When more than a dozen co-workers do it, it's bound to get conversations started.
That's the aim for Communities staff in the Work Health and Safety (WHS) Directorate, who have added brightly coloured shirts to their wardrobe to shine some light on issues surrounding mental health.
The shirts are from social enterprise, TradeMutt, which uses the eye-catching workwear to ‘help make an invisible issue impossible to ignore’.
Workplace Safety Principal Consultant Maree Smith said WHS staff wore their shirts for the first time recently.
“I had quite a few side glances from people as I was making my way to work, but it was awesome to see the team here wearing their shirts,” she said.
“The shirts are designed to be a conversation starter. People see the bright colours and loud pattern – they stand out. Then they may see the wording ‘This is a conversation starter’ on the back of the shirt, or initials on the front pocket, ‘YNWA’, which stand for You'll Never Walk Alone.
“It's about bringing light to the subject of mental health, which can often lead people to experiencing dark times.”
Maree said the directorate jumped at the chance to use the shirts to help highlight the important issue and a key focus for the team this year.
“The psychological wellbeing of all Communities employees is a strong focus for us this year,” she said.
“We all have challenges, both at work and home, so we are encouraging staff to prioritise their health and wellbeing in everything they do.
“This can also extend to the wellbeing of our clients, contractors, volunteers, visitors and all who may be affected by our work.”
This is a subject close to Maree's heart.
“I lost my sister to suicide about 14 years ago,” she said.
“As a family member, I didn't know her struggles. Campaigns such as R U OK? Day were not as well-known back then, so the subject of mental health wasn't something we spoke about.
“For me, wearing the shirt helps make people aware that they can talk about these issues. There shouldn't be a dark stigma around mental health; it doesn't have to be hidden.
“It's about letting people know they don't have to go through things alone. It's also a reminder for everyone to be aware of how each of us is feeling.”
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