May is Mental Health Awareness Month! This month, the ALKrew is spreading awareness and emphasizing the importance of mental health in partnership with State of Mind Employee Resource Group (ERG). This ERG opens the conversation around mental health and wellness in hopes of fostering supportive connection and eliminating any potential stigma in the workplace. Without further ado, we introduce our next spotlight: Senior Director, Kayla Morrison! Kayla is a member of the amazing State of Mind. Check out her answers below!
How does State of Mind positively impact the ALKrew in the workplace/outside?
State of Mind has created a safe space for employees to come and share quite literally whatever is on their mind. While most meetings technically have topics, we are really open to taking the discussion wherever members need it to go that day. We end every meeting on a positive note whether that’s writing down three things we are grateful for, practicing deep breathing exercises or sharing something coming up that we are excited about.
What is one thing you wish more people knew about State of Mind?
Anyone is welcome to join!!! You don’t need to be suffering from a mental illness. The only thing that we ask is that you are open to discussion and respectful of other members.
What is your favorite mental health / positive influencer/celebrity?
Something I did a while back was unfollow a lot of celebrities and influencers on social media. I found that it was negatively impacting my own mental health to constantly compare myself and my life to the unrealistic expectations that they portray on social media. Instead, I follow many accounts that post videos of animals doing cute or silly things because that’s what makes me happy these days.
What was the thought behind State of Mind?
Over the last few years there has been a big push for companies to focus on mental health. For me, it is something that has always been top of mind and over the years I have gotten more comfortable talking about my own struggles. I wanted to create a space where others could get to this point as well. I wanted to create an environment of support so that people never have to feel alone. I feel extremely proud to work at a company that allows a group like this to exist.
Thank you, Kayla for taking the time to answer some questions and showing the importance of Mental Health Awareness Month!