Mental health conditions can have a significant impact on all areas of life, including school or work performance, relationships with friends and family, and ability to participate in the community. However, many may avoid talking about a topic such as mental health due to the stigma surrounding it.
Our #RitchieCares Mental Health and Well-Being Peer Support Group was created to help normalize issues related to mental health – whether it’s anxiety, feeling low, or just trying to balance work and life in a way that feels good – and to provide a safe environment where colleagues can share perspectives and feelings and support each other on their mental wellness journeys.
The #RitchieCares group spreads awareness about mental health with initiatives, company communications, and monthly meetings where members share successes and advice.
Talking about mental health helps remove the stigma surrounding it so that those that need support feel more comfortable asking for it, and it also promotes an environment where we all engage with curiosity, empathy, and compassion as opposed to judgement.
To help bring light to and further normalize discussing a topic as important as mental health (and health and wellness in general), a few of our #RitchieCares members share their own stories below, including why they value Ritchie Bros.’ focus on health and well-being.
Stefan Buski – Employee Experience Specialist (pictured above with son, Ben)
Mental health and well-being, and health and wellness in general, is important to me for many reasons, but the main one is my son. After my previous battles with depression, I truly understand how essential a healthy mind and body is for being the father I want to be – and for me to be the best version of me that I can be. I’ve also learned that it’s crucial to be open about your health when you’re struggling. By connecting with others, it leads to solutions and comfort as you realize you’re not alone.
One of the best things about my 10 years at Ritchie Bros. has been the extended family of support here whenever I need it. They’ve been there for me through some really tough times and the organization has allowed me the flexibility needed to deal with any personal and other matters that can impact my well-being. And a key part of me receiving that support is because I felt comfortable enough to talk about my issues. I am grateful for that open, accepting, and non-judgmental environment at Ritchie Bros. and for the sense of camaraderie we have here amongst colleagues.
Olivia Common – Total Rewards Administrator
When I’m experience health or well-being issues, it negatively affects other aspects of my life. Staying healthy can mean different things to different people, but for me it means taking time for myself, eating well, resting, and visiting with family.
I’ve only been at Ritchie Bros. for a few months, but I’ve already felt huge support from the company. The senior leaders here are very committed to supporting our well-being. My manager has made it known I can go to them with any issues, personal or professional. They also explained the Employee Assistance Program which is a complimentary service provided to all colleagues and their immediate family members to support safety, health, and well-being. Anytime I have started to feel overwhelmed with anything, they have created a safe place for me to go to them. In addition, through our #RitchieCares community, employees are comfortable coming forward with their struggles so that the appropriate support can be provided.
Having senior leaders involved with these initiatives is very important. It makes it clear that supporting colleagues is a top priority at the organization – not only regarding work-related matters, but personal matters as well. It shows they care about us as a whole person and the result is that everyone is motivated and engaged. I’m finding it a really nice environment to be in overall.
Jeff Koehler – Inspection Report Coordinator
As a parent of a two-year-old girl, it is incredibly important to me that she sees me as a strong, loving, and healthy father. I feel this helps her to develop emotional intelligence and become who she wants to be free of any limitations. The supportive environment I’m in at Ritchie Bros. helps me to be the healthy person I want her to see.
When I was suffering from depression and anxiety, I forced myself to open up at work and communicate the issues I was having, and I was overwhelmed (in a good way) by the outpouring of support I received from my colleagues and the organization. Ultimately, I chose to step down from a management role because it was the best decision for mental health. When I made this decision, I’m grateful I was offered another role at Ritchie Bros. where I can still mentor staff while allowing myself the time to deal with any issues I may experience. This change in role invigorated me, made me believe I was not alone on this journey, and supported me in doing what I needed to focus on my well-being.
I have since joined the #RitchieCares community where we meet once a month to discuss strategies for dealing with mental health, share stories, and connect with people who have experienced or may be experiencing similar situations. Focusing on your mental health has the power to create a life of abundance and it’s great having an employer who recognizes and support this..
Thank you to Stefan, Olivia, and Jeff for sharing their stories and for helping to bring attention to such an important topic. And thank you to the broader #RitchieCares community for offering support to one another and all colleagues across Ritchie Bros., for emphasizing the importance of taking time to focus on you and your well-being, and for fostering an environment of caring, compassion, and empathy.