anyone here work in retail?

You’re most unhappy customers are you’re greatest source of learning :ok_hand:

Sounds like you've had some interesting experiences @jamesle2015 @Former-Member

How do you find working in retail when things are tough mental health wise?

Well basically you have to fake it until you make it when you are going through personal things @Former-Member Talk & invest in the client, avoid talking about yourself & you’re problems. It’s about the client or customer..

That sounds so difficult @Former-Member. I imagine it requires a really good ability to manage your emotions which can be quite tough to do. Is that something you can relate to too @jamesle2015? What did you find helpful in being able to manage emotions in that environment?

Sometimes though I haven’t been able to control it. A couple of times I have had flashbacks then balled my eyes out after leaving the treatment. Some clients talk about their experiences which I can relate to if they have had similar trauma. It’s very hard.

I used to be able to work on make clients now though I ask the girls if they can do it which makes me feel guilty but I just can’t now @Former-Member

Male*

It's really scary to have those experiences at work @Former-Member. It's impossible to manage our emotions 100% of the time too and I actually think you've demonstrated a lot of wisdom there in knowing your limits and asking your colleagues for help when you need it. What kinds of things do you think people working in retail can do to support their colleagues experiencing mental health issues?

Ask how they are feeling @Former-Member & if there is anything they can do to help with less judgement. Be a friend not just a worker, be willing to be a team player to help the work place run more effectively and if an employee does open up to you and tell you personal things they may be experiencing keep it confidential, don’t run their mouth because they haven’t experienced it or have the same mental illness! 👍

That’s something I have wanted to get out of my system for quite a while lol so thank you @Former-Member

Some really wise words there @Former-Member and important to get it outside of yourself too. That compassion and non-judgement is such a key ingredient. One kind and understanding person at work can make al the difference - although that should be the norm and not the exception!

I like some of the resources on mental health at work provided by Beyond Blue on their headsup website. I do hope that 'mental health literacy' in the workplace improves over time. Thanks for sharing your experience in retail 🛍