From Surviving to Thriving on World Mental Health Awareness Month at HCCB

Life is full of experiences, good and bad, and one’s mental health is crucial in navigating them all. In a world that's increasingly recognising the importance of mental health, we at HCCB actively champion its integration into our core values. Now, more than ever, in the midst of World Mental Health Month, we amplify our ongoing commitment to the cause, promoting awareness, understanding, and well-being for all.

In alignment with this year's theme, "Mental health is a universal human right", we’re taking an active role in fostering better mental health practices in the workplace. Our journey at HCCB is guided by initiatives focused on providing support to employees, ensuring they have the resources to weather both personal and professional challenges with resilience. 

Why #MentalHealthMatters at HCCB

In the hustle and bustle of life, we tend to normalise stress and overlook its damaging consequences. Our ongoing efforts towards empowering mental health awareness and advocacy encourage our employees to assess their mental well-being and tackle challenges head-on.

Upholding mental health advocacy

We foster a culture that encourages open and honest conversations surrounding mental health. Adopting a proactive approach, we believe that addressing challenges and seeking help is essential in helping turn our struggles into strengths. In line with this sentiment, we've collaborated with Silver Oak Health to introduce our Employee Assistance Program (EAP). This comprehensive initiative provides a confidential counselling network to support our employees with personal and professional concerns.

What does the EAP entail?

EAP is a tailored initiative offering a broad spectrum of support services. It provides solutions for work-related dilemmas, team dynamics, mood fluctuations, trauma, abuse, addiction, and severe crisis situations. We have a pool of skilled counsellors who are available around the clock to guide and support anyone in need. Further, our holistic 'Wellness & Beyond' services encompass Diet & Nutrition Counselling, Work-Life services, and Legal & Financial Counselling. Available through an app on mobile devices and on web portals the EAP neatly aligns with our priority to promote mental health awareness discussions at HCCB.

Navigating stress with the Stress Control Assistance Program

Stress is an inevitable part of life, especially in the fast-paced world we live in. But it's how we respond to stress that can make a world of difference. In recognition of World Mental Health Awareness Month this October, we launched a stress-management initiative, called the Stress Control Assistance Program. As an integral part of our ongoing Employee Assistance Program (EAP), this 8-week course is designed to provide our employees with the knowledge and tools for handling stress effectively.

Drawing inspiration from the principles laid down by Dr. Jim White, a recognised expert in stress management and cognitive behavioural therapy, the course follows a well-defined, guided approach to stress management. By participating in this program, employees can find the support they need on their path towards improved well-being and a more balanced lifestyle.

In addition to this, we also incorporate light yoga practices into our EAP to encourage our associates to experience mental calmness, reduced stress, and a balanced mind through a combination of physical poses, breathwork, and meditation.

Towards mental well-being and unity

As we observe World Mental Health Month, we continue to nurture an environment of openness and support. Each step we take, every conversation we facilitate, is a stride towards eliminating the stigma associated with mental health. As a collective we emphasise the importance of mental health, advocating it as a chance for self-reflection and self-assessment. In this concerted effort, we assure that no individual's journey towards wellness is ever walked alone.