Jeremy O’Dwyer, survived a suicide attempt in 2010 after years living with depression. Jeremy now shares his experience to…
Jeremy’s career spans over forty years in both public and private sectors, including many years working in export sales. Following redundancy, he eventually started a new career as a member of staff within the police service. Because of his own lived experience, Jeremy became particularly interested in mental health in the workplace.
He now puts his knowledge and understanding to good use, promoting mental health awareness issues in the workplace.
How you can make a difference…
Reduce stigma
Stigma, “a mark of shame”. One simple word does so much damage for those with poor mental
health. Ranging from labelling people to outright discrimination and is frequently fuelled by how the
press report mental illness. The courses offered, challenge stigma enabling delegates see the
damage that stigma can do and what they can do to counter the effects and create a more
supportive environment.
Inform
The awareness courses consider the broad range of factors that may lead to poor mental health and
how that translates into day to day living. For example, how poor health may disadvantage
individuals in terms of education, employment opportunities and personal relationships. These
courses are not designed “to fix” people’s problems, but simply provide greater understanding and
empathy and therefore better equipped to listen, support and signpost.
Encourage communication
The courses offered aim to improve positive communication both for people with poor mental
health as well as society generally. Fear is a major barrier and forms the basis of people being scared
to ask for help and others not knowing what to say or becoming too involved.
An understanding of what people with poor mental health are going through is a big step forward in
breaking down communication obstacles.