There are words we say at work all the time. “I’m fine”, “All good”, “No worries”. But behind those lines, there’s often more. At Fujifilm, we want to make space for that “more” – the emotions, challenges, and small wins that shape our days but rarely make it into emails, work meetings, or performance reviews.
At Fujifilm, our mission is simple but powerful – Giving Our World More Smiles. And these smiles start with people who feel safe, valued, and supported. This Mental Health Awareness Week, we continue our series of personal stories from our colleagues. Each one is different and honest. And all part of a broader purpose – to create a healthier, supportive, and more human workplace where people feel seen.
In this interview, we hear from a colleague who is often described as one of the best smiles in the European HQ. In this interview, Tatsuya Kobayashi, Service Manager in MS/RDI Division at Fujifilm Healthcare Europe, shares what makes positive difference to his mental well-being and how he manages to keep giving our world more smiles in a fast-paced work environment.
“I try to smile in the office as much as possible, so that I can give a positive vibe to the people around me.”
– Thankfully, I have never had a situation where I had to prioritize my mental well-being. But I think this has to do with the fact that I have an environment where I can openly discuss things and don’t have to bottle up all alone. My team members also can speak to me freely and say what they feel. I try to ask for their opinions or ask questions to understand the situation better before I give my opinion. We work as a team, and everyone is valuable and essential to what we do. Therefore conversation is the key to our success. I think that everyone has experienced tough times and it is important to have someone you can rely on – this is the key to overcoming the issue as a team.
Work-life balance is also the key to me. Work is important but personal life is important as well. You should not take the negative vibe from work to home as no one will benefit from this. And then, if you can refresh at home, you are able to challenge again.
What’s one small, regular habit that makes a positive difference to your mental well-being?
– Taking pride in the work I do. I think if you believe in what you do, you will not have any regrets. Also, you can take responsibility for your choices and fix it if there are obstacles. What else?.. I try to smile in the office as much as possible, so that I can give a positive vibe to the people around me!
During busy or challenging times, what’s your go-to strategy for managing stress and maintaining your mental balance?
– Sleep. I think this is essential to maintain your mental balance. As the saying goes, “let me sleep on it”. I think the mind is fresher after sleeping, and you are more calm and able to see a better solution.
What are some early signs that tell you it’s time to take a break and recharge?
– I tend to get annoyed with small things. I get more emotional about things that are usually fine. That’s when I tell myself to call it a day.
Do you think equality and social support at work play their role in maintaining good mental health of employees?
– I think equality and social support are key factors for good mental health, as we need to be treated fairly. Small things someone feels from unfairness can bother them and pile up to become something that they may feel offensive.
If you could share one key takeaway about looking after your mind, what would it be?
– I have a motto which is “Always look on the bright side of life”. I try to take more positive from work, like a “thank you” from a colleague, and build on that, and think how I can do better tomorrow.
If you’re looking for support
This series is part of a broader commitment we’ve made through Fujifilm’s Group Employee Wellness Declaration and the Sustainable Value Plan 2030, aiming to create a workplace culture where talking about mental health is normalised and nobody feels like they have to leave their personal struggles at the door. We want to ensure that no one has to hide the weight of the challenges they face. If you know someone struggling, forward this. If you’re struggling yourself, save this. There is no right way to ask for help – only your way and the time that feels right.
For hotline and lifeline options by country, check out these websites:
findahelpline.com
yourlifecounts.org
https://unisafe-gbv.eu/national-support-resources-counselling-and-helplines/
Find out more about mental health and devoted initiatives here:
https://www.mentalhealtheurope.org/
https://www.who.int/teams/mental-health-and-substance-use