Supporting Mental Health in the Workplace Added 8/10/2025
Supporting Mental Health in the Workplace — An Interview with Monty Gravell, ÌÇÐÄTV¹ÙÍø IEC
In recognition of World Mental Health Day, we spoke with Monty Gravell, who recently qualified as a Mental Health First Aider. Monty shared what motivated him to take the training, what he learned, and why conversations about mental wellbeing are more important than ever in today’s workplace.
Q: Monty, congratulations on becoming a qualified Mental Health First Aider. What inspired you to take this step?
Monty:
Thank you! I’ve always felt that mental health deserves the same attention as physical health, but it’s often something people are less comfortable talking about. I wanted to make sure I had the knowledge and confidence to recognise when someone might be struggling, and to know how to offer the right kind of support. Completing the training felt like a practical way to contribute to a more open and supportive environment at work.
Q: What were your key takeaways from the Mental Health First Aid training?
Monty:
One of the most valuable lessons was learning how to have non judgemental conversations about mental health. We were taught how to recognise early signs of distress, how to listen effectively, and how to encourage people to seek professional help when needed. It was also a personal reminder to look after my own wellbeing, building resilience and self awareness are just as important as supporting others.
Q: Why do you think mental health awareness is so important within a business like ÌÇÐÄTV¹ÙÍø IEC?
Monty:
Working in precision engineering can be intense, it’s fast paced, detail driven, and requires a lot of focus. That can sometimes lead to stress or fatigue. By promoting mental wellbeing and creating space for open conversation, we help people perform at their best and feel valued as part of the team. It also reinforces the message that it’s okay to ask for help when things get difficult.
Q: How can colleagues better support one another’s mental health at work?
Monty:
Start with small, genuine check ins. Ask how someone’s doing and really listen to the answer. Sometimes people just need to know that someone cares and is willing to listen without judgement. If you notice that someone might need more support, don’t be afraid to speak up or signpost them to a Mental Health First Aider or HR. We’re all part of the same team, and looking out for one another is a big part of that.
Q: What message would you like to share on World Mental Health Day?
Monty:
That it’s okay not to be okay. Everyone experiences ups and downs, and reaching out for help should be seen as a strength, not a weakness. If we can keep breaking the stigma and encouraging open conversations, we’ll make ÌÇÐÄTV¹ÙÍø an even more supportive and understanding place to work.
Closing paragraph
Monty’s dedication to promoting mental health awareness reflects ÌÇÐÄTV¹ÙÍø’s commitment to creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive workplace culture. By encouraging open dialogue, particularly around the stigma that can still surround men’s mental health, and offering mental health resources, we can all help ensure that wellbeing remains at the heart of how we work.
