`PUTTING on your own oxygen mask first' is an often cited blueprint for being able to help others during a crisis, and it is a maxim being followed today by public servants dealing with some of society's most vulnerable during the pandemic.
To mark World Mental Health Day Probation Board NI (PBNI) has invited staff to take part in a virtual event to promote positive mental health and wellbeing.
Officers have been prioritising support to offenders who were vulnerable and had mental health difficulties during the Covid-19 period - particularly during the months of intensive restrictions.
PBNI lead psychologist Twylla Cunningham said isolation and restrictions on travel and movement had the potential to affect many people they are working with.
"More than 70 per cent of people on probation suffer from addictions and poor mental health. We therefore put in place additional support including increasing our contact and supervision during this period," she said.
"As well as delivering psychological services and intervention to those on probation, it is equally important that we look after each other. Therefore psychology staff are holding an event for all staff focussing on the theme of ‘masks’ to promote wellbeing and good mental health.”
Organised by PBNI Assistant Psychologists Stephen Caldwell and Rachel Whann, the online event will look at how people often `mask' true feelings and the importance of being open and honest and seeking help when needed.
"Nowadays masks represent protection, however, sometimes they can be something we put on to hide how we really feel," Mr Caldwell said.
"It's so important at this time that protect our physical health with masks, but we also need to remember to take our `masks' off and talk to protect our mental health.
"The PBNI event is an opportunity for staff to promote wellbeing and explore innovative approaches to protect our mental health whilst we continue to journey through the Covid-19 pandemic.
"We want to acknowledge those suffering with poor mental health and the pressure to mask it for the world. Now in a climate were masks are essential, we
want to break the stigma and promote positive mental health along the way."
Ms Whann said there is "no doubt that this year has been exceptionally hard for everyone" and it has "placed more pressure on so many aspects of life and it is so easy to feel pressure to always be coping".
"The virtual event on Friday will highlight that and provide a platform to reflect on our own mental health and get some tips on how we can manage better."
