Who are your greatest mentors?
Growing up you may have had that one teacher, older sibling, parent, or family friend that you could always look up to. It was great, right?!
With experience comes wisdom, and when we find those who may have more experience, it can change the trajectory of our lives - even from a mental health or neurological standpoint.
Why mentorship matters
Mentors enable us to see ourselves in someone who has already completed a path we may hope to pursue. They serve as role models, paving the way for others to follow. We can look up to mentors in a way that pushes us to pursue our goals. Oftentimes, mentors will tell us we are capable when we don’t think so ourselves.
Most importantly, mentors, especially when genuine and authentic, serve as a reminder of the true nature of hard work. While we can see the results of the hard work, we can also see the progress and rocky roads that got them there.
Oftentimes role models can shift our perspective into new values. The daily beliefs and values we hold are so integral to who we are. And we are greatly affected by the values that those around us have - especially when it’s someone we look up to!
Role models can also serve as examples of the importance of community engagement and social work. They may serve as a catalyst for change and push us to do the same. When we see ourselves in role models it can really boost our confidence and self-esteem too!
Any Mental Health Benefits?
Research has demonstrated that the mental health decline during the pandemic could be partially attributed to the sudden loss of role models for many youth, especially for vulnerable populations.
A study conducted by the University of Cambridge Judge Business found that mentoring reduced anxiety and depression, improving long-term mental health for both mentors and mentees. This was most true when mentors got to know their mentees as individuals and looked out for signs of isolation or anxiety. It can be hugely beneficial to receive mentorship, but the satisfaction of sharing your wisdom with others and serving as a mentor yourself is another huge benefit.
Additionally, a study published by Mentoring Canada states that young people who had a mentor growing up are 53% more likely to experience positive mental health than those who did not.
Let’s ask Jess H., the Psychometrist at NNG who cares deeply about this topic!
Jess shared: “It is important to make people passionate about the work they do so they are invested in the process.”
Also: check out her spotlight! https://www.newtonneuro.com/post/clinician-spotlight-jessica-hack
Takeaways
Mentorship is so impactful for both the mentee and mentor. These impacts can be tangibly felt both in and out of the workplace. Finding the opportunity to build these connections is so worthwhile.
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