Depression & Mental Health In the World of Accountancy

Andy Salkeld is a former accountant (Big 4), corporate financier and business intelligence specialist who seemed to have it all. But Andy lives with depression and has been suicidal. Now an investor co-owner of a small business, he speaks and writes openly about mental health and depression in professional life. Shownotes: How we often introduce ourselves as what we do, not who we are, which doesn't always create honest conversations How the perceived stigma of mental health affects professionals like accountants The competitive 'Darwinian' nature of professions that involve the mind - the survival of the fittest The huge pressures accountants are under in building their career, and why any sign of weakness can be detrimental How good or not accountants are at handling change, disruption and pressure Much of a professional's self worth, identity and acceptance is wrapped up in what they can do, not who they are How accountancy is like football in being a performance business with massive pressure to get results How accounting firm leaders and cultures are rarely equipped to deal with admissions of mental health and stress In a data driven industry, it's hard to make decisions about complex emotions inherent in mental health How a greater acceptance of mental health and liberation of views has led to a better understanding of the impacts In accounting firms, people (and leaders) do genuinely care but don't always know how to help with mental health The importance of sharing your struggles and vulnerabilities in work situations, especially if you're in a leadership role Nobody has all the answers, especially in times of great disruption and uncertainty One example of the chain of events that might lead someone to take their own life The song lyric that turned a suicidal depressive's life around to now helping other professionals deal with mental health The role of therapists and counsellors in helping you articulate complex emotions and situation When not working, Andy loves playing board games, listening to ska and pop-punk music and cooking. He lives with his cat Pika – named after a Pokémon – in Leeds, UK. Recently he has been teaching himself music from no prior knowledge using only a GameBoy. You can reach him here... https://andysalkeld.com (Website ) https://www.linkedin.com/in/andysalkeld/ (LinkedIn )