Grow Your Business Podcast

In this episode of the Grow Your Business Podcast, Daniel McCulloch, founder of Pharus Wellbeing, shares his journey from physical education teaching to establishing a mental health education and training organization, motivated by personal experiences with mental health challenges. The discussion highlights the importance of empowering individuals through mental health first aid and suicide first aid training to reduce stigma and support others effectively. Daniel emphasizes the critical need for managers to receive formal training in workplace mental health, given that 1 in 5 Australians faces mental illness annually. He introduces the ALGEE framework for mental health first aid, which provides a structured approach to initiating mental health conversations, and addresses the persistent stigma surrounding mental health issues. The interview concludes with a call for organizations to prioritize mental health support, emphasizing empathy, connection, and resilience in fostering a psychologically safe environment, while encouraging listeners to reach out to Pharus Wellbeing for further assistance.

🎙️ Introduction and Background (00:01 - 10:52)

Daniel McCulloch introduced as founder of Pharus Wellbeing

Pharus Wellbeing provides mental health education and training

Daniel's background includes physical education teaching, charity work, and living in Canada

Developed Pharus Wellbeing as a side business in 2020, went full-time in 2024

Personal experience supporting someone with mental health issues motivated Daniel's career path

🧠 Mental Health Training and Approach (10:52 - 21:25)

Pharus Wellbeing focuses on empowering and educating people to support others with mental health issues

Provides mental health first aid training and suicide first aid training

Emphasis on knowledge and education to reduce fear and stigma around mental health

Daniel shares personal experience with anxiety to illustrate the importance of understanding and support

🏢 Workplace Mental Health (21:25 - 30:54)

Discussion on the importance of mental health training in workplaces

Many managers lack formal training in supporting staff mental health issues

Statistic: 1 in 5 Australians diagnosed with common mental illness annually, 1 in 2 over a lifetime

Emphasis on the need for organizations to prioritize mental health training for leaders and managers

💡 Mental Health Conversations (30:54 - 39:45)

Importance of initiating conversations about mental health

Discussion on the challenges of feeling isolated despite having support systems

Emphasis on the power of voicing struggles to reduce internal negativity

Comparison of mental health conversations to discussing physical health issues

🔍 Mental Health First Aid Framework (39:45 - 47:48)

Introduction of the ALGEE framework for mental health first aid

A - Approach, assess, and assist with crisis

L - Listen non-judgmentally

G - Give support and information

E - Encourage professional help

E - Encourage other supports

Framework provides structure for having mental health conversations

🚧 Challenges and Stigma (47:48 - 55:05)

Discussion on the lingering stigma around mental health despite improvements

Exploration of the layers of stigma, including fear of job loss or being treated differently

Emphasis on education and understanding to combat stigma

Daniel shares personal experience with anxiety to illustrate recovery and management strategies

📊 Workplace Mental Health Regulations (55:05 - 01:07:11)

Introduction of psychosocial safety laws in Queensland

Organizations now have a duty of care to provide psychologically safe workplaces

Potential for fines and legal consequences for non-compliance

Discussion on the need for comprehensive approaches to workplace mental health, including education and policy changes

🏗️ Building Mental Health Support (01:07:12 - 01:17:41)

Comparison of mental health to physical health in terms of workplace safety

Discussion on the recent implementation of mental health safety laws in workplaces

Emphasis on the need for organizations to start somewhere in addressing mental health

Exploration of the challenges and opportunities in implementing mental health support in workplaces

🌟 Conclusion and Key Messages (01:17:41 - 01:25:52)

Emphasis on empathy, connection, and genuine care in mental health support

Quote: "A smooth sea never made a skilled sailor" - Franklin Roosevelt

Discussion on the importance of hope and resilience in facing challenges

Information provided on how to contact Pharus Wellbeing for further support and information

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