World Mental Health Day: Hear From an MHFA
10 October 2026
Bagnalls understands the importance of positive mental health – both at work and in all other areas of life. One of our core company values is Our People, so we’re always striving to find new ways to support our colleagues, helping them feel their best throughout their career with us.
This is just one of the reasons why we have designated Mental Health First Aiders (MHFAs) at each and every Bagnalls branch: a friendly face who is here to lend an ear to anyone who feels they need to chat. Whether that’s as simple as a cup of tea and a catch up, or a colleague needs signposting to more structured support, our MHFAs are always on hand.
This World Mental Health Day, we’re chatting to Joanne Gualda, our Group Marketing Director and a trained MHFA. Find out what she has to say about becoming an MHFA and the importance of opening up a conversation around the topic of mental health.
How important is good mental health to you?
Joanne: “Good mental health is crucial to me because it impacts every aspect of life – personal happiness, relationships and work performance. Maintaining mental wellbeing is essential for people to cope with the stresses and strains of everyday life. If someone is suffering with poor mental health, it can have a massive impact on their lives, especially if they have no one to talk to or cannot get support when needed.”
Why did you decide to become an MHFA?
Joanne: “I decided to become a MHFA back in 2019. A colleague of mine was advocating for the benefits of becoming one before mental health was really on the workplace agenda. I wanted to actively support colleagues, encourage conversations, and create a workplace atmosphere where mental health is openly discussed and prioritised.
“It’s important to have trained people who can recognise the signs early and guide those in need to appropriate help. I am pleased to say there are now MHFAs at every branch of Bagnalls.
“Being a MHFA does not make me an expert, but hopefully provides me with the skills to listen to anyone who needs to talk and signpost them in the right direction if more support is needed.”
How else does Bagnalls support colleagues towards positive mental health?
Joanne: “Bagnalls supports positive mental health through various initiatives, including comprehensive wellbeing programmes, access to external counselling services, mental health awareness training and fostering an open culture, where colleagues feel safe to share and seek help. We also encourage a healthy work-life balance and regular communication.”
Why is awareness of mental health so important?
Joanne: “Mental health awareness is vital because it helps with the early identification of issues, reduces stigma and misunderstanding, and promotes empathy and support. Awareness empowers people to seek help sooner and contributes to creating inclusive and compassionate workplaces.”
What should someone do if they are struggling with worries, anxiety or difficult thoughts?
Joanne: “Reach out for support – whether talking to a trusted colleague or friend, a MHFA or professional counselling services. It’s important to acknowledge feelings openly and not to suffer in silence. Developing coping strategies and seeking help early can make a significant difference.”
How can we support a colleague who we think might be struggling with their mental health?
Joanne: “By offering a listening ear, encouraging them to talk about their feelings without judgment and signposting them to appropriate resources, like our Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) or other external agencies.
“It’s important to show empathy, respect their confidentiality, and gently encourage professional support if needed.”
“I would encourage anyone to become a MHFA. Just making yourself approachable and knowing you are there for people when needed can mean a lot to colleagues, friends and family. Remember you don’t have to be highly trained in mental health – as long as you are happy to be there and to listen, that’s enough!”