The 2019 CIPD Health and Wellbeing at Work Report reports that mental ill health and stress remain the top causes of long-term sickness absence. At Queen's, we are committed to providing a supportive and compassionate working environment for all of our staff - one where people feel comfortable to be themselves to work, to talk openly about the things that are happening in their lives and to seek support, advice and information to help balance competing daily demands.

As part of this commitment, we are celebrating Mental Health Awareness Week, which takes place from Monday 13 - Friday 17 May 2019. Throughout the week, there will be a wide range of events and seminars held across campus covering topics such as cyber bullying, the importance of sleep and the role of mental health nurses. We'll also be launching our annual Pedometer Challenge, offering staff the chance to take time away from their work to enjoy a range of holistic therapies or a tour of Botanic Gardens, and holding a 'Purple Picnic' with our partners in Action Mental Health to encourage you to make connections, socialise with colleagues and friends, and take time out to talk. 

A number of high profile speakers will join us for a special lunchtime seminar on Thursday to share their personal experiences with mental health. Alongside some of our own Queen's staff members, our panellists include former GAA star, Oisin McConville, who will discuss his experience with gambling addiction, and Cool FM's Paulo Ross, sharing his story caring for his mum when she developed mental ill health. 

Staff and students can also visit the vast range of information stands from our charity partners such as Aware, Inspire NI, Parenting NI and The Samaritans. These will be exhibiting in the Peter Froggatt Centre throughout Thursday with tailored information and support available for all. 

We'll finish the week with a very special performance from our own Staff Wellbeing Choir on Friday - it's not be missed! 

You can click here for an overview of everything on offer during Mental Health Awareness Week and to book your place on any of the ticketed events. Please note, spaces are limited and will be awarded on a first come, first served basis.