Keep your sense of humour. Even in the darkest of times the bizarreness of things can make you laugh.

1. Don’t be afraid to keep asking how someone is.

2. The little things matter - something sweet, a bunch of flowers, cup of tea, just sitting quietly with someone or just a text all help you get perspective when you are teetering on the edge.

3. Remember everyone who is open about their mental health is helping someone else and showing the way. It’s scary but being brave and kind to others will help you get through the worst of days. #itsoknottobeok

Throughout both of our careers, we have moved across the spectrum of mental health from thriving to barely hanging on, and somewhere in between. What we’ve learned through our own experiences is how much managerial support matters. When bosses understand mental health issues — and how to respond to them — it can make all the difference for an employee professionally and personally. This involves taking notice, offering a helping hand, and saying “I’m here, I have your back, you are not alone.”