World Mental Health Day

By Dan Meyers, Chief Human Resources Officer, Acronis

Today is World Mental Health Day and it’s an important reminder to pause and think about our physical and mental health and well-being.  As the world returns to a new normal, recovering from extended periods of isolation and prolonged periods of remote working post-pandemic, we have an opportunity to seriously consider our mental well-being and prioritize our mental health. Taking care of our mental health involves more than just the absence of illness; it’s about sustaining good mental health to enable one to cope with challenges and thrive in life. 

The World Health Organization is encouraging all organizations throughout the world to transform the environments that influence mental health such as the workplace.  At Acronis, we recognize the importance of mental health and well-being. An important part of staff well-being is the work environment being a place of engagement and connection.

Acronis encourages connection through new initiatives, such as the #CyberWomen regional chapters.  These regional support groups have been created to help women to network.

Another important initiative introduced this year is Acronis Day. Acronis Day is an official no-work day where all employees are encouraged to take the day off, with no emails, calls or Zoom. This is an opportunity for all staff to recharge as a measure to support wellbeing. 

We recognize the stress caused by pandemic isolation and current world events, and as such, continue to remind our employees of the Employment Assistance Program (EAP), a global resource available to them and their eligible family members. EAP is a confidential service, provided by an independent organization called Workplace Options, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in 27 languages. Access to EAP offers guidance and support for any work, personal or related family-related challenges our employees may be facing. 

Helpful strategies to support mental and physical well-being: Mental health influences our well-being. Being healthy enables us to enjoy our lives, develop good relationships, feel good about ourselves, and deal with stress. Having positive habits is a great way to achieve that. Here are some of the recommendations from Mental Health America:

·       Make the right food choices. The quality of food has a direct impact on your physical and mental health.

·       Exercise. Staying active each day improves self-esteem, brain function and your ability to sleep, and has been found to lessen stress.

·       Sleep. It plays an important role in your moods, ability to learn and make memories, and improves your immune system. It also helps the body re-energize its cells and clear out toxins.

·       Manage your stress. While dealing with stress is a normal part of life, finding ways to relieve stress is critically important for your well-being.

·       Build a social support system. Find people you can connect with. Consider community service or volunteering. Focus on quality relationships.

We hope that on World Mental Health Day you will take the opportunity to consider ways to support and protect your mental health and well-being.  Remember, it is often about small changes that collectively support our well-being … so take the time to catch up with friends, spend time in nature or get an early night’s sleep.