Mental Health in the Marketing Industry
Working in marketing can be a challenging and demanding profession – and in light of a recent tragedy in the marketing community of Plymouth, Dave Briggs (of Nash & Co Solicitors, and Founder of Building Brands) and Alan Stokes (Owner and Director of Horizon Counselling Services) have decided to take action.
Marketing professionals are under constant pressure to come up with innovative and impactful ideas, meet tight deadlines, and deliver results. This constant pressure can take a toll on one’s mental health, and it’s becoming an increasingly important issue in the marketing industry. Marketing professionals are known for their creative thinking, strategic planning, and excellent communication skills, but all of these responsibilities can also lead to burnout, anxiety, and depression. The fast-paced nature of the industry, long hours, and high stress levels can all contribute to poor mental health.
Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has only exacerbated the problem. With remote work becoming the norm, many marketing professionals are finding it difficult to separate work and personal life, leading to even more stress and burnout. Furthermore, the pandemic has created an uncertain economic climate, adding more stress to already challenging work conditions. It’s crucial for marketing professionals to prioritize their mental health and well-being. This can be achieved through self-care practices such as exercise, meditation, and spending time with loved ones. Taking regular breaks and disconnecting from work can also be beneficial. Additionally, seeking support from a mental health professional, such as a therapist or counsellor, can be very helpful in managing stress and anxiety… and yet so few people do seek the help that they need.
In this interview, Andi discusses the upcoming events which Alan and Dave are putting on to resolve this issue, but also the stigma that still remains (although decreasing over time) in admitting to yourself, to your peers, and especially to your boss, that you need help with your mental health.
The employer’s role in mental health
Employers also have a role to play in promoting mental health in the workplace. Providing a supportive work environment, promoting work-life balance, and offering mental health resources can all make a positive impact on the mental health of marketing professionals. As Alan explains in our interview, fewer than 9% of marketing professionals have these safeguards and go-to options available in their workplace.
Mental health is such an important issue for people working in the marketing industry that it’s important for both individuals and employers to prioritize mental health and take steps to promote well-being in the workplace. By taking care of our mental health, we can ensure a healthier and more productive work environment for everyone.
“Mental Health for Marketing” events – how to get involved
The first of these events took place in Plymouth early in February 2023, however there are still two more to attend, with a nominal charge of £5 per person, with all proceeds going to the mental health charity, Mind.
Cornwall – Event information and booking here! This will be at the Lost Gardens of Heligan, on Feb 21st.
Exeter – Event information and booking here! At the Hotel Indigo, Feb 22nd.
If you can’t attend – there are suggestions from Alan in the interview for other places you may access support and help for your mental health, but in addition please do share this post around to so that others who might find it useful can hear about it and get involved.
