54. Mental Health First Aid and HR with Megan Hammes

In this insightful episode, we welcome guest Megan Hammes to discuss the vital role of Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) in the workplace and its intersection with human resources. Megan shares her journey into training and launching her own business, highlighting the importance of employee well-being from an HR perspective. We explore key components of an effective employee well-being strategy, including policies, training, and access to mental health resources. Delving into the data, we discuss how workplace mental health training can reduce stigma, increase awareness, and foster supportive environments. Finally, Megan provides practical steps for implementing MHFA in your workplace, ensuring you’re equipped to create a healthier and more compassionate workplace culture. Tune in for valuable insights that can transform your organization’s approach to mental health!

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Master mental health first aid training to support your colleagues in times of need.
• Navigate the behavioral health system with confidence and ease.
• Improve workplace mental health for a happier and more productive team.
• Prevent suicide in the construction industry and create a safer work environment.
• Engage leadership in mental health initiatives to foster a supportive workplace culture.

The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:02 - Introduction to the podcast
00:06:44 - Importance of training and mental health first aid
00:10:09 - Workplace responsibility for employee well-being
00:12:43 - Supporting employees through traumatic experiences
00:13:40 - Employee growth and change
00:14:05 - Adapting to Changing Employee Needs
00:14:32 - Importance of Mental Health Awareness Training
00:15:19 - Challenges Faced by Supervisors
00:17:45 - Educating Everyone in the Organization
00:21:02 - Engaging Leadership and Implementing Policies
00:28:21 - Importance of Addressing Mental Health in the Workplace
00:29:20 - Early Recognition of Mental Health Challenges
00:30:59 - Focus on Construction and Manufacturing Industries
00:33:31 - Importance of Sleep for Self-Care
00:35:03 - Resources for Workplace Mental Health Programs 

Links:

• https://store.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/pep22-06-04-004.pdf 
• Office of the Surgeon General - Framework for Workplace Mental Health&Well Being (hhs.gov)
• Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation (hhs.gov)
• Social Media and Youth Mental Health (hhs.gov)

Connect with Megan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megan-hammes-07790a30/

Connect with us: 

https://ruralpolicypartners.com/ 

https://www.linkedin.com/linkedin.com/company/rural-policy-partners/ 

https://www.facebook.com/facebook.com/ruralpolicypartners

https://www.youtube.com/@ruralpolicypartners

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/sPoPP3doxq0