Who is a member?
Our members are the local governments of Massachusetts and their elected and appointed leadership.
An MMA webinar on June 18 discussed understanding and supporting mental health in the workplace. Speakers included Jon Mattleman, a retired municipal employee and mental health consultant, left, and Heidi Porter, Health and Human Services director in Bedford.
An MMA webinar on June 18 discussed understanding and supporting mental health in the workplace.
Jon Mattleman, a retired municipal employee and mental health consultant, offered attendees the tools necessary to identify their own mental health challenges in order to better support themselves, colleagues, and community members.
Three-quarters of U.S. workers reported at least one symptom of a mental health condition in the past year, according to MindShare Partners’ Mental Health at Work Report. Mattleman wants to break down barriers, such as shame and stigma, that prevent many individuals from accessing support and speaking about their mental health.
Mattleman shared physical and emotional signs of anxiety and depression among individuals, as well as best practices for how to support someone who may be struggling.
He discussed suicide warning signs, and specific conversation starters that can be used to broach the subject with someone who may need support. “Tell me more,” he said, are three simple words that can open up communication and help move someone toward getting assistance.
Mattleman emphasized prioritizing self care, and closed with a brief mindfulness exercise.
The webinar was offered at no cost to MMA members thanks to the sponsorship of Human Resources Services Inc.
Heidi Porter, Health and Human Services director in Bedford, moderated 15 minutes of questions and answers, addressing inquiries regarding managing anxiety during the work day and creating a workplace culture that supports self care.
• Mental Health Awareness for Staff presentation (10M PDF)