Usdaw takes both the physical and mental wellbeing of its members very seriously. With mental health problems on the rise, lots of our reps and officials are supporting members with anxiety, depression and other mental health conditions.
Our campaign materials have the theme 'It's Good To Talk' and are designed to help open up conversations and reduce the stigma of talking about mental health.
Day of Action on Mental Health
Every year, Usdaw organises a co-ordinated Day of Action on Mental Health on 10 October to mark World Mental Health Day. Find out more.
No matter how big or small the action, we encourage conversations and the breaking down of the stigma around mental health at work.
Get Involved
Although we organise a Day of Action on 10 October, our campaigning isn't limited to one day a year. There are many ways to get involved whenever you are able.
Survey - We want to find out more about the experiences of members living with a mental health problem so that we can identify what support they need at work.
Noticeboard - Theme your workplace noticeboard with materials about mental health.
Social - Share our message on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram
Join – Ask any non-members who engage with the campaign to Join Usdaw.
Want to learn more about mental health?
Our Online Learning Gateway contains links to providers that offer courses, learning, and support on health and wellbeing.
Our Looking After Your Mental Health course has been developed to help reps and members look after their mental health during these difficult and challenging times, and aims to give a greater understanding of some common mental health conditions and experiences.
You can also take our Mind Your Head course, which can help you recognise feelings and reactions in yourself and potentially in others, and what we can do to promote better mental health.
Additional Resources
How this helps you
For too long mental health has been a taboo subject and individuals were often, and unfairly, blamed for their condition. The shame and secrecy around mental health can have devastating consequences. Usdaw wants to change that while accepting that it is a complex and sensitive area.
Members with mental health problems may well have rights to additional support at work under the Equality Act – but these rights are often poorly understood by managers leading to members not getting the support they need.
If you're struggling with your mental health, your rep will be able to provide advice and support. We also have a wealth of materials available within this area of the website.
