For many people, the ongoing COVID19 situation has had an impact on their mental health and psychological well-being. According to a survey by Mind Hong Kong, over 40% reported that their mental health had worsened during the pandemic, and half of the respondents reported feeling lonely. This further raises HR concerns for employee welfare. In light of the need to enhance the awareness and understanding of mental health, October has been made ‘Mental Health Month’ to echo World Mental Health Day by Sino Group.
The ‘Mental Health Month’ project has included organising a series of initiatives to promote healthy living and psychological well-being throughout their company. One of the initiatives was an aromatherapy workshop, to encourage mind and body relaxation under the guidance of a qualified professional. There was also a ‘laughter yoga’ webinar hosted by an internationally renowned lecturer to share tips on relieving stress. A photo sharing session then took place for focusing on any happy moments during the pandemic to encourage the return of long-lost smiles. In addition to counselling hotline services, another key component is providing support and information from different charitable organisations to support colleagues’ physical and psychological well-being.
Committed to creating better lifescapes, the company structures their services in a way that respects six areas of focus: Green, Wellness, Design, Innovation, Heritage and Culture, and Community. Sub-committees have been established around the six focus areas and among which, the sub-committee of ‘wellness’ is taking the lead to ensure a healthy working and living environment for colleagues and customers. An integrated green project called ‘Farm Together’, which exemplifies the Green focus area, allows colleagues to enjoy the healing power of farming at six urban farms. Sustainability is integral to business and operations.
Ms Elaine Liu, Associate Director & CHR Officer, Sino Group said, “Employees’ well-being and health are our top priority. Happy staff, means happy customers. If we take good care of our staff, they will be able to take good care of our customers with outstanding service. By introducing “Mental Health Month”, we hope to drive awareness of mental health and psychological well-being and offer support to our colleagues.’
Paul Arkwright
Publisher
