Mental health: VW calls on public to down tools

What do you think of this light-touch visual representation of a message to all of us to stop overworking? The collaboration between vehicle maker VW and Mental Health UK presents pretty compelling images with nobody in sight to illustrate how our work lives should look - i.e. close up shop properly when your work day is done. Do you find the imagery and the message relaxing and one you're on board with? Already ahead of the wave on that? Or are you one of those who believe in working while nobody else is, for best results? Whatever our views, it's hard to argue with the idea that we need to look out for our mental wellbeing in confusing and often distressing times. And whatever our trade or profession, the use of tools like pliers and cement mixers to make the point is a lot more effective for most of us than watching a computer/mobile power down. VW says: “It’s vital that we allow ourselves enough time to switch off from work. The COVID-19 pandemic has blurred the lines between work and life causing a dangerous imbalance, whether that’s struggling to log-off when working from home or battling to keep pace with increased workload. We hope by raising awareness through our #DownTools campaign, we can encourage people to make their mental health a priority, because ultimately we work better when we feel better.” Mental Health UK is offering a range of services in association with the campaign, including support for those with money worries, and those of us in the UK may see related billboards showing the slogan 'Bring the Shutters Down' on high street shop shutter paintings by mural artist Peter Barber. Hm, could that backfire in the sense that Covid restrictions have already sadly brought the shutters down on so many small businesses? Be that as it may, look me in the eye and tell me you don't relate to those wellies...

Keywords: VW and Mental Health UK, Down Tools campaign, mental health UK, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, mural artist Peter Barber, BBH