Our team share their tips for maintaining good mental health and managing stress
Whether we work at home, in an office, for someone else, for ourselves, or not at all, at some point in our lives we will all experience periods of stress – and that’s ok. Speaking up, taking charge of the situation, taking some time for ourselves or even just talking to a friend or family member can all help to reduce stress levels – or at least help us feel less alone during some of life’s more difficult periods. To mark World Mental Health Day on 10 October and ahead of November’s International Stress Awareness Week, some of our team at Barclaycard Payments talk about their own experiences, and share some of their most valuable ways to help maintain good mental health.
Katy Stevens, Relationship Management Executive, Barclaycard Payments
What does good mental health mean to you?
Good mental health to me means that I am content with positivity in my thoughts, feelings and actions. It’s clear to me that everyone has a different way of achieving their own good mental health. A quote I love is, “Sometimes the people around you won’t understand your journey. They don’t need to, it’s not for them”.
How do you protect your own mental health at work?
I make sure that I plan and organise my day, although this does mean I am always adding things to my list! But, at the same time, I can always take off things off my list. Having a positive attitude whilst working from home has been hard to achieve every day when I don’t have other colleagues’ positivity to pick up on. However, I do make sure that I still have those non-work conversations with my colleagues – it’s so important! I also make sure that I still take my breaks and get away from my desk. Getting that downtime is important to give me a clear head when I return to my computer. This really gives me a boost to finish the day on a high after taking my dogs for a walk and not thinking about work.
Do you have any tips for managing stress?
My major stress relief comes from my animals, particularly my two dogs Tilly and Ruby. I am very lucky to be able to walk out of my house to a local wood to take the dogs for a muddy stroll on my lunch. When I finish work, I also then am able to go out for a horse ride which allows me to completely unwind. My mind focuses on my route and what I am trying to achieve with the horses. I also love this quote by Andrew Carnegie: “If you want to be happy, set a goal that commands your thoughts, liberates your energy, and inspires your hopes”.
How do you protect your own mental health in your personal life?
As well as spending time with my animals, I love to swim. I have always focused on my swimming from a very young age. Being able to compete at a high level has definitely allowed me to nurture a positive mindset and lifestyle. If I feel stressed, I make lists, just like when I’m working, to relieve pressure on my brain. I am a very logical thinker and I actually take myself off somewhere quiet and think about why something is stressing me out. Once I have done this, I tend to see things more clearly and I always feel better.
What is the best way to support someone going through a difficult period?
Listening. Being able to bounce thoughts and feelings off someone else always helps me. If someone offers to sit and have a talk (it doesn’t always have to be about the thing that is stressing me out), it usually allows me to discuss a different subject and move my mind into a more positive mood.
Cyle Hunter-Ogungbo, Relationship Management, Barclaycard Payments
What does good mental health mean to you?
Good mental health means being in a balanced state of mind. Being able to overcome stressful situations and not let them take charge of you. Being able to effectively break down negative situations and realize that there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
How do you protect your own mental health at work?
Creating a good environment whilst working is important – sometimes even just a change of scenery can help. Organising your tasks in order of importance and aiming to set realistic deadlines are also important, as well as taking regular breaks. I find that maintaining positive relationships at work is the best thing I can do to protect my own mental health at work.
Do you have any tips for managing stress?
Planning and organisation go a long way towards helping me manage stress, but sometimes I like to go deeper. I find that meditation and respiratory techniques are great if you are feeling overwhelmed. Implement breaks and make an effort to spot/beware of the signs of excessive stress. I do everything I can to ensure a positive environment and good working relationships. Remember, it’s ok to ask others for help or communicate your issues when you are feeling stressed!
How do you protect your own mental health in your personal life?
I make time for physical exercise, enjoy time with friends and family and am sure to take holidays and time to relax when I need it. Meditation and listening to music work for me. My top tip is not to overcommit and know that it is okay to say no sometimes. Stress is something that can affect everybody regardless of age, religion, gender or social status. Lockdown has increased the number of people being affected and many are still readjusting. More awareness and normalisation are important – it’s great to see our business making positive contributions to encourage communication on this subject.
What is the best way to support someone going through a difficult period?
I find being open-minded and ready to listen really helps, giving motivation and reassurance, respecting feelings and being patient, and promoting professional help.
Clare Coates, Head of Strategy & Planning, International Corporate, Barclaycard Payments
What does good mental health mean to you?
Feeling positive and comfortable in myself.
How do you protect your own mental health at work?
It can be difficult, I try to keep things in perspective, stay organised, and remember to take breaks during the day to clear my mind. I recently made a conscious decision to not just answer with ‘I’m fine’ and be honest if I am struggling.
Do you have any tips for managing stress?
Talking to people helps - friends and colleagues can be great sounding boards. I enjoy walking and running and have made a conscious effort over the last 18 months to get outside during the day for some fresh air.
How do you protect your own mental health in your personal life?
I reflect on what makes me happy and ensure I make time for this, whether that means weekend trips, reading, exercise, or time with friends. I spend time with the people who are important to me and try to keep away from negative energy.
What is the best way to support someone going through a difficult period?
Listen. Don’t assume you know what’s best, everyone’s journey is different. Don’t underestimate how much you can support someone just by letting them know you are there for them. The quote I heard that summed up the pandemic for me was, “We may all be in the same storm but we are all in different boats”. Make time to really ask your friends and colleagues how they are and listen out for signs someone is struggling.
Steve Lappin, MD, International Corporate, Barclaycard Payments
What does good mental health mean to you?
To me, good mental health is being ‘in flow’ - feeling good, calm and able to perform at your best both in life and at work.
How do you protect your own mental health at work?
I take regular breaks and walks (while working from home). I think it’s important to try to spend time with people who give me energy rather than those that sap it. Finally, remember the things that matter and maintain perspective, reading, relaxing and making time just for my family.
Do you have any tips for managing stress?
Remember, it’s only work. Make sure you make time for yourself, as well as the people who give you energy outside work and your hobbies. Get out and enjoy nature – in the countryside, to lakes, the seaside – whatever floats your boat! I find using a meditation app is a great way of making sure you focus on your mental health at least once daily.
How do you protect your own mental health in your personal life?
As well as prioritising my family, I make sure to find time for me – even when time is scarce. That’s what my Manchester United FC season ticket is for!
What is the best way to support someone going through a difficult period?
Whatever feels helpful and meaningful to them – everyone has their own ways and circumstances. Always put the individual first over work priorities. Take time to understand their context and provide any support with care and sensitivity.
It’s important we should all take a little time to focus on being happy and healthy inside and outside of work. Even just taking a few small steps can help.