Having been diagnosed with bipolar disorder in my early twenties (ironically, something I now see as my superpower), I’m hugely passionate about reducing the stigma around mental health in the workplace, advocating for an open and honest working environment, and supporting my colleagues just as I’ve been supported.

Where would we be if we couldn’t be open about our struggles at work? Hiding behind a desk, unable to focus, feeling unsupported, and producing below-par work — all this only adding to the problem of feeling alone and less than.

Employees are people first and foremost, and they bring to work with them all their different issues, eccentricities, and life events — as well as their brilliance and unique talents. All of it should be recognised and supported, not only because those who are supported will be more engaged and productive at work but, most importantly, because it’s the right thing to do.

By the time I reached SoMo, my diagnosis was something I felt comfortable being open about. I know first-hand the impact of having a CEO and colleagues who understand, accept, and support me, and who don't feel sorry for me. Talking openly about my own struggles has led to countless peers opening up about their own issues, worries and anxieties. I’m not a therapist but it’s a privilege to listen and support.

•   What does the specialist finance industry need in 2023 and beyond?
•   Tackling mental health in the workplace through conversation
•   SoMo boosts sales and underwriting teams with four new hires

The alternative doesn’t bear thinking about. Being afraid of speaking up about struggles due to embarrassment or fear of being judged will only exacerbate them. These are the times when we need to be able to ask for help because if we don’t… Well, the figures speak for themselves.

There is no getting away from the incredibly high-pressure working environment of financial services and its impact on mental health and, in the current economic climate, I believe my colleagues and broker clients will be feeling more pressure and stress than ever before. We need to be able to say out loud we’re not okay and be listened to, without judgement.

Here at SoMo, there’s a big focus on wellbeing, and we have initiatives like weekly meditation in place. We offer a confidential and independent counselling service, so if an individual doesn’t feel comfortable talking to a senior manager, they can go directly to this service and get the help they need.

The sector as a whole must work towards ensuring that teams have the opportunity and paths to find and seek help, should they wish to do so. Mental health courses and referral services should be a standard practice for companies. We need to help employees and colleagues find the line between work and home and manage workloads for people who may be struggling.

The main thing we must do, however, is empower people to have the courage to speak up if they’re struggling. This will be easier if senior managers can help change the perception and narrative of mental health by talking openly and bravely about their own highs and lows, their struggles and success stories.

From personal experience, I’ve found it has a domino effect for good.