Why mental wellbeing is the foundation of everything we do - Gahee’s perspective

For many people, mental health is something they think about when challenges arise. For Gahee, it's something we should think about every day.

Working in HR has given her a unique perspective on the role wellbeing plays in people's lives. She has seen firsthand how a person's mental health can influence their confidence, relationships, performance, and overall quality of life. It's one of the reasons she chose to become a Mental Health First Aider.

"I believe people are an organisation's most valuable asset," she says. "I wanted to be equipped to listen, help, and connect people with the right resources so they can recover and thrive."

For Gahee, becoming a Mental Health First Aider wasn't about having all the answers. It was about helping create an environment where people feel comfortable reaching out and know that support is available when they need it.

Looking at resilience differently

Resilience is often associated with pushing through challenges and staying strong under pressure. While those qualities are important, Gahee believes resilience is about much more than simply enduring difficulties.

To her, resilience is the ability to adapt, reflect, and respond positively to life's challenges. Rather than ignoring emotions or pretending everything is fine, she believes true resilience comes from building a strong inner foundation and taking care of your wellbeing before problems arise.

"Mental health is not just one aspect of our wellbeing. It is the foundation that supports both our professional and personal lives."

This mindset has shaped not only how she approaches challenges herself, but also how she supports colleagues throughout their own journeys.

The importance of empathy and support

One of the lessons Gahee has learned throughout her career is that small acts of support can have a significant impact.

Whether it's a colleague checking in, a manager asking how you're doing, or simply knowing there is someone willing to listen, those moments help people feel valued and supported.

"I really appreciate it when colleagues and managers regularly check in on how I'm doing and let me know that I can speak up whenever I need support."

She believes empathy plays a critical role in creating these kinds of environments. Every person experiences situations differently, and taking the time to understand another person's perspective can strengthen relationships, improve collaboration, and help build a culture where people feel respected and understood.

For Gahee, empathy is more than a workplace skill. It's a foundation for meaningful human connection.

Support should start before a crisis

One message Gahee feels strongly about is that people shouldn't wait until challenges become overwhelming before seeking support.

As a Mental Health First Aider, she hopes employees know they can reach out with concerns both big and small. Sometimes simply talking through a challenge can help provide clarity, reassurance, or a new perspective. In other cases, it can help connect someone with additional support resources such as the Employee Assistance Programme (EAP).

Her goal is simple: to help people feel supported before problems become larger than they need to be.

The foundation for success

Prioritizing wellbeing has helped Gahee become more focused, resilient, and effective in her own career. Looking after her mental and physical health allows her to better navigate challenges, support others, and maintain a positive perspective during busy periods.

That's why she believes wellbeing should never be treated as an afterthought.

When people feel supported, connected, and able to bring their whole selves to work, they are far more likely to thrive both professionally and personally.

For Gahee, the message is simple: Mental wellbeing isn't just part of success. It's the foundation that makes success possible.

If you're looking for a workplace that values wellbeing, supports personal growth, and encourages people to bring their best selves to work, explore our current opportunities and discover where a career at AtkinsRéalis could take you.