Reuters staffers to get mental health holiday next month

Steve Hasker, president and chief executive officer of Thomson Reuters, sent the following message out to all employees on Thursday:

Colleagues,

This year has tested all of us in innumerable ways. If there’s one thing 2020 has taught us, it’s the value of having the mind-space to deal with the unexpected. It’s important for individuals and it’s important for businesses.

At Thomson Reuters, we intend to place increased long-term focus on mental health and the overall health of our people, so I am happy to announce that all associates who are currently eligible for company holidays will be given a Mental Health Day Off on October 9.

We made this decision recognizing that we continue to navigate a global pandemic and witness the civil unrest in many countries that is tied to the ramifications of systemic racism in society. This Mental Health Day Off will become a permanent company holiday, extending beyond 2020 and taking place on or around World Mental Health Day each year. It is the beginning of a broader effort to embed wellbeing into our workplace culture, which you will see and experience in the months and years to come.

Please use the time on October 9 to practice whatever methods you use to help cope with emotional and physical pressures.  One app that is available to all Thomson Reuters associates globally is the new Headspace app. The app provides daily mindfulness and meditation practices that are simple to put into place.

Additionally, to continue this important conversation on the importance of mental wellness, we invite you to participate in activities around World Mental Health Day taking place across the company in October. These virtual events focus on strengthening your mental health and fighting the stigma associated with mental illness. Stay tuned to The Hub for more information.

Finally, I truly appreciate the hard work and dedication you have all displayed during this challenging year. We have been able to meet and, in many cases, exceed our customers’ needs during what is also a difficult time for them. Your adaptability to hardship is impressive, and I am honored to call you my colleagues.

Please make every effort to look after yourself and take time off when you need it, in addition to this new company holiday. Your wellbeing is critical to our success and equally, your wellbeing matters to me.

Take care,

Steve Hasker