NAMI Leads by Example on Workplace Mental Health with Third Annual ‘Rest Up Week’

Posted on June 29, 2023

Arlington, Va. — For the third straight year, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is giving its employees a paid “Rest Up Week” from July 3–7, 2023, to support their self-care and promote workplace wellness. Rest Up Week emphasizes the importance of mental health in the workplace, setting a model NAMI hopes other organizations will adopt.

“Taking this week for self-care will benefit our team’s mental health and overall wellness,” said Daniel H. Gillison Jr., CEO of NAMI. “Whether they are taking a walk, practicing mindfulness or just unplugging for a bit, it’s essential that our employees can take care of themselves.”

Rest Up Week aligns with NAMI’s StigmaFree Company initiative, which encourages employers to commit to tangible steps to support their workers’ mental health. It challenges organizations to offer benefits designed to reduce stress and foster a more supportive and caring culture.

“We are challenging employers to make mental health the highest of priorities,” Gillison said. “Not only can it improve workers’ well-being, but it can also enhance their productivity and job satisfaction. Supporting mental health isn’t just the right thing to do — it’s also a smart business decision.”

Promoting workplace wellness isn’t only for employers — it’s for everyone. NAMI is urging people to sign up at nami.org/restupweek for information on what they can do to advocate for mental health support and to start conversations with leaders within their own organizations.

“Rest Up Week is a testament to NAMI’s commitment to foster a culture of well-being, as every workplace should. We invite everyone from the C-suite to the factory floors to sign up for this cause.”

NAMI’s social media channels and other communications will “go silent” during Rest Up Week. However, except for the Fourth of July, NAMI’s HelpLine will continue to operate during its normal hours — weekdays from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Eastern Time — ensuring that support is still available to those in need. Call 1-800-950-NAMI (6264), text “HelpLine” to 62640 or visit nami.org/help.
 

The National Alliance on Mental Illness is the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to improving the lives of individuals and families affected by mental illness.

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