Two and a half hours a week. Doesn’t seem much but it could be game-changing for organisations seeking to optimise.

That was the premise of Cigna Healthcare’s 5% Pledge, which our panel of independent judges in ‘the mentl awards 2023’ named as their winner in the Outstanding contribution in healthcare to mental health category.

On the latest episode of ‘the mentl space’ podcast we sit down with Lianne Braganza D’Sylva, the Chief Marketing Officer and Customer Experience Lead at Cigna Healthcare Middle East and Africa, to dive into the inspiration for the campaign, both the personal and the professional, and the insights it has offered up.

The Pressures of Perfectionism

The podcast explores several significant moments and reflections on mental health. Lianne shares her definition of mental health, emphasising the importance of starting the day positively and being able to navigate through stress while maintaining productivity.

One key aspect discussed was the need to avoid self-judgment on challenging days and adopt a mindset that allows for a fresh start each morning. Lianne touches on her journey of self-realisation, especially in managing the pressure of perfectionism, a realisation that was prompted by her experience as a mother.

The episode also delves into the impact of external factors on mental health. She shares how her work on stress awareness campaigns and personal experiences, like supporting her mother through illness, reshaped her perspective on mental health, empathy, and understanding the struggles individuals carry beyond the surface.

Mental health challenges of the Sandwich Generation

We explore the concept of the "sandwich generation," individuals caught between caring for young children and aging parents, highlighting the unique challenges faced by expats in balancing personal and professional responsibilities across long distances.

And, of course, we discuss the importance of organisational support and flexibility for employees facing such complex situations.

This conversation underscores the critical need for organisations and individuals to actively prioritise mental health and well-being.

By acknowledging the impact of external pressures, fostering empathy, and creating supportive work environments, a culture that values mental health can be cultivated. This episode serves as a reminder of the importance of self-compassion, understanding individual challenges, and working towards a more inclusive and supportive approach to mental health in both personal and professional spheres.