By Amanda Alajo & Hellenah Niwasiima
In the world of Public Relations (PR) and marketing, the focus on meeting tight deadlines, fulfilling client demands, and continuously generating creative ideas often overshadows the importance of mental well-being.
However, promoting mental health in these industries is crucial for sustaining long-term productivity and fostering a positive work environment.
On Thursday, NODE Group’s PR Fundi Masterclass hosted a significant online session focusing on mental well-being within the fields of PR and marketing. The session, moderated by Azadi Ash, a seasoned PR practitioner and General Manager of NODE Group, featured Rhuk-Shana Namuyimba Kitaka, a PR enthusiast, and Dr. Benedict Akimana, a psychiatrist and mental health advocate as panelists.
The X space was held in memory of the late John Babirukamu, a digital marketing expert who suffered depression and died by suicide in June 2024. The session aimed to shed light on the mental health challenges faced by professionals in PR and marketing, with many stakeholders from these fields joining to gain valuable insights.
Dr. Akimana defined mental health as a state of well-being where an individual is able to recognize and achieve their potential. He emphasized that mental health is closely linked to one’s ability to realize their capabilities and navigate their professional environment effectively.
He said that PR and marketing professionals often encounter high levels of stress, which can lead to various mental health issues, ranging from mild to severe.
Mrs Kitaka on the other hand, shared her personal experiences with mental health and discussed the strategies that helped her overcome challenges.
“Speak out. A problem shared is a problem half solved,” she said.
Mrs Kitaka stressed the importance of setting clear boundaries between work and personal life to avoid being overwhelmed.
She recommended that professionals establish a robust support structure within their workplace to prevent burnout. She also emphasized the necessity of having a safe space to retreat to during times of emotional distress to avoid an outburst of emotions.
Dr. Akimana backed Mrs Kitaka’s remarks, and further advised that individuals lacking a safe space should seek professional help.
He outlined several practices that could help mitigate mental health disorders, including regular exercise, meditation, and maintaining a balanced life between work and personal pursuits. These practices, he said, are crucial for managing stress and promoting overall mental wellness.
Several factors contribute to mental health problems, including biological factors like genetics, life experiences such as trauma or abuse, and family history of mental health issues.
Despite the prevalence of mental health issues, many people are reluctant to seek help or discuss their struggles. Stigma and discrimination play a significant role, as individuals fear being judged, misunderstood, or ostracized. Cultural and societal norms often dictate that showing vulnerability is a sign of weakness, further discouraging people from opening up.