A new member of LSL Group’s senior management team has shared her deeply personal journey to emotional wellbeing for the latest video in the Mortgage Industry Mental Health Charter (MIMHC) interview series.
Emma Hollingworth attributes her mental health challenges to workplace stress combined with personal life-changing events and hopes her candour will inspire others working in the mortgage sector as well as employers looking to implement appropriate support.
Emma talked to MIMHC Co-founder and Group Sales Director at Crystal Specialist Finance, Jason Berry, as part of the not-for-profit organisation’s latest “Keeping the Mental Health Conversation Going” video. The forum provides a platform for industry leaders to share insights and strategies for promoting best practice mental wellbeing in the workplace.
During a 30-year career in the mortgage industry, Emma has noticed her mental wellbeing falter on several separate occasions and has learned to take a proactive approach when this occurs.
“We work in a highly pressurised sector, and I now know how essential it is to take care of your physical health as well as your mental health in order to be your best self,” explained Emma, who began working as LSL Group's Chief Distribution Officer earlier this month (October).
“There are frequently several factors that combine to impact your emotional wellbeing, and I personally found the onset of the menopause a trigger, as I was that young I didn’t realise it was the menopause but it really did affect my mental health. On that occasion, I became physically unable to function and wanted to retreat from everyday life which I now recognise to have been a form of burnout.
“But I’ve learned from these experiences and now know it’s essential to realise when you’re not coping, be absolutely honest with yourself and take appropriate action.”
In MIMHC’s new video, Emma cites rest combined with exercise as key components of her recovery.
“For me, hot-pod yoga and rural walks with my dog prove immensely beneficial to my mental health,” adds Emma.
“I’m also a firm believer in the importance of frank conversations with colleagues - including your company’s mental health advocate or HR team - as well as with trusted friends on those occasions when it’s necessary.”
MIMHC’s "Keep the Mental Health Conversation Going" series was established to inspire positive change and create supportive work environments where individuals feel comfortable seeking help and support.
MIMHC was established to create a culture of openness and compassion within the mortgage industry by spreading a message of support and understanding while initiating meaningful discussions.
Jason Berry said: “This is the first time in one of MIMHC’s videos that an interviewee has discussed openly the clear links between good mental health and her physical wellbeing.
"When there’s a daily focus on delivering the right solution for others, it's essential to focus on your own mental and physical wellbeing if you’re to be your best self.
“Being honest with yourself and others and knowing that you’ll be listened to and provided with appropriate support are essential components of good mental health - and the continued success of our sector."
