Tools to support mental wellbeing

Wellbeing at work is created in day-to-day life. That’s why everyday things that may seem small can have a big effect on wellbeing. The Mental Health Support Toolkit developed by the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health is a website offering free tools and material for  use at the workplace.

For example, with the Wellbeing at work test (in Finnish) everybody can test their own mental wellbeing status. The test is based on research data and gives a snapshot of your personal wellbeing at work, and if necessary suggests actions you can take. It is designed for independent use, but the work community can agree to use it together, for example on a wellbeing at work day.

“It takes about five minutes to do the test. Then the tool offers advice and hints adapted to your particular situation – whether it’s grasping opportunities or maintaining a good level. We’ve had a lot of good feedback on it”, says Telma Rivinoja, specialist at the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health.

Rivinoja recommends taking the test as a self-analysis tool.

“The test results can help you to put your own feelings into words, and you can use it for example as a basis in discussions with your supervisor or occupational health service”, she says.

For shop stewards she recommends taking a look at the Recovery Calculator (in English) to assess the environment at your workplace from a recovery perspective, as well as for example the Substance Abuse Programme Tool (in English), which helps your organisation to draft a substance abuse programme that’s right for your organisation.

Rivinoja points out, however, that the wellbeing at work test and the other tools are means to open up a more important shared discussion at the workplace. It’s best to discuss any coping challenges you may have and suggestions for improvements with your supervisor in the workplace.

“It’s important for employees to remember that employers are responsible for ensuring that work doesn’t damage anyone’s health, safety or wellbeing. If, however, you face challenges with your wellbeing at work, it’s up to all of us to raise these in discussions at the workplace so that solutions can be found”, she says.

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