In the digital marketing industry, the pace is fast, the deadlines are tight, and the demand for creativity is constant. As we mark Mental Health Week, it’s a timely reminder that amidst the targets and timelines, we need to prioritise the most important part of any campaign: the people behind it.
As an employee-owned business, we all have a stake in the success of our work here at I-COM. But with that shared ownership comes a shared responsibility - to look after ourselves and one another, not just as colleagues, but as human beings.
Mental Health in the Digital Workplace
Digital marketing is exciting, ever-evolving, and full of opportunity. But it can also be overwhelming. The pressure to stay ahead of trends, meet client expectations, and maintain flawless delivery can take its toll. Add in remote or hybrid working, and it’s easy to blur the lines between home and work.
That’s why it’s vital we make mental health a real priority—not just during this week, but every day.
Why It Matters Even More in Our Industry
- The digital world never sleeps – but we must. Downtime is not laziness, it’s fuel for creativity.
- Marketing is personal – we pour emotion and thought into our work, which makes it rewarding, but also mentally demanding.
- Innovation needs energy – and that energy starts with wellbeing.
A Breath of Fresh Air—Literally
While we’re talking about wellbeing, let’s not forget the value of getting outside - especially when the weather is kind. Fresh air, natural light, and a walk around the block can reset a mind that’s been stuck in screens and Google Meets.
Whether it’s a lunchtime stroll, a coffee in the sun, or a walking meeting, let’s make the most of it. Nature is one of the simplest, most accessible mental health tools we have.
For EO Day 2025, I-COM has been inspired by the ‘EO Smile’ theme and wants to invite all businesses connected to employee ownership to ‘Share Your Smile!’. It is a great excuse to get out and about and snap a smile in the fresh air.
Learn more about the campaign here
How We Support Each Other at I-COM
As an employee-owned digital marketing team, here’s how we try to turn intention into action:
Make Space for Honest Conversation
- We keep checking in - not just on deadlines, but on how people are.
- We encourage openness, like being able to ask for a quick chat or have informal drop-ins.
- We have a dedicated Mental Health First Aider, happy to listen and able to offer paths to improving mental health
Promote Healthy Work Habits
- Take breaks. Log off on time. Encourage full use of annual leave.
- Celebrate effort, not just output. Recognise the value of recharging.
- Ensuring recognition for all wins, large or small, internal or external
- Share stories, normalise asking for help, and walk the walk - not just talk the talk.
Lead by Example
- Our leaders care for their mental health; it sets the tone for everyone, and it shows.
- Our leadership team members pride themselves on being open and available to chat - whatever is on your mind, they can often provide a new perspective and reassurance.
In Summary
Mental Health Week is more than a campaign - it’s a chance to recommit to each other. In the high-speed world of digital marketing, mental wellbeing isn’t a ‘nice-to-have’. It’s the backbone of sustainable, creative, and collaborative work.
As employee owners, we’re uniquely placed to shape a culture where health and happiness go hand in hand with performance. Let’s take this week - and this sunshine - as a reminder to look up from our screens, step outside, and support one another in every sense of the word.
Because when we feel good, we do great work—and that’s something worth investing in.
