Navigating Mental Wellbeing: OMMH Team Shares Their Insights
As Mental Health Awareness Week 2024 draws near, it’s a good time to think about how we take care of our mental well-being, especially in areas of offshore work where the pressure can be high. In our last blog on this topic, Minding Your Mind, we talked about the unique challenges faced by offshore workers and why it’s so important to talk openly about mental health. We shared some practical tips tailored to support people in the offshore marine industry. Today, we’re continuing the conversation by asking our colleagues at Offshore Marine Management Holdings (OMMH) to share their personal tips for self-care that help them through challenging times.
Rob, Management: Prioritising Mind Over Matter
Rob lives by the 80/20 rule, prioritising tasks that bring the most results. By breaking down challenges into small, achievable tasks, Rob maintains a sense of clarity and progress, even in the face of adversity. The ability to enhance how you process problems and stress is how you manage the external outputs and levels of stress. Rob’s secret? He recognises that true well-being starts from within. Instead of seeking external comforts, he looks inward, cultivating a mindset of self-reliance and strength. Rob continually pushes the boundaries of his comfort zone and sees obstacles as opportunities for growth and improvement. By embracing discomfort and challenges, he fosters resilience and inner strength. Rob’s philosophy reminds us that mental well-being isn’t just about external factors but also about mindset.
Summer, People Manager: Practicing Self-Reflection and Embracing Green Spaces
Whether it’s jotting down her thoughts or chatting with a close friend, Summer finds that reflecting on what’s going well and what could need improvement is a great way to stay grounded and focused. She enjoys a brisk walk in an open green space to clear her mind and think positively.
Mike, Offshore Operations: Finding Solace in Simple Pleasures
Mike, drawing from his experiences serving in Afghanistan, believes in simple remedies, to refocus the mind. For him, indulging in light-hearted TV shows like “An Idiot Abroad,” “Inbetweeners,” or “Ted” is a perfect escape after tough shifts in the Operations Room. Even as he moves to desk work in calmer settings, Mike emphasises the importance of staying mentally sharp. He finds joy in activities such as turbo training and tackling small tasks throughout the day, giving each moment a sense of purpose and clarity.
Soral, Operations Manager: Embracing Mindfulness in Daily Life
Soral advocates a holistic approach to mental well-being. She enjoys using tools like the Calm app to aid relaxation, while outdoor activities serve as a means of resetting and nourishing the body and mind. Eating mindfully and listening to podcasts also helps Soral stay balanced and feeling rejuvenated. At work, Soral finds satisfaction in list-making and proactive preparation for the day ahead, fostering a sense of readiness and control.
Lina, Sales & Marketing : Prioritising Connection and Self-Compassion
Lina highlights the importance of not going through tough times alone. Whether it’s having a meal together, sharing a drink, or just having a heartfelt chat, connecting with loved ones can really make a difference. Lina takes care of herself by doing things like breathwork, yoga, or hitting the gym. And when things get tough, she reminds herself to be kind and gentle. She pays attention to her inner thoughts and directs her focus on the things she’s grateful for.
Cassi, Marketing & PR : Connecting with Nature to Balance Out Life’s Demands
As a busy mum juggling various responsibilities, Cassi emphasises the importance of making time for herself amidst life’s busy demands. She finds solace in connecting with nature to recharge. She enjoys a countryside run, relishing the fresh air, and soaking in natural beauty around her. Cassi intentionally leaves her earphones behind fully immersing herself in the calming sounds of nature that lift her spirits. Tending to her garden is another source of peace for Cassi, offering a therapeutic escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
As we reflect on these insights, let’s remember that mental well-being is a journey unique to each individual. By embracing diverse approaches and incorporating self-care practices into our daily lives, we can foster resilience and nurture our mental health.
The NHS has launched their Better Health – Every Mind Matters campaign to help with this. By answering five simple questions, personalised ‘Mind Plans’ are created, providing pointers on dealing better with stress, anxiety, mood swings, and how to feel more in control.
Remember, your mental well-being matters. Take the time to prioritise self-care and seek support when you need it. Together, we can cultivate a culture of mental wellness and resilience.
