Hollingworth attributes her mental health challenges to workplace stress combined with personal life-changing events.

She hopes her story will inspire others working in the mortgage sector as well as employers looking to implement appropriate support.

She talked to MIMHC co-founder and Crystal Specialist Finance group sales director Jason Berry, as part of the not-for-profit organisation’s latest ‘Keeping the Mental Health Conversation Going’ video.

The forum provides a platform for industry leaders to share insights and strategies for promoting best practice mental wellbeing in the workplace.

During a 30-year career in the mortgage industry, Hollingworth noticed her mental wellbeing falter on several separate occasions and has learned to take a proactive approach when this occurs.

She says: “We work in a highly pressurised sector, and I now know how essential it is to take care of your physical health as well as your mental health in order to be your best self.”

“There are frequently several factors that combine to impact your emotional wellbeing, and I personally found the onset of the menopause a trigger, as I was that young I didn’t realise it was the menopause but it really did affect my mental health. On that occasion, I became physically unable to function and wanted to retreat from everyday life which I now recognise to have been a form of burnout.”

“But I’ve learned from these experiences and now know it’s essential to realise when you’re not coping, be absolutely honest with yourself and take appropriate action.”

In the video, Hollingworth cites rest combined with exercise as key components of her recovery. She says: “For me, hot-pod yoga and rural walks with my dog prove immensely beneficial to my mental health.”

“I’m also a firm believer in the importance of frank conversations with colleagues – including your company’s mental health advocate or HR team – as well as with trusted friends on those occasions when it’s necessary.”

Commenting on Hollingworth’s video, Berry says: “This is the first time in one of MIMHC’s videos that an interviewee has discussed openly the clear links between good mental health and her physical wellbeing.”

“When there’s a daily focus on delivering the right solution for others, it’s essential to focus on your own mental and physical wellbeing if you’re to be your best self.”

“Being honest with yourself and others and knowing that you’ll be listened to and provided with appropriate support are essential components of good mental health – and the continued success of our sector.”