How are we supporting mental health in our workplaces right now?

In the creative field, it is often joked about that the job isn’t as physically demanding as working in a mine. However, mental health can bear a heavy burden in professions like design, illustration, and photography due to long hours, tight deadlines, and pressure to produce exceptional work. As Mental Health Awareness Week approaches, it’s important to reflect on how the industry is changing to better support the well-being of its workforce.

The conversation around mental health in creative workplaces has evolved significantly in recent years, but the question remains whether meaningful changes are taking place. To explore this, creatives in the UK were asked how they and their organizations are currently addressing mental health. The insights shared highlight the importance of fostering open discussions, reevaluating working hours, formalizing support programs, and rethinking workplace culture.

Creating an environment where mental health can be openly discussed without fear of judgment is crucial. Leaders need to set an example by sharing their own experiences, as demonstrated by Katie McCambley from MullenLowe and Rachel Burrell-Cook from ThreeTenSeven. Additionally, organizations are reconsidering working hours by implementing policies like early Friday closures or transitioning to a four-day workweek to promote better work-life balance.

Many agencies are introducing structured mental health programs, such as mental health first aiders and partnerships with mental health support platforms like MYNDUP. Some are also rethinking workplace culture to prioritize psychological safety and well-being. Freelancers like Sophie O’Connor and Jack Watkins emphasize the importance of setting boundaries and embedding mental health practices into their work routines.

The industry is moving towards sustainable creative practices that prioritize mental well-being. Creative leaders are encouraged to take steps within their organizations to support mental health, whether through shorter work hours, mental health training, fostering open conversations, or experimenting with alternative workweek structures. It’s crucial for the creative industry to innovate in creating work environments where mental health is prioritized alongside creativity.