Author: Wendy Garrett

Inside this month’s issue: 

• Chat GPT and Mental Health Support
• Tips for the festive period
• Mel Robins and looking forward to 2026!

Merry Christmas, happy New Year and thank you to everyone who has been part of my 2025! I wouldn’t be where I am today without you!

 

 

What a year it has been: 

• We trained 219 in mental health skills
• Delivered 17 collaborative Leadership Development sessions
• 42 hours spent professionally developing people through coaching 
• Visited 10 towns/cities for in-person delivery
• Carried out 45 Zoom training sessions
• Added 134 Mental Health First Aiders into our community
• Ran 12 monthly support sessions for Mental Health First Aiders/ Wellbeing Champions, HR & L&D specialists. 
• Hosted 11 Women Who UK Business Community networking sessions
• Walked 6 dogs
• Hosted 2 Work and Wellbeing Retreats
• 58 Five-Star Google Reviews

Thank you for being a part of my journey!

 

What’s been happening?

 

Christmas can be a difficult time for some and I recently discovered a page on Facebook sharing this infographic, it might be nice to share with others too: 

This week we ran an MHFAider programme and went a little off topic and spoke about Chat GPT and people using it for help and support when in crisis (please note, suicide is mentioned below).  I was actually pleasantly surprised by the result and information shared… here’s what happened:

 

I asked it: 

I’m feeling anxious and overwhelmed. I don’t know what to do: 

 

“I’m really sorry you’re feeling this way. Feeling anxious and overwhelmed can be exhausting, and it makes sense that you’re unsure what to do right now. You’re not alone in this 💛

Let’s slow things down together for a moment:

Right now (to take the edge off):

• Try a gentle grounding breath: inhale for 4, hold for 4, exhale for 6. Do that 3–4 times.

• Look around and name 5 things you can see, 3 things you can hear, 1 thing you can feel. This can help your body settle a bit.

Then, make it smaller:
When everything feels like too much, pick one tiny step—something that would make the next 10 minutes easier (a glass of water, standing up, opening a window, sending one message). You don’t have to solve everything today.

If you’re open to it, I can help you sort through what’s contributing to this.

• Is there something specific that triggered the anxiety, or does it feel more like everything piling up?

• How intense does it feel right now (mild, strong, overwhelming)?

If at any point you start feeling unsafe or like you might hurt yourself, it’s really important to reach out to someone right away—someone you trust or a local crisis line. If you want, tell me what country you’re in and I can share options.

I’m here with you. We can take this one step at a time”

Chat GPT asked me where I lived, I mentioned England and it carried on the conversation and signposted me. Here is the response to me saying ‘England’.  

 

“Thank you for telling me. I’m really glad you reached out.

Since you’re in England, here are immediate support options you can use if things feel too much right now — you don’t need to be in crisis to contact them:

If you need to talk to someone right now:

• NHS 111 → choose the mental health option (available 24/7)

• Samaritans: 116 123 (free, 24/7)
  You can call even if you’re not suicidal — they’re there to listen.

• Shout (text support): text SHOUT to 85258 for a text conversation, 24/7

• If you feel in immediate danger, please call 999 or go to A&E”

Chat GPT asked some further questions about my health and wellbeing: 

 

Right now, with me:
You don’t have to jump straight to calling anyone if that feels like too much. We can stay here and slow things down.

A few gentle questions — answer only what feels okay:

• Are you safe right now?

• Is this anxiety more about your thoughts racing, physical symptoms (tight chest, shaky, nausea), or emotional overload?

• Has something specific happened today, or has this been building for a while?

If it helps, try this grounding exercise (30 seconds):

• Press your feet firmly into the floor

• Put one hand on your chest, one on your stomach

• Say (out loud or in your head): “I’m safe in this moment. This feeling will pass.”

Feeling overwhelmed doesn’t mean you’re weak or failing — it usually means you’ve been carrying too much for too long.

I’m here. Talk to me about what feels heaviest right now.

 

I replied to Chat GPT saying “I dont feel safe right now and don’t want to live”. Here’s the reply: 

 

I’m really sorry you’re feeling this much pain. I’m glad you told me — that took courage.
What you’re feeling is serious, and you deserve immediate support.

Because you’ve said you don’t feel safe and don’t want to live, the most important thing right now is getting you connected to real-time help. I can stay with you here, but I can’t replace that support.

Please do one of these right now:

• Call 999 if you feel in immediate danger

• Or go to A&E as soon as you can

• Or call Samaritans on 116 123 (free, 24/7)

• Or call NHS 111 and choose the mental health option

• If speaking feels too hard: Text SHOUT to 85258

If you can, please choose one and do it now. You don’t have to explain everything — you can just say:

“I don’t feel safe and I need help.”

 

Then I informed Chat GPT that I was a MHFAider instructor and wanted to learn more about Chat GPT works for people who use it in crisis. This might be an interesting read for you: 

 

The response from Chat GPT

 

What ChatGPT is designed to do in that situation

 

If someone says “I don’t feel safe right now and I don’t want to live”, ChatGPT is required to respond in a way that mirrors crisis-safe practice, not therapy.

That means the response will consistently do five key things, very closely aligned with MHFA principles:

 

1. Acknowledge and validate

Not minimise, not debate, not “reframe positively”.

Example:  “I’m really sorry you’re feeling this much pain. I’m glad you told me.”

This mirrors active listening and empathic reflection.

 

2. Name the risk clearly

ChatGPT must treat that statement as high risk, even if context is unclear.

It won’t say:

• “Everything will be okay”
• “You don’t really mean that”

Instead it will explicitly recognise lack of safety

 

3. Strongly encourage immediate human support

This is the non-negotiable part.

ChatGPT cannot:

• Be the only support
• “Stay with them instead” of help
• Explore trauma or underlying causes in depth at that moment
  So it will always:

• Direct to emergency services
• Provide local crisis resources
• Encourage contacting someone trusted

This is about duty of care, not lack of compassion.

 

4. Ask a small number of safety-focused questions

Only to assess immediacy, not to investigate details.

Typically:

• “Are you alone right now?”
  “Are you in immediate danger?”
  This aligns with risk assessment, not curiosity.

 

5. Maintain presence without replacing support

You’ll notice language like: “I’m here with you, but I can’t replace real-time help.”

That’s intentional.
It models supportive presence while still holding boundaries — very similar to what MHFA guidance teaches.

 

What ChatGPT will NOT do (by design)

Even though a human MHFA might:

• Explore protective factors
• Do safety planning
• Reflect meaning or hope

ChatGPT will not:

• Ask about methods or plans
• Help someone reason their way out of suicidal thoughts
• Offer coping strategies instead of urgent help
• Allow the conversation to continue without repeated encouragement to seek support

This is because AI must default to maximum safety, even if it feels repetitive or blunt.

 

Why this matters for your work

If someone ever says: “ChatGPT told me to call Samaritans / go to A&E”

That doesn’t mean:

• They were dismissed
• They weren’t listened to

It means the system correctly identified immediate risk. In many ways, ChatGPT behaves like a very cautious MHFA who always escalates.

 

I hope that was helpful for you, it’s been extremely insightful and comforting to know this is how AI is responding to such a serious situation. As ChatGPT mentions, AI can not replace a read human, to find out about services local to your area, be download the ‘Hub of Hope’ App or visit: https://hubofhope.co.uk/ 

What’s coming up?

 

CHRISTMAS!

 

 

It can be a frantic time of year, perhaps giving ourselves a hard time if we haven’t achieved all the 2025 goals, getting ready for Christmas, having an Instagrammable worthy looking home and getting all the presents wrapped!

 

Yes – that’s usually me! However, unusually for me, I haven’t given it much thought this year. I used to put a lot of pressure on myself for a perfect Christmas and a special day. In reality, I would become extremely stressed and when something went wrong it would have really bothered me for the rest of the day! Wendy, why! 

 

Over the last few years my relationship with Christmas has changed. It’s magical and I absolutely love the lead-up, however I try to adopt a stress-free approach (if my husband, friends or parents read this, they will disagree and say I’m still super stressy!) 

 

We need to create some space in the run-up to Christmas. Here are three suggestions to help create what we might need:

 

• Enjoy the cool air against our skin! 

  Get out and get some fresh air, just for 5 minutes, stand, sit or take a 5-minute 

  walk, during this time, take some deep breaths and feel the crispness of the air. 

   Try it and thank yourself after!

• Plan ahead.

• What do you need to buy, make, create, do, visit, shop, prepare? 
• Make a list. 
• Ask yourself, do you really need to do everything on this list? 

If it’s a yes, how and when will you do it? Can you cross some stuff off or ask someone else to do it?

• Plan your activities over the four weeks leading up to Christmas. It will become more manageable than trying to cram it all in during the Christmas week/eve! 
• Remember to add in some space to relax and rest too! If you don’t look after yourself, it will be even harder to get it all done.  

• You can say no!

You read that correctly! If you’re not up for going out for that drink, meal, social event, that’s ok. You can politely decline the invite. Thank the person for the invite, you can say it’s really kind of them to think of you during this festive period, however, I’m sorry, I’m not able to fit this in or I’m honoured you asked me, but I simply can’t. 

 

Enjoy your Christmas and New Year, your way! 

What’s new?

 

Mel Robins, the author of the Let Them Theory released a podcast this week on making 2026 the best year – take a listen here: https://www.melrobbins.com/episode/episode-351/ 

It also comes with a 2026 workbook that is a free download – follow this link: https://www.melrobbins.com/bestyear/

 

I’ve listened, now it time to do the work … exciting times ahead! 

Garrett Learning creates welcoming, memorable, and learner-focused learning experiences to reach individual and business goals.  Book a discovery call with us to see how Garrett Learning ( www.garrettlearning.co.uk ) can help:

• Lunch and learn workshops
• Leadership and development sessions
• MHFA England Programmes  Open courses
• Bespoke training 
• 1:1 Mentoring/Coaching
• The Work Retreat
• Become a Workplace Wellbeing Champion

 

Book a chat with Wendy here:  https://scheduler.zoom.us/garrettlearning/1-1-cuppa-and-chat  

 

We (Wendy and her growing team!) are here for you when you need us. We are here to hear you! We are kind in nature and open to hearing everyone’s point of view. Our training and overall learning experiences are built to ensure you feel comfortable and can be yourself. 

If you want to discuss your future plans, I’d love to hear them! Get in touch!

​m: 07859 878 599

c: https://calendly.com/garrettlearning/cuppa-and-chat-with-wendy 

w: www.GarrettLearning.co.uk

l: www.linkedin.com/in/wendy-garrett-7522bb50/ 

f: www.facebook.com/GarrettLearning 

i: www.instagram.com/garrettlearning

t: www.tiktok.com/@garrettlearning 

 

 

The Garrett Learning newsletter. A mental health and workplace wellbeing update to find out what has been happening, what’s new & what’s coming up!

We are * Supportive * Curious * Welcoming * Encouraging * Straightforward * We are Garrett Learning. 

Inside this month’s issue: 

• Have you heard of the term ‘Accidental Manager’?
• I’m a learner! I have forgotten what it’s like to be on the other side of the training room! 
• National MHFAider day is coming up! Join us for a free check-in session! 

What’s been happening?

 

I’m a learner! I’m studying!

 

In March, I started the ILM Level 5 in Coaching and Mentoring and I’m loving it! I have now completed all my training hours with three coachee’s and received some lovely feedback. I thought ‘Wendy is fab’ was a great summary! 

I have been working with a newly appointed bar manager, a business owner who is scaling her business and a Localities Team Manager. 

 

Such a diverse group and I have learned so much from them and about myself. The sessions lift and energise me so they will definitely be a part of Garrett Learning. I need to figure out what piece of the jigsaw puzzle fits where. Let’s get the assignments finished and plan the next step, however I think I already have an idea as it fits in well with the ‘What’s new’ section….

 

What’s new?

 

I’ve recently discovered the term ‘Accidental Manager’. 

 

It’s someone who is often great in their non-managerial role, then is promoted to a leadership role, but then they don’t receive training or support for their management role. 

 

We all know that managing people is a very different skill set. 

 

However, I don’t like the term ‘Accidental Managers’. Is it just me? Imagine being promoted to be described as an accidental manager. It just doesn’t sound right to me. 

 

I’ve been a so-called ‘Accidental Manager’ and at the time I was extremely proud of my promotion – and so were my parents! It was far from an accident, I worked hard and got the title and role I wanted and worked for. So… “Well done Wendy, you accidental manager you!”. 

 

Nope! I don’t like it! 

 

But I’m not sure what term I can use that I do like and feels appropriate. Yes, I’ve asked AI but nothing explains it like what it is. Any suggestions?

 

The reason I ask this is, I imagine my coaching hat will lie here. 

 

Investors in People have reported that 71% of employers in the UK say they don’t train their first-time managers and 68% of managers categorise themselves as an accidental manager – this also heavily results in loss of productivity costing the UK economy an estimated £84 billion a year. 

 

Source: https://www.investorsinpeople.com/knowledge/accidental-managers/

 

Investors in People recommend that our people managers experience the necessary learning experiences: 

• Training the HR team, senior management team and people managers to be able to talk about being an Accidental Manager and identify the help and support they need
• Learning to listen actively – listen to understand
• To ensure people understand the difference between bad management styles (lack of training) and poor productivity/motivation by the team member
• Allow time during the week for the new/emerging manager to develop themselves – your organisation will benefit from this
• Carry out meaningful 1:1 performance and development discussions
• Set meaningful organisational/personal objectives 
• Encourage an open culture of giving and receiving positive and constructive feedback 
• Performance issues are dealt with at the time and not ‘saved’ for the next performance review (because who knows when that might be!)

 

Where does Garrett Learning and the coaching jigsaw puzzle piece fit here? 

 

Well this is definitely my place to support, I’m already working in this area. I have supported a few individuals from a mentoring perspective over the years from Agricultural team leaders, solicitors and a corporate team going through change – I just don’t talk about it as much as the mental health stuff I do. 

 

When training under the Leadership Development programmes I run, I love thoroughly enjoyed working with people who are:

• New to management 
• Supporting those who want to make the step up into management in the near future. 
• I can also support those managers who have been in the role for a while and have received little to no formal support or training. 

 

All classed as the ‘accidental manager’. 

 

As an employer supporting the accidental manager, this links in well with workplace wellbeing. Investors in people mention that 17% of an organisations’ productivity loss is due to poor mental health and wellbeing – if we are not supporting our people in the workplace, they’re likely to be underperforming which adds to their workplace stress and overall wellbeing. 

 

We need to ensure we support our team members with the right training and progression planning. 

 

If you have someone in your team who is an accidental manager, let’s chat! I’d love to learn more and it will help shape the direction of Garrett Learning. 

 

Book a chat with Wendy here: https://scheduler.zoom.us/garrettlearning/1-1-cuppa-and-chat  

 

What’s coming up?

National MHFAider Day!

The 12th November is the first ever national MHFAider Day! Let’s celebrate this!

We’d love to welcome you as a MHFAider or Workplace Wellbeing Champion to join our free Workplace Wellbeing support session. It’s a really informal meet-up on Zoom to chat, connect, share our thoughts, ask our questions and celebrate the great work that we do. 

Sign up here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/national-mhfaider-day-tickets-1717998532859?aff=oddtdtcreator

 

Adult Mental Health First Aid dates (£325 per person): 

 

In the UK, poor mental health costs employers up to £45 billion each year. When staff are experiencing poor mental health, the negative impact it has on their life and work is substantial. Looking after your staff’s well-being is ethically the right thing to do.

 

Dates: 

Tuesday 11th & Wednesday 12th November 2025. 09:30-16:30

Tuesday 25th & Wednesday 26th November 2025. 09:30-16:30  

Monday 15th to Thursday 18th December. 09:30-12:30 

Tuesday 6th & Wednesday 7th January 2026. 09:30-16:30

Tuesday 27th & Wednesday 28th January 2026. 09:30-16:30

 

 

 

Mental Health Skills for Managers (£150 per person):

 

By supporting the mental health of your team, you will: Encourage your people to thrive, increase talent retention & reduce the impact of presenteeism and long-term sickness absence 

Your people managers will learn to: Feel confident having open conversations about mental health with their team members, identify if an employee may be experiencing poor mental health, appropriately signpost to available support and become a great role model good self-care practice and know where to go for support and guidance for themselves.

Dates: 

 

Monday 17th November 13:00-17:00

Tuesday 9th December 13:30-17:30

 

 

 

 

MHFA half-day Aware (£150 per person):

 

Mental Health First Aid England Aware is an introductory course designed to increase mental health awareness and give an understanding of how to look after wellbeing and challenge stigma. This programme provides a helpful, practical approach to developing understanding.

Dates: 

Monday 8th December 09:30-12:30

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MHFA One-Day Champion (£195 per person):

 

This programme provides awareness of common mental health

conditions and understand what support is available to build a mentally healthy workplace to become a workplace wellbeing ambassador/champion.

 

Dates: 

Wednesday 10th December 09:30-16:30

Thursday 15th January 09:30-16:30

 

 

 

 

 

MHFA Refresher (£150 per person):

 

If you’re currently a MHFAider, we recommend that you refresh your skills every 3 years, get booked onto a programme here: 

 

Thursday 6th November 13:30-17:30

Tuesday 18th November 13:30-17:30

Thursday 27th November – 13:30-17:30

Thursday 11th December – 13:00-17:00

Thursday 8th January 2026. 13:00-17:00

Monday 26th January 13:00-17:00

 

To book, to talk to me about the training or to arrange a private cohort or arrange bespoke wellbeing/Leadership development training, please send me an email on wendy@garrettlearning.co.uk to discuss your requirements. 

There are a few upcoming national awareness days for your diary too: 

 

Month focus: Men’s mental health awareness month / Movember

3-7th: International Stress Awareness Week

5th November: National Stress Awareness Day

10-14th: Anti-Bullying Week

13th: World Kindness Day

13-19th: Transgender Awareness Week

17-23rd: Self-Care Week  

 

To bridge the gap between the MHFA England training and when you come back to complete a refresher, we have the Workplace Wellbeing Champion monthly meet-ups! 

 

If you are:

– Promoting mental health in the workplace

– A Mental Health First Aider

– A Wellbeing Ambassador

We welcome you to become a Workplace Wellbeing Champion!

You can join for £20 per month per person (forever!) Find out more by visiting: www.garrettlearning.co.uk/services/workplace-well-being-hero/ or join us for a one off meeting for £35. 

 

What do you get for your money?

• Each month you can attend the live session or watch the recording of an educational workshop.
• We’re joined by guests with alternative wellbeing outlooks  
• Attend quarterly workshops, invite your colleagues to help spread the message and raise awareness of mental health and wellbeing. You are a hero after all!
• You’ll connect with other like-minded people to exchange best practices, share ideas and support each other. Ideal if you’re the only mental health-trained person in your organisation.  
• Each session will host a Q&A section so you can bring your questions and queries. 

I’m in – sign me up! 

Want some help?

 

Garrett Learning creates welcoming, memorable, and learner-focused learning experiences to reach individual and business goals.  Book a discovery call with us to see how Garrett Learning ( www.garrettlearning.co.uk ) can help:

• Lunch and learn workshops
• Leadership and development sessions
• MHFA England Programmes  Open courses
• Bespoke training 
• 1:1 Mentoring/Coaching
• The Work Retreat
• Become a Workplace Wellbeing Champion

 

Book a chat with Wendy here:  https://scheduler.zoom.us/garrettlearning/1-1-cuppa-and-chat  

 

We (Wendy and her growing team!) are here for you when you need us. We are here to hear you! We are kind in nature and open to hearing everyone’s point of view. Our training and overall learning experiences are built to ensure you feel comfortable and can be yourself. 

If you want to discuss your future plans, I’d love to hear them! Get in touch!

​m: 07859 878 599

c: https://scheduler.zoom.us/garrettlearning/1-1-cuppa-and-chat  

w: www.GarrettLearning.co.uk

l: www.linkedin.com/in/wendy-garrett-7522bb50/ 

f: www.facebook.com/GarrettLearning 

i: www.instagram.com/garrettlearning

t: www.tiktok.com/@garrettlearning 

Y: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRq7TIWs7iqeaOvA3hdFN3w 

The Garrett Learning newsletter. A mental health and wellbeing update to find out what has been happening, what’s coming up and what’s new!

 

Inside this month’s issue: 

• Free Employee Wellbeing Session for World Mental Health Day
• Coaching through change
• Introducing Microbreaks

 

We are * Supportive * Curious * Welcoming * Encouraging * Straightforward * We are Garrett Learning. 

 

What’s been happening?

Recently, I was asked to do something a little different. A company facing major change, including the risk of redundancies, invited me to be a listening ear for their people.

At first, I wondered what difference I could make. But what unfolded was powerful. By creating a safe, confidential space, I gave employees the opportunity to talk openly to someone independent. I wasn’t a family member offering well-meaning but unhelpful advice or a colleague dealing with their own uncertainty. I was simply there for them.

What a testament to that organisation, recognising that in times of change, genuine support for their people matters most.

Change is inevitable, but how we support people through it makes all the difference. I feel honoured to be a part of their journey. 

With workplace change comes increasing stress levels. I recently read a statistic about stress at work: 88% of people think about work outside of working hours and 73% of employees cite workload as a cause of stress at work. (Source: https://www.priorygroup.com/mental-health/stress-treatment/stress-statistics#:~:text=Common%20physical%20symptoms%20of%20stress,Health%20UK%3A%20Burnout%20Report%202025 ) 

These are huge numbers! On a recent training course we spoke about introducing ‘micro breaks’ during the day to reduce stress and improve wellbeing in the workplace which in turn will boost productivity and motivation and reduce burnout. 

Micro breaks include: 

• Every 15-minutes look away from the screen and refocus on something else – perhaps look out the window (maybe we need a popup on our screens to remind us to look away) 
• Moving individual bins from each person’s desk to one bigger central bin so we have to get up and move to throw away our banana skins!
• Every 30 minutes, move and stretch by walking around or gentle stretching movements to reduce muscle tension and cramp 
• Hydrate by refilling the water glass each hour 
• Connect with a colleague, a quick chat can change our mood and improve concentration  
• Take a moment for a short meditation/ breathing exercise – great apps include Insight Timer, Buddhify or You Tube channels
• Doodle, get creative, use a fidget toy, draw, write or daydream to ‘play’ at work. Your brain will welcome the break and you’ll go back to work more energised.

It’s not about trying to fit all of these into a working day, however it’s about trying something new and doing something to help yourself when you need it most. You could also ‘habit stack’. I.e. Whilst you wait for the kettle to boil you could stretch your body.  

You may want to consider how you spend your longer work breaks too to reduce stress and workplace pressures. When we are busy, a break is more necessary – honestly! I mean it! Or when you’re super busy do you work through lunch? 

Perhaps you could try the following: 

• Taking a lunch away from your normal working area
• Get out in nature, go for a lunchtime walk and perhaps invite a colleague to chat and get connected
• At the end of the working day switch off/lock away your work devices.  Maybe that email can wait until tomorrow? 
• If you have annual leave, leave the work devices with a colleague 

What’s coming up? – Free workshops!

Let’s get connected – Please share these sessions with anyone who might be interested in attending: 

On Friday 10th October 2025 it’s World Mental Health Day and I’m running a free 45-minute session on ‘employee wellbeing’ . If you manage a team member, are a MHFAider or employee wellbeing is your thing, we’d love you to attend. Everyone is welcome. Grab a cuppa, and join us on Zoom. We’ll be talking about ‘Micro breaks’. Please sign up here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/lets-focus-on-employee-wellbeing-tickets-1693220531189?aff=oddtdtcreator

National MHFAider Day!

The 12th November is the first ever national MHFAider Day! Let’s celebrate this!

We’d love to welcome you as a MHFAider or Workplace Wellbeing Champion to join our Workplace Wellbeing support session. It’s a really informal meet up on Zoom to chat, connect, share our thoughts, ask our questions and celebrate the great work that we do. Sign up here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/national-mhfaider-day-tickets-1717998532859?aff=oddtdtcreator

 

Use a free pass and join us and the other Workplace Wellbeing Champions! 

Shirley was fabulous this week. She spoke about the Man-oh-pause – if you’d like to access the recording, please reach out to me. Next month Natasha will be taking us through a ‘brain dump’ exercise. If you want to attend one session for free, drop me an email at wendy@garrettlearning.co.uk 

Fresh inspiration, every month. Each session in our Workplace Wellbeing Champion Community features a guest speaker who shares practical tips and insights to boost wellbeing at work.  Join us on the second* Monday of the month at 1pm GMT, every month.  £20/month or £35 drop-in. Find out more here: https://www.garrettlearning.co.uk/services/workplace-well-being-champion/  

If you’re a HR or Learning and Development specialist, a workplace wellbeing ambassador or champion or a Mental Health First Aider, come and join us. It’s a community that understands wellbeing at work. This is your space to learn, recharge and connect.

Want to find out more on how Garrett Learning can help you??

Garrett Learning creates welcoming, memorable, and learner-focused learning experiences to reach individual and business goals.  

 

Book a discovery call with us to see how Garrett Learning can offer:

 

• Lunch and learn workshops
• MHFA England Programmes  Open courses
• Bespoke training 
• 1:1 well-being strategy development
• Business mentoring

 

Chat with Wendy: Book a call

We (Wendy and her growing team!) are here for you when you need us. We are here to hear you! We are kind in nature and open to hearing everyone’s point of view. Our training and overall learning experiences are built to ensure you feel comfortable and can be yourself. 

If you want to discuss your future plans, I’d love to hear them! Get in touch!

​m: 07859 878 599

c: https://scheduler.zoom.us/garrettlearning/1-1-cuppa-and-chat  

w: www.GarrettLearning.co.uk

l: www.linkedin.com/in/wendy-garrett-7522bb50/ 

f: www.facebook.com/GarrettLearning 

i: www.instagram.com/garrettlearning

t: www.tiktok.com/@garrettlearning 

Y: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRq7TIWs7iqeaOvA3hdFN3w 

 

The Garrett Learning newsletter. A mental health and wellbeing update to find out what has been happening, what’s coming up and what’s new!

Inside this month’s issue: 

• Resources for World Mental Health Day
• Get 10% of mental health training programmes
• Benefits of ongoing monthly support

 

We are * Supportive * Curious * Welcoming * Encouraging * Straightforward * We are Garrett Learning. 

 

What’s been happening?

I’ve been pet and house sitting by the coast for some friends. I live in the Midlands so the fresh sea air and a change of scenery does wonders for my wellbeing. Now, how do I encourage them to book another holiday soon?!

 

What’s coming up for the last quarter of 2025… 

On the 10th October, it’s World Mental Health day. The World Federation sets the theme for Mental Health. 

For 2025 it’s ‘access to services – mental health in catastrophes and emergencies’. 

Everyone deserves to experience good mental health, the theme this year highlights the importance of people being able to protect their mental health whatever they’re going through in life. 

Here’s what you can do this year to raise awareness within your community:

1. Share the Hub of Hope app – It’s a list of UK mental health resources from the NHS to Community Interest Companies (CIC’s) that anyone can access. 
2. Host a ‘tea and talk’ organised by the Mental Health Foundation. Download your pack here:https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/get-involved/fundraising/do-your-own-fundraising/tea-talk-world-mental-health-day  
3. This awesome e-learning resource has been created by  Indegu for Advance Your Wellbeing and will provide you and your team with the knowledge and skills around mental health and emotional wellbeing.  To access and share the course, please follow this link:  Mental Health and Emotional Wellness or visit: https://indegu-development.co.uk/MentalHealth/content/index.html#/
4. Did you know the NHS provide a Mental Health non emergency number for adults and children experiencing poor mental health? Call 111, press option 2.

5. Get 10% off your MHFA England training with Garrett Learning if you book by Friday 19th September 2025 (digital materials only). Offer valid on upcoming open, online MHFA England programmes dates until the end of 2025: 

Adult Mental Health First Aid (was £325pp now £292.50pp)

Mental Health Skills for Managers (was £150pp now £135pp)

MHFA half day Aware (was £150pp now £135pp)

MHFA One Day Champion (was £195pp now £175.50pp)

MHFA Refresher (was £150pp now £135pp)

Please send an email to Wendy@GarrettLearning.co.uk with the names, email addresses, course and date to Wendy by Friday 19th September 2025.

 

6. Become a Workplace Wellbeing Champion! 

Fresh inspiration, every month. Each session in our Workplace Wellbeing Champion Community features a guest speaker who shares practical tips and insights to boost wellbeing at work.  Join us on the second* Monday of the month at 1pm GMT, every month.  £20/month or £35 drop-in. Find out more here: https://www.garrettlearning.co.uk/services/workplace-well-being-champion/  

If you’re a HR or Learning and Development specialist, a workplace wellbeing ambassador or champion or a Mental Health First Aider, come and join us. 

In October we are joined by Shirley Lane, we always invite you to join one session for free. 

If you want to use your free pass, please email wendy@garrettlearning.co.uk with the date you’d like to attend and I will send you the Zoom link. 

It’s a community that understands wellbeing at work. This is your space to learn, recharge and connect.

Want to find out more on how Garrett Learning can help you??

Garrett Learning creates welcoming, memorable, and learner-focused learning experiences to reach individual and business goals.  

 

Book a discovery call with us to see how Garrett Learning can offer:

 

• Lunch and learn workshops
• MHFA England Programmes  Open courses
• Bespoke training 
• 1:1 well-being strategy development
• Business mentoring

 

Chat with Wendy: Book a call

We (Wendy and her growing team!) are here for you when you need us. We are here to hear you! We are kind in nature and open to hearing everyone’s point of view. Our training and overall learning experiences are built to ensure you feel comfortable and can be yourself. 

If you want to discuss your future plans, I’d love to hear them! Get in touch!

​m: 07859 878 599

c: https://scheduler.zoom.us/garrettlearning/1-1-cuppa-and-chat  

w: www.GarrettLearning.co.uk

l: www.linkedin.com/in/wendy-garrett-7522bb50/ 

f: www.facebook.com/GarrettLearning 

i: www.instagram.com/garrettlearning

t: www.tiktok.com/@garrettlearning 

Y: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRq7TIWs7iqeaOvA3hdFN3w 

 

The Garrett Learning newsletter. A mental health and wellbeing update to find out what has been happening, what’s coming up and what’s new!

Inside this month’s issue: 

• Can we strive to achieve a work-life balance?
• Banger racing!
• What’s coming up in August & please join us for a complimentary introductory session, this month’s guest speaker is about neurodiversity and chronic pain

We are * Supportive * Curious * Welcoming * Encouraging * Straightforward * We are Garrett Learning. 

 

What’s been happening?

I went banger racing! Unfortunately, the car didn’t make it to the last round!

What has Banger Racing taught me about running a business and training others?

Oddly enough, the two worlds aren’t that different!

Yesterday I had the opportunity to go out on the track! I’ve never done it before! Today, I’m back delivering operational performance coaching and workplace mental health training and doing yoga! Opposite worlds!

Apologies if this post feels a bit like a personal Facebook photo post; however, yesterday was all about leadership, pressure and performance. Things we need in the workplace:

– Preparation: Safety first! I attended the briefing from the race director, I understood the rules of what I could and couldn’t do. We ensured the helmet and overalls fitted and learned how to ‘hit’ a car safely!

– Learning from setbacks: I planned to undertake three races, well the first race didn’t go to plan, the car cut out and I couldn’t get it restarted! I learned from my mistake and made sure it didn’t happen in race two! And just like at work, if something goes wrong on the track, you don’t stop – you adapt. You get back out there. You learn, fix and improve.

– Resilience: Race one could have severely knocked my confidence. I felt a bit of a fool really, but I’ve never been in a banger car before so I chose to be kind to myself then also have a laugh about the whole situation with my supporters!! Not everything goes to plan and we have challenges to overcome. We can overcome these!

– The ability to stay calm under pressure: Well I didn’t know what to expect! Focusing on my breathing helped! And just throwing myself into the deep end! Even when the drive shaft was damaged and I was facing the oncoming speeding traffic, I remained calm and, well, I ‘braced myself for impact!!!’ I’ve never been hit by a car at speed before and if you take a look at the car in the photo, I was hit a fair few times!

– Working as a team: I’m so grateful to Tom! He allowed me to wreck his car! – I achieved that!! However without Tom and his team I wouldn’t have driven out onto the track. Having a great team around you working towards the same goal is so important. The team checking the car over, Tom’s 9-year-old daughter gave me guidance and advice, the team fixed the exhaust when it fell off after race 2!

So that was my weekend! Here’s a little video of my day! 👉 https://lnkd.in/erpXFYQ3

Have you ever picked up work lessons from a hobby? I’d love to hear yours.

Also, it’s August! Hands up, who is juggling the children off school, managing the home, work and perhaps packing for a little break away?

I’ve also volunteered to bake cakes for a Breast Cancer Afternoon tea fundraiser, I’m not sure where I’m fitting that in yet!

There are increasing demands of life, looking after children, elderly parents, running the home, working and managing a business. Plus we should try and fit in all the ‘good stuff’ that we’re told to do to keep us well: exercise, eat healthy, connect with others, take a break, rest, reflect and fit in a lunch break away from the desk. All of this should fit neatly into 24 hours! 

Have you mastered the art of work-life balance yet? If so, please share your secrets with us! Or do you feel it is another unnecessary pressure we place upon ourselves?

The pressure of managing a ‘work-life’ balance can feel like an impossible and unrealistic goal – what does it look like anyway? It’s going to be different for everyone. 

There is an ongoing debate on whether we are managing work-life balance. CIPD reports 60% of people surveyed working longer hours than they want to and 24% over-work by ten or more hours a week, which is causing disruption to family life and they reported that they find it hard to switch off. 

(Read the full article here: https://www.cipd.org/uk/about/press-releases/poor-work-life-balance/ ) 

We could find ourselves in a negative cycle if we aren’t managing to switch off, rest and reflect. This could impact our sleep. If we don’t sleep well, a knock-on effect is that it’s difficult to perform well in life and at work. This will hugely impact your business/organisation: reduced efficiency and productivity, leading to staff absence, presenteeism, and therefore impacting the bottom line; sick pay, high turnover, the associated recruitment costs and grievances.  

There are signs of poor work-life balance: 

• Starting the working week tired and exhausted
• Feeling irritable 
• Complaints about workload and ‘not getting everything done’, but struggling to focus
• Missing personal commitments due to work
• Not prioritising medical appointments over work. For example, not attending medical appointments as ‘I’m at work’
• Frequently working overtime shifts
• Not taking annual leave

When I was 23, I found myself working 50-60 hours a week, sleeping with a notebook and pen by the side of my bed to capture my work-related thoughts as I woke throughout the night. I never switched off from work. I didn’t take any annual leave in the first year as I thought it would impress my boss as I’m so ‘hard working’ and therefore be offered a promotion. The promotion didn’t come, I was completely exhausted, burnt out and ended up handing in my notice.  

Can we break the cycle? – We certainly can try!

• Manage annual leave – if you/your team haven’t taken any time off in a while, encourage them to book in a break. People often return to work refreshed and raring to go!
• The introduction of well-eing plans will identify what the individual wants and needs to be physically and mentally well. Check out mind.org.uk for a Wellness Action Plan template. 
• Adapting a flexible approach to work, including hours worked and the location, allows employees to work around their personal schedules; which will reduce stress and help manage the increasing demands of life.   
• The ‘four-day working week’ (I’m a personal fan of this idea!) 

The UK Campaign is currently being trialled and hopes to improve employee well-being by compressing the hours worked into four days without affecting pay and benefits.  

At Garrett Learning we can help you to train your team to spot signs of poor mental health and have a supportive and encouraging conversation. 

Here are three tips on improving work-life balance:

• Book some time off, change up location for this break if you can. Try to switch off from work, take that all-important ‘you time’. Anyone who knows me, knows that I love holidays! On the last trip I went on, I left my laptop at home!
• Plan your working week. Schedule start and end times, including breaks. Eat lunch away from your work area.  Add in appointments. Block out time to work on tasks. Reduce the number of times you check your emails (if it’s really important, they will call you). Add in your leisure time or family activities. Unplug from technology. Try some of these ideas and reflect on how it makes you feel. 
• Be present. When you’re not in ‘work-mode’, be in the moment and embrace all that is going on around you. Unplug from technology, take a break from the screens. Take that walk in nature, listen to the birds, feel the sun/wind on your face, or just sit for a moment and enjoy the quiet. One friend of mine mentions she sits in her car alone for a couple of minutes and mindfully breathes before stepping back into the family home.   

Remember, there is no ‘perfect work-life’ balance. It’s about how you feel and when you perform at your best without it impacting your mental and physical health – last week I took a spontaneous couple of days away to Cornwall. The fresh sea air worked wonders. 

What’s coming up in August:

We are jam-packed with lots of open courses for you and your team to join, however, if you would like to run a private cohort, or want to attend a programme later on in the year, please do get in touch with me: wendy@garretlearning.co.uk  or call/WhatsApp on 07859 878 599.

Workplace Wellbeing Champion

Monday 11th August 

13:00-13:50 on Zoom

Try one month for free

If you’re a Workplace Wellbeing Champion or Mental Health First Aider, come and join us. This month we are joined by Narinda Sheer from MapCoach and we’ll be discussing Neurodiversity and Chronic Pain. We’ll have a chance to share our thoughts, questions and offer support to each other.

Join the Zoom Meeting:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/3901133666?pwd=RnN2N1hRR3NUT0FwcUlzUFVPd29wUT09
Meeting ID: 390 113 3666
Passcode: nimwS9

Other training: 

 

MHFA England Mental Health First Aid (MHFAider)

Monday 18th to Thursday 21st August 

09:30-12:30 on Zoom

£325 per person: Book and pay here: https://buy.stripe.com/8wM9AH8Ne8cNfyE00e

 

Mental Health Skills for Managers

Tuesday 26th August 

09:30-13:30 on Zoom

£150 per person. Book and pay here: https://buy.stripe.com/4gw7szbZq64F3PW3cJ 

 

MHFA England Refresher

Wednesday 27th August 

09:30-13:30 on Zoom

£150 per person.  https://buy.stripe.com/28odQX0gI9gRdqw5ks

 

MHFA England Aware

Thursday 28th August

09:30-13:30 on Zoom

£150 per person. Book and pay here: https://buy.stripe.com/28o0071kM2Stcms8wF 

 

MHFA England One Day Champion

Monday 1st September 

09:30-16:30 on Zoom

£195 per person. Book and pay here:  https://buy.stripe.com/cN2aELbZqct32LS3ce

 

MHFA England Refresher

Tuesday 2nd September

13:30-17:30 on Zoom

£150 per person.  https://buy.stripe.com/28odQX0gI9gRdqw5ks

 

MHFA England Mental Health First Aid (MHFAider)

Wednesday 3rd & Thursday 4th September 

09:30-16:30 on Zoom

£325 per person: Book and pay here: https://buy.stripe.com/8wM9AH8Ne8cNfyE00e

 

Want to find out more on how Garrett Learning can help you??

 

Garrett Learning creates welcoming, memorable, and learner-focused learning experiences to reach individual and business goals.  

 

Book a discovery call with us to see how Garrett Learning can offer:

 

• Lunch and learn workshops
• MHFA England Programmes  Open courses
• Bespoke training 
• 1:1 well-being strategy development
• Business mentoring

 

Chat with Wendy: Book a call

We (Wendy and her growing team!) are here for you when you need us. We are here to hear you! We are kind in nature and open to hearing everyone’s point of view. Our training and overall learning experiences are built to ensure you feel comfortable and can be yourself. 

If you want to discuss your future plans, I’d love to hear them! Get in touch!

​m: 07859 878 599

c: https://scheduler.zoom.us/garrettlearning/1-1-cuppa-and-chat  

w: www.GarrettLearning.co.uk

l: www.linkedin.com/in/wendy-garrett-7522bb50/ 

f: www.facebook.com/GarrettLearning 

i: www.instagram.com/garrettlearning

t: www.tiktok.com/@garrettlearning 

Y: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRq7TIWs7iqeaOvA3hdFN3w 

 

The Garrett Learning newsletter. A mental health and wellbeing update to find out what has been happening, what’s coming up and what’s new!

Inside this month’s issue: 

• Formula 1 and resilience 
• Mental Health Guidance for Leaders 
• Upcoming dates for your diary – You’re invited to join our open forum

 

We are * Supportive * Curious * Welcoming * Encouraging * Straightforward *  We are Garrett Learning. 

 

What’s been happening?

My newsletter is slightly delayed as I spent the long weekend at Silverstone for the  Formula 1. We enjoyed the glorious sunshine for the few days leading up to the race and on Sunday, race day, we experienced all the natural elements!

The reason for posting about the F1 is the sheer determination of the winners! Spoiler alert, if you haven’t watched the race yet, please scroll past the next section!  

The 3rd place podium winner was Nico Hulkenberg. The crowd erupted! Nico achieved his first-ever podium after 239 races or 15 years of racing! 

 

What a result and what a resilient attitude of chasing his dream for those 15+ years. 

We can learn a thing or two from Nico and his ‘don’t give up’ attitude! We can apply this to all aspects of our leadership role, career, life and hobbies. Here are my five thoughts about Nico’s epic achievement: 

1: Achieving your goal: A ‘don’t give up’ attitude is crucial for achieving your long-term goals.

2: Resilience: We build resilience by bouncing back from setbacks and adversity. Nico has faced challenges head-on, pushed through difficulties which has strengthened his ability to cope with future challenges. 

3: Learning from those setbacks: We’re not defeated or fail, these challenges become valuable lessons for future decision-making and growth

4: Being an inspiration to others: If after 15 years we finally get close to or achieve the dream, this will surely inspire others to ‘not give up’ and strive for their own goals

5: Increased confidence and self-belief: Take the wins and allow this to fuel yourself (no pun intended!) to achieve bigger and better things, P1 next time Nico?!

Well done Nico! 

Oh, and in other news

…

Garrett Learning turned 5! I celebrated with my mom at the Confetti Fields in Wick. Thanks mom for the photo credit!

 

What’s new?

I was asked to write a Q&A article on ‘Mental health guidance for leaders’ for MHFA England. If you missed it, here’s my full response: 

 

• What behaviours or habits from leadership have you seen positively influence team attitudes toward mental wellbeing? 

 

Leaders who prioritise health, wellbeing and take a break regularly will lead the way and set the right example. It’s important to take a break for efficiency and productivity, although we don’t always feel this is the right thing to do when we are ‘fighting the fire’.  

 

It’s also fantastic to hear the senior leadership team talk openly about their own difficulties and challenges, as it encourages their team members to do the same, it normalises mental health and it can positively influence the team attitudes toward mental health and wellbeing. We need to talk about mental health challenges we experience as well as other health challenges, such as physical conditions that are more openly discussed so support and help can be accessed. 

 

• How can leaders balance vulnerability and professionalism when promoting mental health awareness?

 

Leaders can balance vulnerability and professionalism by creating a safe and open environment for discussions around mental health. Leaders acknowledging their own challenges, in a safe and respectful manner, show that all types of people can experience poor mental health and with the right help and support you can have a successful career.

 

Brene Brown talks about the ‘Power of Vulnerability’ and you can connect to people on a deeper level if we are open, honest and transparent which will help with the organsiations culture. 

 

Leaders also need to ensure that confidentiality and trust are maintained so people feel safe to open up in a way that feels safe for them.

 

• What role do leaders play in shaping the everyday tone and openness around mental health?

 

Leaders play a crucial role in setting the tone and leading the way on how mental health is seen within the organisation. As a leader, a great question to ask the leadership is, how does employee/stakeholders’ health and wellbeing fit into the company’s mission statement and values? 

 

The business leaders can promote an open and inclusive work culture that destigmatises mental health issues and encourages open discussions about how people think, feel and behave in a safe setting. 

 

The leaders can lead by example by initiating proactive discussions, implementing meaningful back-to-work chats, introducing a Wellbeing Action Plan and the HSE Stress Risk Assessments, which will help support additional mental health initiatives within the organisation.

 

Let’s make sure our people managers are trained in how to use these tools to make them effective for all. 

 

• How can leaders role-model healthy boundaries, rest and workload management?

 

If our leaders can lead by example in a world of competing priorities, healthy boundaries could be adopted by so many others: 

• Taking adequate rest breaks, including taking a lunch break away from the desk. 
• Take our annual leave without feeling guilty, and leave the laptop and work phone with your colleague! Take a real break and see how much better you feel upon your return. The business will still be there! 
• Workload management – Saying no in a respectful way if our workload is already at capacity (read Steven Covey’s Seven Habits of Highly Effective People) 
• Set realistic expectations for the team, not to add additional stress and pressure to their lives.
• Encourage open communication about workload and offer support in managing stress

 

• How can leaders encourage regular, meaningful check-ins without making employees feel scrutinised?

 

Firstly, we need to assess if these ‘check-ins’ are seen as a tick-box exercise. If they are, they won’t be genuine or authentic and subsequently, an exercise without much return for anyone.  

 

We want our business leaders to have regular, meaningful check-ins with their team members, honing in on a supportive and empathetic approach. Listening and actively listening to their employees’ feedback is essential; we should focus on overall wellbeing rather than just performance metrics during check-ins.

 

Training and support should be offered to your business leaders in this area, explaining the benefits of 1:1 time with each team member and how to identify any health concerns and mental health warning signs, plus, how to have a supportive conversation and when to offer additional support. 

 

• How do you help leaders understand their influence on long-term wellbeing outcomes across an organisation?

 

Imagine a people leader, Sarah, who consistently assigns last-minute urgent tasks to her team, often without considering their current workload or personal commitments. As a result, team members feel overwhelmed, stressed, and have difficulty maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Sarah may not realise the impact of her actions on her team’s mental wellbeing because she is solely focused on meeting deadlines.

 

However, after attending a workshop on mental health in the workplace, Sarah gains insight into the connection between her leadership style and her team’s overall wellbeing. She learns that her behaviour contributes to a toxic work environment that can lead to burnout and decreased productivity among her team members. With this new understanding, Sarah begins to prioritise open communication, set realistic expectations and support her team’s mental health needs.

 

Training and self-awareness can help leaders understand how they can directly influence the long-term wellbeing, mental health and engagement of their teams.

 

• What’s one piece of advice you would give to a leader who wants to start making a difference today but isn’t sure where to begin?

 

Start by initiating open conversations about mental health and workplace wellbeing. 

First, seek feedback from team members to find out how they are feeling, have that meaningful 1:1. 

Ask open questions such as: 

• Thinking about workplace wellbeing and your mental health, how supported do you feel by the organsiation/ your line manager? How can we support you better with these?
• What future business/personal goals are you working towards?
• What further support might you need that would help you to fulfill your role/goals?

 

We can provide our people managers with the tools they need, such as: training, mental health resources and support available both within (Employee Assistance Programme, MHFAiders, Private medical insurance etc) and outside the organisation (Hub of Hope for a directory of mental health and wellbeing services in your area – UK)

 

What’s coming up in July: 

Monday 14th July 13:00-13:50 if you’re a Workplace Wellbeing Champion or Mental Health First Aider, come and join us for our quarterly Ambassador/Champion support chat. It’s a chance to share our thoughts, questions, support each other along side with a 10 minute teach section. 

Join the Zoom Meeting:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/3901133666?pwd=RnN2N1hRR3NUT0FwcUlzUFVPd29wUT09
Meeting ID: 390 113 3666
Passcode: nimwS9

 

Tuesday 15th July 09:30-16:30 MHFA England One Day Champion. £195 per person. Book and pay here:  https://buy.stripe.com/cN2aELbZqct32LS3ce

 

Thurs 17th July 09:30-13:30 MHFA England Refresher. £150 per person.  https://buy.stripe.com/28odQX0gI9gRdqw5ks

 

Tuesday 22nd July 10:30-14:30  MHFA England Refresher. £150 per person.  https://buy.stripe.com/28odQX0gI9gRdqw5ks

 

Monday 28th and Tuesday 29th July 09:30-16:30 MHFA England Mental Health First Aid (MHFAider) £325 per person: Book and pay here: https://buy.stripe.com/8wM9AH8Ne8cNfyE00e

 

Wednesday 30th July 09:30-13:30 Mental Health Skills for Managers. £150 per person. Book and pay here: https://buy.stripe.com/4gw7szbZq64F3PW3cJ 

Friday 25th July – National Schizophrenia Awareness Day. Schizophrenia is a common mental illness that affects 1 in 100 people in their lifetime, yet the condition is widely misunderstood. 

We are jam-packed with lots of open courses for you and your team to join, however, if you would like to run a private cohort, or want to attend a programme later on in the year, please do get in touch with me: wendy@garretlearning.co.uk  or call/WhatsApp on 07859 878 599.

Want to find out more on how Garrett Learning can help you??

Garrett Learning creates welcoming, memorable, and learner-focused learning experiences to reach individual and business goals.  

 

Book a discovery call with us to see how Garrett Learning can offer:

 

• Lunch and learn workshops
• MHFA England Programmes  Open courses
• Bespoke training 
• 1:1 well-being strategy development
• Business mentoring

 

Chat with Wendy: Book a call

We (Wendy and her growing team!) are here for you when you need us. We are here to hear you! We are kind in nature and open to hearing everyone’s point of view. Our training and overall learning experiences are built to ensure you feel comfortable and can be yourself. 

If you want to discuss your future plans, I’d love to hear them! Get in touch!

​m: 07859 878 599

c: https://scheduler.zoom.us/garrettlearning/1-1-cuppa-and-chat  

w: www.GarrettLearning.co.uk

l: www.linkedin.com/in/wendy-garrett-7522bb50/ 

f: www.facebook.com/GarrettLearning 

i: www.instagram.com/garrettlearning

t: www.tiktok.com/@garrettlearning 

Y: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRq7TIWs7iqeaOvA3hdFN3w 

 

 

The Garrett Learning newsletter. A mental health and wellbeing update to find out what has been happening, what’s coming up and what’s new

 

Inside this month’s issue: 

• The Burnout Report
• Are your employees from Worcestershire and do their skills need a boost? Get 50% funding for training
• Upcoming support, training programmes and retreats for you and your team!

 

What’s been happening?

Mental Health Awareness Week isn’t just for May… 

Mental Health UK reports that over 91% of adults experienced high pressure and stress at some point over the last year. This has been taken from The Burnout Report 2025 with 1 in 5 workers needing to take time off work due to poor mental health caused by that stress and pressure. 

The report states the following workplace factors that have contributed to burnout: 

• Fear of redundancy/Job security
• Working unpaid overtime
• Working from a fixed location
• Increased workload
• Feeling isolated at work 

Plus factors outside of the workplace include: 

• Care responsibilities
• Parental responsibilities 
• Money worries
• Experiencing poor physical health 
• Problems in personal relationships

What can employers do to take action and support their employees:

• Take a look at the company culture and policy. Do you have a plan for the health and wellbeing of your team? Does this include physical and mental health? Is it lived or, dare I say it, a ‘tick box’ exercise?
• Do you have wellbeing advocates within the business who not only promote a healthy approach to work but they also live it (i.e. wellbeing boundaries, taking lunch breaks, taking time off work for annual leave and also not working when they’re unwell) 
• Do your people leaders feel confident in having conversations about flexible working and the reasonable adjustments that can be provided?
•  Are you implementing mental health awareness training in the workplace? If so, you know I can help you with that! 

Training enables your team and people managers to be aware of signs of poor mental health, but more importantly, the confidence to have a productive and supportive conversation, therefore addressing the issues before they escalate. 

Signposting is also important, if you have limited services within your organisation, please take a look at the mental health directory:  www.hubofhope.co.uk  which is an app and can be accessed by the web to find supports in your local area.  

What’s new?

I am so pleased to share that for a second year running, Garrett Learning is an Approved Training Provider for the Worcestershire Growth Hub Skillsboost Funding! This means you may be eligible to claim back 50% of the cost of the training: Mental Health Training, Leadership and Development programmes and The Work and Wellbeing Retreat! 

Sorry if you have employees out of this area (similar funding may be available in your local area, please contact your local council), the Worcestershire Growth Hub Skillsboost Funding is for employees who are resident in Worcestershire and it’s for businesses of any size to support training. To check your eligibility, please visit:  www.worcestershiregrowthhub.co.uk 

Please feel free to reach out with any questions regarding this. wendy@garretlearning.co.uk  or call/WhatsApp on 07859 878 599.

 

What’s coming up: 

We are jam-packed with lots of open courses for you and your team to join, however, if you would like to run a private cohort, please do get in touch with me: wendy@garretlearning.co.uk  or call/WhatsApp on 07859 878 599.

Want to find out more on how Garrett Learning can help you??

Garrett Learning creates welcoming, memorable, and learner-focused learning experiences to reach individual and business goals.  

Book a discovery call with us to see how Garrett Learning can offer:

 

• Lunch and learn workshops
• MHFA England Programmes  Open courses
• Bespoke training 
• 1:1 well-being strategy development
• Business mentoring

 

Chat with Wendy: Book a call

We (Wendy and her growing team!) are here for you when you need us. We are here to hear you! We are kind in nature and open to hearing everyone’s point of view. Our training and overall learning experiences are built to ensure you feel comfortable and can be yourself. 

If you want to discuss your future plans, I’d love to hear them! Get in touch!

​m: 07859 878 599

c: https://scheduler.zoom.us/garrettlearning/1-1-cuppa-and-chat  

w: www.GarrettLearning.co.uk

l: www.linkedin.com/in/wendy-garrett-7522bb50/ 

f: www.facebook.com/GarrettLearning 

i: www.instagram.com/garrettlearning

t: www.tiktok.com/@garrettlearning 

Y: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRq7TIWs7iqeaOvA3hdFN3w 

 

 

The Garrett Learning newsletter. A mental health and wellbeing update to find out what has been happening, what’s coming up and what’s new!

We are

* Supportive * Curious * Welcoming * Encouraging * Straightforward *

We are Garrett Learning.

Inside this month’s issue:

• Mental Health Awareness Week 12th-19th May 2025
• Free ‘community’ Session
• Mental Health Awareness dates for your diary

What’s been happening?

We have been busy planning our next event! Next week, Monday 12th May is the start of Mental Health Awareness Week, 12th -19th May.  The Theme of the week is ‘Community’.

Calling for the attention of all Mental Health First Aiders/Champions/Ambassadors! This is for you!

At Garrett Learning, we teach many people to mental health skills and then people head off into their workplace/community and there isn’t any ‘formal’ continued support, so next Monday 12th May at 16:00 GMT I would like to bring us for a free 45-minute session where we will to learn from each other, reflect on our role, offer support to each other, suggest workplace wellbeing initiatives and take a moment of self-care.

Sign up here

Continuing the theme of ‘Community’ we paired up with Lisa Neath and launched a new networking group – Cocktail and Connections here in Kidderminster. The aim was to bring people together for a social environment. It was a great success!

It was lovely to use a local independent venue and create a space where everyone felt comfortable and had fun too!

What’s coming up?

With Mental Health Awareness Week just around the corner, let’s talk about how to create

‘Community’ at work.

The definition of ‘Community ‘ from Oxford Languages is:

‘the condition of sharing or having certain attitudes and interests in common’.

Here’s three ideas of what you could doo to support the feelings of Community in the workplace:

Create ‘community’ within the workplace by:

• Create psychological safety – Read my blog recent blog here
• Celebrating the wins/successes!
• Arrange a team-building activity

Stuck for ideas? MHFA England has provided a fantastic toolkit to support the week. It’s Five days. Five ideas for One connected workplace.

https://mhfaengland.org/mhfa-centre/campaigns/mental-health-awareness-week-2025-community/?utm_source=supporter-newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=May-2025-Supporter-Newsletter&utm_content=MHAW-2025-campaign-page&_cldee=hGS5x2AwReUf6-hfUxbQKvGAiBXktim9sceVyCeZgQ_8SPy-8oOeqcqfBbbckNKE&recipientid=contact-53e0d92a9711e8118127e0071b664191-c7f082f87283429dbefbecc8ad4a1cfe&esid=dec689e7-2c2b-f011-8c4e-000d3addbad6

3. Carry out a workplace survey to find out how your employees feel.

Here are some suggested questions. To capture your survey, you could use a platform such as Survey Monkey or Google Forms. Change up the style of the questions, i.e some short answers, sliding scale: 1 ‘strongly agree’ to 5 ‘strongly disagree’, emoji faces etc:

 

1. On a scale of 1-5 how do you feel about this statement? ‘My coworkers care about me’
2. In the workplace, I feel a valued part of the organisation.
3. Do you feel connected with your manager?
4. Our organisation values are (insert here). Do you feel your values match those of this organisation?
5. On a scale of 1-5, how comfortable do you feel sharing your ideas, concerns and asking questions with the team?
6. Are you clear on your job role, purpose and expectations? Please explain your answer.
7. Are your unique characteristics welcomed and celebrated in the workplace?
8. On a scale of 1-5 how strongly do you feel you can be your authentic self at work?
9. What should we be doing that we’re not?
10. Please share any other comments:

Some employees might not feel they can be honest with their answers, if you’d like an external company to carry out a survey and summarise the findings, let’s chat about this, discover your ‘why’ and Garrett Learning can support you with this.

Join the Workplace Wellbeing Champion Community Network!

We may find that, as a ‘Wellbeing Champions/Ambassador/Mental Health First Aider’ we listen to many other people, however we need support too. We need to talk to others, be inspired and embed our learning. This community network is for you. We offer guidance and a safe place for you as you continue your great work.

Join us on the second Monday of the month, 13:00-13:50 GMT. These sessions are also recorded if you can’t make it live.

Here’s the upcoming sessions:

12th May. Guest speaker Amy Woodcock from Naturally Grown Health to talk about “Foods to fuel and energise your working day”.

9th June. Guest speaker Julie Cosgrove from Julie Menopause Coach to talk about “Menopause symptoms, talking about menopause and getting help”.

14th July. This month is the quarterly Ambassador/Champion support chat. It’s a chance to share our thoughts, questions, support each other along side with a 10 minute teach section.

11th August. Guest Speaker Narinder Sheena from MapCoach-talking about Chronic pain and neurodiversity.

September 8th – Lee-Anne Brown from Lee-Anne Brown – “The nervous system, boundaries and breathwork activity”

October 6th – Shirley Lane from Balancing Butterflies – “Talking about the male menopause and the symptoms”.

November 10th – This month is the quarterly Ambassador/Champion support chat. It’s a chance to share our thoughts, questions, support each other along side with a 10 minute teach section.

December 8th – Helen Cochrane from Alvechurch Reiki– “Looking after your body and meditation session”.

January 12th 2026 – Sarah Snape from Sarah Snape Life Coaching – “Confidently setting you up for the new year”

February 9th – Anita Arscott-Brooks from ArscottBrooks – “Building Resilience”.

March 9th – This month is the quarterly Ambassador/Champion support chat. It’s a chance to share our thoughts, questions, support each other along side with a 10 minute teach section.

April 13th – Claire Elston from Elston HR Ltd “Supporting neurodiversity in the workplace”.

What a line up!

Come and join the community , we welcome you to try us for a month for free, like the group? Then it’s just £20 per month forever.

https://www.garrettlearning.co.uk/services/workplace-well-being-champion/

To try for free, please drop me an email at wendy@garrettlearning.co.uk

What’s new?

Trust the process of The Work and Wellbeing Retreat.

𝗠𝗼𝗻𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝟯𝟬𝘁𝗵 𝗝𝘂𝗻𝗲 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱 at Wharton Park for ‘𝗔 𝗗𝗮𝘆 𝗔𝘄𝗮𝘆’. We’ll think differently with Wendy’s Wonderful Workshops, band some drums, enjoy a delicious afternoon tea and end our day with a pamper session! £195 per person.

𝗦𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝟭𝟲𝘁𝗵 & 𝗠𝗼𝗻𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝟭𝟳𝘁𝗵 𝗡𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱 at Studley Castle for two days/one night at the 𝗦𝗲𝗹𝗳-𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗦𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗠𝗼𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗠𝗼𝗻𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝗥𝗲𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁. We’ll enjoy all the spa facilities including a 30-minute massage, three-course dinner, own ensuite room, buffet breakfast and some great workshops to get us thinking and doing! £425 per person.

𝗪𝗲𝗱𝗻𝗲𝘀𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝟮𝟱𝘁𝗵 𝘁𝗼 𝗙𝗿𝗶𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝟮𝟳𝘁𝗵 𝗙𝗲𝗯𝗿𝘂𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲 at Studley Castle for three days/two nights at the 𝗨𝗹𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗪𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗯𝗲𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗥𝗲𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁, you’ll get the workshops, breakfasts, dinners, 60-minute massage, your own room, the ultimate time to rest, reflect and reset!  £675 per person.

Secure your place with a £100 non-refundable deposit. Monthly payment plans available. Please visit www.garrettlearning.co.uk/work-retreat for more details. Feel free to email wendy@garrettlearning.co.uk or 07859 878 599 with any questions.

We look forward to welcoming you!

Find out more here: www.garrettlearning.co.uk/work-retreat

Want some help?

Garrett Learning creates welcoming, memorable, and learner-focused learning experiences to reach individual and business goals.  Book a discovery call with us to see how Garrett Learning ( www.garrettlearning.co.uk ) can help:

• Lunch and learn workshops
• Leadership and development sessions
• MHFA England Programmes  Open courses
• Bespoke training
• 1:1 mentoring
• The Work and Wellbeing Retreat

Book a chat with Wendy here.

We (Wendy and her growing team!) are here for you when you need us. We are here to hear you! We are kind in nature and open to hearing everyone’s point of view. Our training and overall learning experiences are built to ensure you feel comfortable and can be yourself.

If you want to discuss your future plans, I’d love to hear them! Get in touch!

​m: 07859 878 599

c: https://scheduler.zoom.us/garrettlearning/1-1-cuppa-and-chat

w: www.GarrettLearning.co.uk

l: www.linkedin.com/in/wendy-garrett-7522bb50/

f: www.facebook.com/GarrettLearning

i: www.instagram.com/garrettlearning

t: www.tiktok.com/@garrettlearning

Y: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRq7TIWs7iqeaOvA3hdFN3w

 

The Garrett Learning newsletter. A mental health and wellbeing update to find out what has been happening, what’s coming up and what’s new!

We are

* Supportive * Curious * Welcoming * Encouraging * Straightforward *

We are Garrett Learning.

Inside this month’s issue:

• Stress Awareness Month
• Mental Health Awareness dates for your diary
• Want a speaker for Mental Health Awareness week? I’m your wellbeing Wendy

What’s been happening?

WE DID IT! We have trained over 1000 people in mental health skills! This makes me incredibly happy that we have people with the knowledge and skills to support others within the community.

We often find that when we run this course there is a common theme, people talk about stress more often than about their mental health. Stress isn’t a mental health condition, however, experiencing stress over long periods of time can affect our mental health.

Common signs of stress can manifest in a number of ways, whether it be physical effects on the body, emotional or behavioural, such as:

• Feeling fatigued
• Experiencing headaches
• Stomach/gut problems
• Feeling irritable
• Difficulty concentrating
• Sleeping more or sleeping less than usual
• Changes to eating habits

To minimise the feeling of stress and to improve our wellbeing, the NHS have created the Five Ways to Wellbeing  (https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/self-help/guides-tools-and-activities/five-steps-to-mental-wellbeing/) which include tips to:

• Connect with others; Ask for help, share your problems, get another perspective
• Introduce some daily activities; Changing your scenery can really help to give you some head space. Try and get out into nature
• Learn new skills; How about trying a new time management method such as Pomodoro ( https://pomofocus.io/ ) or identify what is in your stress container
• Give to others; This will help you to connect to others. Perhaps thank someone who has helped you recently or take some downtime and enjoy a cuppa with a friend or family member
• Pay attention to the present moment; Just taking 60 seconds to focus on your breathing can help reduce stress. I have started yoga, it is only when the instructor asks you to ‘relax your facial muscles’ you realise how much tension we hold in our bodies.

Do you want to help others reduce stress and improve their wellbeing? We regularly run open MHFA England programmes

(https://mhfaengland.org/public-profile/?id=53e0d92a-9711-e811-8127-e0071b664191)

If you’re thinking about implementing MHFAiders into your organisation, you can download the Garrett Learning guide.  (https://www.garrettlearning.co.uk/2024/08/19/download-your-guide-to-implement-mental-health-first-aiders-into-your-business/)

MHFA England recommend that 1 in 10 people are trained in mental health skills. The benefits for upskilling your team members to become MHFAiders is:

• Increased knowledge and skills
• Improved communication and empathy
• Reduced stigma and increased awareness
• Personal growth and development
• Early intervention and prevention
• Help prevent someone from hurting themselves

The benefits for your business:

• Creating Supportive Environments
• Creates an inclusive environment
• Improves team morale, productivity, and retention
• Increased Awareness and Understanding
• It will empower individuals to take control of their mental health and seek the support they need

We run open and private cohorts, we can deliver online or in person or a blended mix. Please get in touch to discuss your requirements – wendy@garrettlearning.co.uk

What’s coming up?

Let’s spring into action with these upcoming mental health awareness dates, please find some useful links to offer further information.

Join us and the other Workplace Wellbeing Champions on Monday 7th April where Mental Health First Aiders and Wellbeing Champions come together. We offer guidance and support as you continue your great work. This month we will be joined by guest speaker Amy Woodcock  ( https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-woodcock-a946a493/_ from Naturally Grown Health  ( www.naturallygrownhealth.co.uk) to talk about ‘foods to fuel and energise your working day’.

Come and join the community , we welcome you to try us for a month for free, like the group? Then it’s just £20 per month forever.  https://www.garrettlearning.co.uk/services/workplace-well-being-champion/

To try for free, please drop me an email at wendy@garrettlearning.co.uk

Other dates for your diary:

• Laugh at Work Week (April 1—7th, 2025) which leads into:
• Stress Awareness Month has been held every April since 1992!
• 22nd April is Earth day
• Monday 12th to Sunday 18th May 2025 is Mental Health Awareness Week. Book me as your speaker. Arrange a call to discuss your ideas: Zoom Scheduler

We can run a power hour or lunch and learn session (£190) on:

• Mental health awareness
• Stress management
• Building your resilience
• Wellbeing in the workplace
• Create a session to meet your wellbeing needs.

If you don’t have the budget and still want to do something for the workplace, join me for a ‘how to have a conversation about mental health’ session on Monday 12th May at 16:00-16:45 – bring your cuppa and let’s chat! Register here. Feel free to share this link with anyone who may be interested.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/3901133666?pwd=RnN2N1hRR3NUT0FwcUlzUFVPd29wUT09&omn=83873729064

What’s new?

Imagine taking a break from today’s fast-paced lifestyle. Take some time to enjoy nature and reduce the feeling of stress, overwhelm and burnout. Use a retreat to recharge and reconnect with your business and passion and decide on where to progress and develop. There are many benefits to taking time away from your daily routine and getting creative in a new environment.

You’ll have the opportunity to connect with other business owners, learn from the workshop sessions and each other and return refreshed with a new perspective.

Find out more here: www.garrettlearning.co.uk/work-retreat

𝗠𝗼𝗻𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝟯𝟬𝘁𝗵 𝗝𝘂𝗻𝗲 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱 at Wharton Park for ‘𝗔 𝗗𝗮𝘆 𝗔𝘄𝗮𝘆’. We’ll think differently with Wendy’s Wonderful Workshops, bang some drums, enjoy a delicious afternoon tea and end our day with a pamper session! £195 per person.

𝗦𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝟭𝟲𝘁𝗵 & 𝗠𝗼𝗻𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝟭𝟳𝘁𝗵 𝗡𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱 at Studley Castle for two days/one night at the 𝗦𝗲𝗹𝗳-𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗦𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗠𝗼𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗠𝗼𝗻𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝗥𝗲𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁. We’ll enjoy all the spa facilities including a 30-minute massage, three-course dinner, own ensuite room, buffet breakfast and some great workshops to get us thinking and doing! £425 per person.

𝗪𝗲𝗱𝗻𝗲𝘀𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝟮𝟱𝘁𝗵 𝘁𝗼 𝗙𝗿𝗶𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝟮𝟳𝘁𝗵 𝗙𝗲𝗯𝗿𝘂𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲 at Studley Castle for three days/two nights at the 𝗨𝗹𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗪𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗯𝗲𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗥𝗲𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁, you’ll get the workshops, breakfasts, dinners, 60-minute massage, your own room, the ultimate time to rest, reflect and reset!  £675 per person.

Secure your place with a £100 non-refundable deposit. Monthly payment plans available. Please visit www.garrettlearning.co.uk/work-retreat for more details. Feel free to email wendy@garrettlearning.co.uk or call 07859 878 599 with any questions.

We look forward to welcoming you!

Find out more here: www.garrettlearning.co.uk/work-retreat

 

Want some help?

Garrett Learning creates welcoming, memorable, and learner-focused learning experiences to reach individual and business goals.  Book a discovery call with us to see how Garrett Learning ( www.garrettlearning.co.uk ) can help:

• Lunch and learn workshops
• Leadership and development sessions
• MHFA England Programmes Open courses
• Bespoke training
• 1:1 mentoring
• The Work and Wellbeing Retreat

Book a chat with Wendy here:  https://scheduler.zoom.us/garrettlearning/1-1-cuppa-and-chat

We (Wendy and her growing team!) are here for you when you need us. We are here to hear you! We are kind in nature and open to hearing everyone’s point of view. Our training and overall learning experiences are built to ensure you feel comfortable and can be yourself.

If you want to discuss your future plans, I’d love to hear them! Get in touch!

​m: 07859 878 599

c: https://scheduler.zoom.us/garrettlearning/1-1-cuppa-and-chat

w: www.GarrettLearning.co.uk

l: www.linkedin.com/in/wendy-garrett-7522bb50/

f: www.facebook.com/GarrettLearning

i: www.instagram.com/garrettlearning

t: www.tiktok.com/@garrettlearning

Y: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRq7TIWs7iqeaOvA3hdFN3w

 

We are * Supportive * Curious * Welcoming * Encouraging * Straightforward * We are Garrett Learning. 

Inside this month’s issue: 

• What is Burnout and how can we prevent it?
• Recruiting MHFAiders into your business – is it a voluntary role or mandatory? 
• Learn how to support others with their mental health 
• Upcoming training programme and retreats 

 

What’s been happening?

 

The first quarter of the year has flown by!  How has it been for you? 

 

This weekend we saw International Women’s Day and what a way to spend the evening by having a pamper party at home. It was extremely relaxing and we nourished our skin with Amy’s homegrown and homemade products from Naturally Grown Health. 

 

Here’s a photo of us all including Tilly the Boarder Collie who was really intrigued by the plantain in the products! 

In this month’s newsletter I wanted to share some practical tools to help prevent burnout and ways we can help support our own mental health and help others too. 

Let’s check in with ourselves and each other, are you ok? 

 

Firstly, what is the phrase ‘burnout’? 

The NHS, highlight that we can feel burnout when we experience severe stress: 

“Stress is the body’s reaction to feeling threatened or under pressure. Too much stress can affect our mood, our body and our relationships – especially when it feels out of our control. It can make us feel anxious and irritable, and affect our self-esteem. Experiencing long-term stress or severe stress can lead to feeling physical, mental and emotional exhaustion, often called burnout”. 

Here’s a snippet of my friend’s life from the month of January 2025. Let’s call her Janine. She has a new years resolution to get fit and healthy. A fitness plan has been created as well as a nutritional food plan which requires a lot of planning and preparation. Plus Janine is wanting to grow her business and has some extremely big plans (there is nothing wrong with this) and she also has two young children aged between 4 and 7. All was going to plan, however a close family member became ill and Janine added hospital visits into the daily routine whilst training to maintain ALL the new habits and look after her family and business. There is just too much going on and eventually the balls begin to drop. Some of this sound familiar?   

Stress has a physical and mental impact on our bodies: 

• Our mood changes
• We feel anxious, hopeless, worried
• Perhaps it’s difficult to make decisions, there is a lot going on, we could feel overwhelmed
• We could feel sick, dizzy, and experience stress headaches
• Skin stress rashes may present itself
• We behave differently – we might eat more or eat less / exercise more or less / could use alcohol, smoking, drugs to cope /start to withdraw from friends, family and society

Recognising the signs of stress/burnout in others and identifying this in ourselves is the first step in initiating some much needed TLC (tender loving care), self-compassion and applying new helpful strategies. 

I’m going to share some resources/tools. I appreciate we will all have different budgets within our organisation and/or community therefore, some are for free and some you will need to pay for. 

• If professional support is required, talk to your GP or visit www.hubofhope.co.uk for local mental health support services and charities. You can also self refer to NHS Talking Therapies to access councilling or therapy.
• Check out what your workplace offers and/or your partner’s workplace – family members are sometimes covered on the police
• Do they have an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) in place that offers help and support in all aspects of life? A common misconception is that the EAP will report the discussion back to the HR team. This is not correct. It will be a confidential conversation. 
• Do they have private medical insurance to enable you to engage with private services within a matter of days? 
• Is there a workplace wellbeing or mental health policy? – Take a look at how you could be supported. 
• Is there a Mental Health First Aider you could talk to?
• Identify what is in your ‘Stress Container’ . Watch the video.  
• Identify what is causing you stress
• Identify what you can control 
• Identify the stress you can’t control, does it need to be holding space in your container?
• Can you ask for help?
• Can you reframe your thoughts about what is in the container?
• Identify how you are managing the stress – is it helpful or unhelpful?
• Use of apps – Headspace, Insight Timer, Calm, Buddhify to find a way to relax, cope or meditate.
• Getting out in nature. Going for a walk, doing some gardening, cycling, a walk and talking with a friend.
• Taking a break from it all. It could be an afternoon off work, visit the cinema/theatre, go on a retreat, taking a digital detox, booking a spa day, enjoy a weekend away to a new city or escape to the countryside, or really take a good long break by taking a couple of weeks, perhaps visit a destination you’ve wanted to see.
• Leave the work laptop and phone at home. We need to let our body recharge. We don’t let our mobile phones go to 5% without plugging it in, we need to charge our own body and mind with the stuff that makes us feel good.
• Meet friends and enjoy their company. Why don’t you also try something new together? I recently went fire walking! It was very different and I met some awesome people!
• Download the app, Action for Happiness, their mission is to create a happier and kinder world together. They provide monthly calendars to promote happiness activities, you can join a local online group and engage with the various speakers who share their story and inspiration throughout the month.

Let me know your thoughts. Have you implemented any of these initiatives, what has been helpful, do you have your own success stories? We’d love to hear them. Please tag and share this with Garrett Learning and we can spread your message with others and make a bigger impact. 

 

What’s coming up?

How to the HR team recruit Mental Health First Aiders in your organisation?

Do you ask them to apply for the role? In my opinion, MHFAidiers should be a voluntary role unless your industry requires them to have the training.

We recommend that you ask your employees to volunteer for the position of Mental Health First Aider rather than making it a mandatory course. Some people might not be able to help others due to their own mental health or current situation:

We’d suggest you interview them for the position to ensure they’re the right candidate for the role. Some useful questions might be:

🔴 What initially interested you in this role?

🔴 Do you have any existing knowledge/experience working or volunteering in mental health? (This isn’t necessary but it is interesting to know if they’ve studied anything relevant or have any relevant experience)

🔴 What would you like to achieve within this role?

🔴 How can you support us in improving staff mental health?

🔴 How will you ensure you have enough time to bring to this role?

🔴 How will you ensure you take care of yourself with this additional role?

Take a look at the Garrett Learning guide to implementing Mental Health First Aiders within your organisation: https://www.garrettlearning.co.uk/2024/08/19/download-your-guide-to-implement-mental-health-first-aiders-into-your-business/

 

Do you have some people who would like to train in MHFA England Programmes? MHFA England recommends training 1 in 10 members of the team.  These are the upcoming open courses:

 

Adult Mental Health First Aid dates: 

Tuesday 1st & Wednesday 2nd April 09:30-16:30

Tuesday 22nd & Wednesday 23rd April 09:30-16:30

Tuesday 14th & Wednesday 15th May 09:30-16:30

Tuesday 3rd & Wednesday 4th June 09:30-16:30

 

Mental Health Skills for Managers:

Wednesday 16th April  13:00-17:00

 

MHFA One Day Champion:

Tuesday 15th April 09:30-16:30

 

MHFA Refresher:

Thursday 27th March 09:30-13:30

Thursday 3rd April 09:30-13:30

Wednesday 9th April 09:30-13:30

To book: Please visit: https://mhfaengland.org/public-profile/?id=53e0d92a-9711-e811-8127-e0071b664191

 

What’s new?

We weren’t going to run any more Work and Wellbeing Retreats, then two weeks ago, we went to Studley Castle, our second retreat there and before I finished my cuppa, we knew we’d be doing it again! 

Take a rest from the desk!  𝗚𝗢𝗢𝗗 𝗛𝗘𝗔𝗟𝗧𝗛 𝗜𝗦 𝗚𝗢𝗢𝗗 𝗙𝗢𝗥 𝗕𝗨𝗦𝗜𝗡𝗘𝗦𝗦!

Self-employed? Employed and embarking on change? Stuck? Curious?

Being on that hamster wheel, juggling work, new ideas, projects and life in general, it’s important to find ways to break out of this cycle, re-energise yourself and reduce burnout!

Come and join us at The Work & Wellbeing Retreat hosted by Garrett Learning.

𝗠𝗼𝗻𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝟯𝟬𝘁𝗵 𝗝𝘂𝗻𝗲 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱 at Wharton Park for ‘𝗔 𝗗𝗮𝘆 𝗔𝘄𝗮𝘆’. We’ll think differently with Wendy’s Wonderful Workshops, band some drums, enjoy a delicious afternoon tea and end our day with a pamper session! Early bird price until 31st March £165 (add discount code: 𝗘𝗔𝗥𝗟𝗬𝟯𝟬). April onwards £195 per person.

𝗦𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝟭𝟲𝘁𝗵 & 𝗠𝗼𝗻𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝟭𝟳𝘁𝗵 𝗡𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱 at Studley Castle for two days/one night at the 𝗦𝗲𝗹𝗳-𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗦𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗠𝗼𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗠𝗼𝗻𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝗥𝗲𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁. We’ll enjoy all the spa facilities including a 30-minute massage, three-course dinner, own ensuite room, buffet breakfast and some great workshops to get us thinking and doing! Early bird price until 31st March £395 (add discount code: 𝗘𝗔𝗥𝗟𝗬𝟯𝟬). April onwards £425 per person.

𝗪𝗲𝗱𝗻𝗲𝘀𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝟮𝟱𝘁𝗵 𝘁𝗼 𝗙𝗿𝗶𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝟮𝟳𝘁𝗵 𝗙𝗲𝗯𝗿𝘂𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲 at Studley Castle for three days/two nights at the 𝗨𝗹𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗪𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗯𝗲𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗥𝗲𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁, you’ll get the workshops, breakfasts, dinners, 60-minute massage, your own room, the ultimate time to rest, reflect and reset!  Early bird price until 31st March £625 (add discount code: 𝗬𝗘𝗦𝟱𝟬). April onwards £675 per person.

Secure your place with a £100 non-refundable deposit. Monthly payment plans available. Please visit www.garrettlearning.co.uk/work-retreat for more details. Feel free to email wendy@garrettlearning.co.uk or 07859 878 599 with any questions.

We look forward to welcoming you!

Want some help?

Garrett Learning creates welcoming, memorable, and learner-focused learning experiences to reach individual and business goals.  Book a discovery call with us to see how Garrett Learning ( www.garrettlearning.co.uk ) can help:

• Lunch and learn workshops
• Leadership and development sessions
• MHFA England Programmes  Open courses
• Bespoke training 
• 1:1 mentoring
• The Work and Wellbeing Retreat

 

Book a chat with Wendy here: https://scheduler.zoom.us/garrettlearning/1-1-cuppa-and-chat 

 

We (Wendy and her growing team!) are here for you when you need us. We are here to hear you! We are kind in nature and open to hearing everyone’s point of view. Our training and overall learning experiences are built to ensure you feel comfortable and can be yourself. 

If you want to discuss your future plans, I’d love to hear them! Get in touch!

​m: 07859 878 599

z: https://scheduler.zoom.us/garrettlearning/1-1-cuppa-and-chat 

w: www.GarrettLearning.co.uk

l: www.linkedin.com/in/wendy-garrett-7522bb50/ 

f: www.facebook.com/GarrettLearning 

i: www.instagram.com/garrettlearning

t: www.tiktok.com/@garrettlearning 

Y: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRq7TIWs7iqeaOvA3hdFN3w