-face interactions, communication brings people together and at a time like this it is important we support one another and stay connected. We have increased communications globally, locally and personally to share stories and make sure the right information is there for those who need it.

Kindness plays a role in our day-to-day lives more so than ever right now, and it is an important theme for mental health awareness week. I know that my colleagues, individuals, family and others are coming together to support one another, where they can, during this difficult time. How do I know this? Because embracing teamwork is embedded in our culture across Expro as is working in partnership with others.

As we transition and try to adjust to the “new normal” of living and working, we will all have concerns and potentially complex personal situations to manage, and supporting employees to maintain positive mental health will remain a focus for Expro.