Mental health is about finding balance… Often, the ability to just listen matters the most.
We continue to hear how much mental health and wellbeing matter, both in life and at work. Andrea Björnstjerna, one of our People & Culture Manager and a mother of two, shares her perspective on what balance means, how small adjustments can make a big difference, and why daring to ask the difficult questions is one of the most powerful ways to show care.
What does mental health and wellbeing mean to you, personally and professionally?
To me, mental health is about finding balance. As a mother of two, I’ve come to realise the importance of noticing when I need to pause, reset and prioritise things that give me energy. Professionally, it’s about creating environments where people can bring their whole selves, build on empathy, and feel safe sharing what matters to them – so they can perform and grow sustainably.
Have you faced a moment or experience (at work or in life) that shaped how you think about mental health? What did you learn from it?
I’ve worked with many colleagues who have returned from stress-related leave. What I’ve learned is how much of a difference minor adjustments can make – a lighter workload for a period, a flexible schedule, or simply a manager checking in with genuine care. Mental health support doesn’t have to be complicated. Often, the ability to just listen matters the most. With some human empathy and willingness to adapt, we get really far.
What role can workplaces play in supporting mental health?
A supportive workplace culture makes a real difference. When it’s safe to talk openly about struggles, people are more likely to ask for help. HR and managers can offer tools and structure, but what matters just as much are the everyday behaviours – listening, noticing changes, and showing genuine care for your colleagues.
Workplaces will never replace professional support like psychologists or doctors. But we can create the conditions where people feel safe, supported, and able to access the help they need. That means providing flexibility, practical adjustments, and above all, a culture where mental health topics are a natural part of our day-to-day agenda.
If you could share one piece of advice or encouragement with your colleagues about mental health, what would it be?
Daring to ask the difficult questions will never make things worse – it can only open up the possibility for help. That’s the kind of courage and care we need in workplaces, too. Sometimes, the best thing we can do is simply to ask.