This week, The Water Cooler caught up with National Health and Wellbeing Manager, Kathy Fernandez. Kathy works tirelessly to create a safe and happy work environment for all Paramount employees. And it goes without saying that her role has been more than a little challenging since our world was turned upside down by Covid. And did you know she’s a qualified psychologist? Let’s find out what makes Kathy tick!
What do you think is important to have in the workplace to help support employees manage mental health?
Psychological Safety! Which means having a work environment that supports you to be yourself, contribute, take risks and speak up.
What do you do to check in with yourself and look after your own mental health?
Reflect! On the days I work in the office I have a lengthy commute home, so I use that time to reflect on the day (what went well, what could I have done differently, what did I learn from the day) and sometimes use a mindfulness app (with my earphones in on the quiet carriage!). Doing this means that by the time I walk through the front door at home to my family, I am present for them and not still thinking about work etc. On the days I work from home, I will often go for a walk to do the same thing – reflect. For me, being out in nature is what recharges my battery, so you will often find me out bushwalking/hiking somewhere in my spare time or on holidays.
People may not know this about you but you’re a qualified psychologist! What made you want to move into your role?
I’m a people person. I’m always drawn to roles that enable me to interact and support others and also allow me to have a whole of business impact. As a psychologist working in the work, health and safety (WHS) space, I’m able to bring a unique perspective of mental health into the traditional WHS space.
Do you have any resources you’d recommend to people when it comes to looking after their mental health?
Most people are aware of apps that are available to support wellbeing (Headspace, Calm etc), however one of the greatest (free) resources many of us have available is family and friends to chat with. Having open conversations on a regular basis with trusted loved ones and friends supports our mental health and grows those relationships. On the topic books, I’m currently reading “Why We Sleep” by Matthew Walker. Sleep is KEY to support our physical, emotional and mental health (I’m still working on the mythical 8 hours of sleep!).
What do you think Paramount does well in the Health and Wellbeing space, and what would you like to see in the future?
When I first started with Paramount ANZ in January 2019 one of the first things I noticed was that we felt like a family business that has grown. The genuine care that people showed for their colleagues in the workplace was so evident, and that’s what makes it a special place. We have support options available for our people through their managers, our EAP, Ginger, Thrive and online resources, however we will be working with the broader Paramount Team to explore additional ways to support employee wellbeing in the coming months.
