This article explores a variety of mental health topics which some people may find triggering.
This World Mental Health Week (12 - 18 May) the theme is ‘Community’. We’re all part of a variety of different communities - families, schools, neighbourhoods, work and sometimes religious or cultural communities.
We know that one in eight people around the world currently lives with a mental health condition, and half of us will experience such a condition at some point in our lives1.
So it’s important to recognise that, within our communities, a lot of us may be struggling with our mental health at any given time. And it’s equally important to recognise that our communities can be an important part of supporting us when we’re going through difficulties.
The 2024 Fidelity Global Sentiment Survey revealed that only about half of workers in the UK say their physical and emotional health is good, and nearly half (44%) are stressed about their own or their family's mental health2.
As a direct result, the topic of managing mental health has become an important concern for many. In fact, just over half of UK workers (51%) report that taking care of their mental health has become more important over the past year.
The power of a supportive community
A supportive community can help us feel happy, safe and protected from harm and discrimination - all of which directly lead to improved mental health.
Yet despite the value of community, less than half of workers we surveyed said their personal and social life is good. And, 45% of those surveyed said relationships with family and friends have become more important to them in recent times2.
The importance of supportive relationships at work can’t be underestimated either. Positive relationships with colleagues and managers inside a work community are crucial. According to the survey, 84% of workers who were asked described having supportive relationships at work as something they felt was ‘very important’ and an important part of staying in a job.
We’re part of your community
As we observe World Mental Health Week, it's important to remember that at Fidelity, we’re part of your community. We’ve got tools and support to help you increase your financial wellness, reduce stress and improve your overall wellbeing, especially if you’re going through a tough time.
Money and your mental health
Unfortunately, finance can be a big source of stress. Our survey showed that the increasing cost of living and worries about the economy are other common causes of stress for workers in the UK.
The relationship you have with money can shape every part of your life. That's why we're here to help you feel more confident about your financial future - whether it's looking after the retirement savings in your scheme or simply building better money habits. Since money can be a big contributor to mental health issues, we have put together a list of helpful sources of support:
- Our financial wellness hub
This week might be a good time to visit our financial wellness hub to find out about little things you can do to feel better about your money and your financial future. - Extra support if you're feeling vulnerable
There are all sorts of reasons why you might feel vulnerable during your lifetime.
We can't promise we've got all the answers to life's problems, but we can promise to listen and deal with your needs sensitively and compassionately. So if you're feeling vulnerable, call us on on 0800 3 68 68 68 or email us at pensions.service@fil.com.
Read more about how we support our more vulnerable customers. - Other supportive communities
If you need wider support with your financial situation, there are plenty of expert organisations that can help.- MoneyHelper - is available for money and pension concerns.
- Step Change, Turn to Us and National Debt Adviceline - can help with any debt-related issues.
- Citizens Advice - is able to support on both money and debt queries.
Sources:
1ILC-Mind-the-age-gap-final-report.pdf
2 The Fidelity Global Sentiment Survey 2024