In this issue of the Hopebeat Weekly, we’re exploring stories, strategies, and the science behind hope—specifically, how it impacts the workplace and your overall well-being.

Mental Health Matters at Work

October 10th marks World Mental Health Day This year’s theme, “It is Time to Prioritize Mental Health in the Workplace,” calls for supportive work environments that foster well-being. As a representative at the United Nations for the World Federation for Mental Health, I feel extra passionate that companies around the world take notice and act. 

A recent study by UAMS indicated 53% of parents surveyed were missing a day of work a month due to their child’s mental health, so it is now not just a matter of an employee’s mental health impacting bottom lines, as the employees’ children must be healthy as well. This is costly, impacts productivity, and makes it even clearer mental health impacts all aspects of society.

Tsuyoshi Akiyama, WFMH President, states, “Mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety, are pervasive in workplaces globally, impacting productivity, attendance, and overall performance. When left untreated, the staggering economic cost is estimated at US$1 trillion annually by the WHO.”

WFMH Secretary-General Professor Gabriel Ivbijaro MBE JP adds, “The 2024 World Mental Health Day theme provides an opportunity to rekindle our efforts to promote global citizenship and mental health awareness. Investing in mental health is not just compassionate—it is a strategic business decision that benefits everyone.”

Visit wmhdofficial.com to learn more about how you can get involved for October 10th.

Activate Hope in the Workplace

As hope is a protective factor for anxiety, depression, violence, and addiction, it is a key strategy for addressing workplace mental health.

Hopelessness is the primary symptom of depression and a key symptom of anxiety, and hope is teachable. Hope is also one of the four basic needs in Strength-Based Leadership. Employees with higher levels of hope are more motivated to set and pursue goals, while having the skills to maintain a positive mindset and overcome challenges in the face of setbacks. Activate hope in your workplace today. 

Join the Stress and Burnout Summit 2024

Speaking of workplace mental health, The Stress and Burnout Summit goes live on October 16, 2024. Join our very own Kathryn Goetzke and 36 of the world’s most trusted mental health experts, therapists, innovators and healers in the 2024 Stress and Burnout Summit who will teach you the strategies, tools and practices to manage your stress, prevent and recover from burnout, build your resilience and optimize your mental wellness and live happier and less stressed lives. Kathryn shares how hope relates to burnout, why hope has been shown to be more effective than just mindfulness, and how to start practicing the Shine Hope Skills.  Join Free here.

The Power of Movement and Hope, featuring Marisa Hamamoto

How can movement inspire hope and transform lives? In our latest episode of The Hope Matrix Podcast, Marisa Hamamoto, Founder and Artistic Director of Infinite Flow, an inclusive dance company, shares her incredible Shine Hope Story. After surviving a spinal cord infarction that changed her life, Marisa discovered the power of dance in promoting emotional positivity and inclusivity. Hear her insights on overcoming challenges, embracing diversity, and the joy of movement. She is an incredible advocate, and even brings this work to workplaces, so if interested reach out to her to find out about how to be a more inclusive and engaged workplace. Listen to the full podcast episode and read her Shine Hope Story here.

Introducing: The Hope Matrix Podcast on Campus

We’re thrilled to announce the launch of The Hope Matrix Podcast, tailored specifically for college students! Hosted by The Shine Hope Company’s Community Hope Activator, Avery Peel, this special podcast series will feature expert guests who will discuss key topics designed to help college students navigate their college journey with hope. Subscribe and follow our channels to receive updates when the first episode drops. Stay tuned!