
As part of Mental Health Awareness Week, we’re continuing to spotlight the stories of our colleagues, each one a powerful reminder of how community can shape and support our mental health.
Today, we’re spotlighting Meg, Food Technologist, who opens up about her mental health journey. From a diagnosis in her teens to the daily habits, therapy, and support systems that keep her grounded today.
Harrods: Thank you so much for your time today, Meg. What does mental wellbeing mean to you?
Meg: To me, mental wellbeing is about feeling calm and clear-headed in everyday life. It’s that sense of balance where I’m not overwhelmed, and I can recognise how I’m truly feeling about what’s going on. It’s about being in touch with my emotions, and knowing how to navigate the tough moments. I’ve been through a lot, so finding that equilibrium is crucial. It’s something I keep top of mind.
Harrods: When did you first realise how important it is to take care of your mental health?
Meg: I first realised the importance when I was 16. After a significant change in my family life, just after my GCSEs, I went through a really difficult period. I became withdrawn, stopped talking to my dad, and leaned heavily on my mum. On top of that, I started sixth form at a school that was very high-pressure. It was all about getting top grades. I just wasn’t in the right headspace, and it all became too much.
That’s when I was diagnosed with clinical depression and anxiety. Back then, support was limited. I tried antidepressants, but they didn’t work for me; they made me feel numb, like I wasn’t feeling anything at all.
Harrods: You were so young when all of this happened. With limited support and antidepressants not working for you, how did you start finding your own ways to take care of your mental health?
Meg: Over time, I’ve learned to identify my triggers and recognise when I’m starting to spiral. Overthinking and catastrophising are big ones for me. I used to let stress build up until it became overwhelming. Now, I’ve developed small daily habits that really help - like going for long walks. Just getting outside and moving for a couple of hours clears my head. I also try to keep up with things that bring me joy and energy.
During this time, I met my partner, who’s really outgoing, and his energy helped pull me out of that place. I also started therapy, which was invaluable. Talking through everything, reconnecting with my dad, and working on healing together was a huge turning point.
Harrods: What’s your main motivation now to prioritise your wellbeing and keep those routines going?
Meg: A big part of it is knowing that it doesn’t just affect me. It impacts the people I care about. I have a partner, a dog, and I’ve seen how my energy affects them. When I’m not taking care of myself, I’m not easy to be around. I become snappy, shut myself off, and struggle to see things in a positive light. That fogginess is tough.
So now, I try to keep things in balance. Not perfectly, but in a way that ensures I’m doing things that help me feel good and grounded. I’ve seen the consequences when I don’t, and I don’t want to go back to that.
Harrods: You seem to have such strong self-awareness. Where do you think that comes from?
Meg: People tell me that a lot! I think it’s because I went through a lot at a young age. I had to grow up quickly. Not just for me, but also because I had a younger brother, and in a small town, people talk. There was pressure to keep it together and just get on with things.
Harrods: Do you think community plays a role in mental wellbeing?
Meg: Absolutely. For me, it’s about having something constant. It could be a friend, a family member, or even a pet. Knowing something or someone is always there, waiting for you, really helps. It’s made a huge difference in how I view day-to-day life.
Harrods: How has community played a role in your journey?
Meg: At first, I didn’t want help. I pushed people away because I didn’t think I deserved it. But over time, I realised how much my parents had done for me. Never forcing anything, just being there. My partner is incredibly patient, and my friends have been amazing.
I was the first in my group to be diagnosed, which felt isolating. But it actually helped others open up. One of my friends sought help because she saw me go through it. I became a support person for her, and that mutual trust and honesty became really important.
Harrods: Are there any routines or rituals that help you stay connected?
Meg: Yes! My friends and I do something called Waffle Wednesdays. We send voice notes to each other once a week, just checking in. There’s no pressure to reply immediately; you listen when you can. One of my friends lives in Spain and is about to move to Japan, so it helps keep us close even across time zones. I really look forward to it every week.
Harrods: Finally, if you could say something to your 16-year-old self, what would it be?
Meg: I’d tell her: “There’s so much more to life than what’s happening right now.” At 16, I had just been diagnosed with depression and anxiety, and I felt like I’d lost everything. But I’d tell her those 20 minutes in the GP’s office don’t define you. Yes, they shape you, but they don’t own you.
Now, ten years later, I’m confident, calm, and genuinely happy. That diagnosis is just a part of my story. It doesn’t control me. I’d remind her that she’s not alone, she’s loved, and one day, everything will be okay.
Harrods: Thank you for sharing so openly, Meg.
Meg: Thank you for giving me the space to talk about it.
Let’s Stay in Touch
Hybrid at Harrods
At Harrods, we understand that every role is different. That’s why our approach to hybrid working is flexible. Some colleagues are fully on-site, while others split their time between the office and home – this is what we call ‘Hybrid’.
We believe in the value of coming together to connect, collaborate and learn, while also appreciating the benefits of focused work from home. Most hybrid roles involve being on-site at least three days a week, depending on business needs.
Latest jobs
Salary
Location
Location
Knightsbridge
Job Type
Full Time
Sector
Front of House
Contract Type
Permanent
Description
Our ambition is for Harrods Private Shopping to be the ultimate luxury shopping and lifestyle destination.Our Private Shopping Waiter's will assist the Management team in running the Private Shopping
Reference
VAC- 38026
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Job managed by:
Natasha Coventry-MarshallJob managed by:
Natasha Coventry-MarshallSalary
Location
Location
Knightsbridge
Job Type
Full Time
Sector
Hairstylist
Contract Type
Permanent
Description
We are currently recruiting for a Front of House Coordinator to join our Drybar team in Harrods Knightsbridge.Drybar is no ordinary salon. With stylish blow-dry bars, luxurious surroundings, and a tea
Reference
VAC- 46557
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Job managed by:
Jamie BradleyJob managed by:
Jamie BradleySalary
Location
Location
Knightsbridge
Job Type
Full Time
Sector
Sales Associate
Contract Type
Permanent
Description
We’re currently looking for a full time Sales Specialist to join our prestigious Wines & Spirits department. With Harrods’ Wines & Spirits department being home to over 1,400 wines and 400 varieties o
Reference
VAC- 44619
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Job managed by:
Unnati GandhiJob managed by:
Unnati GandhiSalary
Location
Location
Hammersmith
Job Type
Full Time
Sector
Buying and Merchandising
Contract Type
Fixed Term
Description
Our Merchandising team are currently seeking a skilled Demand Planner to join the Own Label on a 12 month fixed term basis. This is your opportunity to play a pivotal role in ensuring forecast accurac
Reference
VAC- 46137
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Job managed by:
Laura StainsbyJob managed by:
Laura StainsbySalary
Location
Location
Glasgow
Job Type
Full Time
Sector
H beauty
Contract Type
Permanent
Description
Harrods is bringing more magic, innovation, and theatre to the beauty market through our H beauty standalone stores across the UK, and we will soon be launching another iconic store in Silverburn, Gla
Reference
VAC- 46520
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Job managed by:
Jamie BradleyJob managed by:
Jamie BradleySalary
Location
Location
Knightsbridge
Job Type
Full Time
Sector
Distribution and Warehouse
Contract Type
Permanent
Description
Delivery Services AdvisorOur Dispatch team in Knightsbridge have an exciting opportunity to join their thriving team as a Delivery Services Advisor.About the RoleReporting to the Delivery Services Man
Reference
VAC- 46347
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Job managed by:
Sarah ManningJob managed by:
Sarah ManningSalary
Location
Location
Hammersmith
Job Type
Full Time
Sector
Creative, Marketing and Partnerships
Contract Type
Permanent
Description
Harrods is looking for an Advertising Operations Manager to lead the daily operations of its growing retail media business. The role ensures advertising campaigns are delivered efficiently, meeting br
Reference
VAC- 46279
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Job managed by:
Laura StainsbyJob managed by:
Laura StainsbySalary
Location
Location
Hammersmith
Job Type
Full Time
Sector
PR and Corporate Comms
Contract Type
Permanent
Description
Harrods is looking for a talented and motivated Designer Editor to deliver high-quality creative work across the full Harrods print publication portfolio (Harrods Magazines, Harrods Man, Home, Estates
Reference
VAC- 46226
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Job managed by:
Laura StainsbyJob managed by:
Laura StainsbySalary
Location
Location
Knightsbridge
Job Type
Full Time
Sector
Store Development and Project Management
Contract Type
Permanent
Description
Our Store Development Team are now looking for a Construction Logistics Manager to join them. You will manage up to 150 contractors per shift end-end, from preparing for their arrival- answering email
Reference
VAC- 46161
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Job managed by:
Sarah ManningJob managed by:
Sarah ManningSalary
Location
Location
Knightsbridge
Job Type
Full Time
Sector
Distribution and Warehouse
Contract Type
Permanent
Description
Due to ongoing growth, our Knightsbridge based Dispatch team are now looking for a Nightshift Manager to join them. You will manage a team of up to 15 including Assistant Managers, Team Leaders and Wa
Reference
VAC- 44967
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Job managed by:
Sarah ManningJob managed by:
Sarah ManningDiscover more about us

Teaser
Belonging & InclusionContent Type
NewsPublish date
05/14/2025
Summary
As Mental Health Awareness Week comes to a close, we’re wrapping up our series by spotlighting the final story, Zarah’s. Each interview has been a powerful reminder of how community can sh

Teaser
Belonging & InclusionContent Type
NewsPublish date
05/12/2025
Summary
As part of Mental Health Awareness Week, we’re spotlighting colleagues across Harrods. This year’s theme is Community, and we're exploring the ways our people find connection, support, and

Teaser
Belonging & InclusionContent Type
NewsPublish date
05/09/2025
Summary
As part of Mental Health Awareness Week, we’re spotlighting colleagues across Harrods. This year’s theme is Community, and we're exploring the ways our people find connection, support, and

Teaser
Learning & DevelopmentContent Type
EventsPublish date
04/08/2025
Summary
"We’re proud to celebrate RISE, our learning programme designed to support career growth and development of our colleagues. RISE equips participants with the skills, knowledge, and confide

Teaser
Uniquely YouContent Type
NewsPublish date
04/08/2025
Summary
As the winner of the We Take Pride category at the Harrods Awards for Excellence (HAFE), Geoff Hooton has had his fair share of adventures. From his early days in the Army to his role as t

Teaser
Uniquely YouContent Type
Career StoriesPublish date
04/08/2025
Summary
A native of Venezuela, Analius has lived in London for over 10 years and worked at Harrods for seven of them. We ask her for her current TikTok and TV obsessions, style go-tos and what culin

Teaser
Belonging & InclusionContent Type
EventsPublish date
03/26/2025
Summary
Our Neuroinclusion Network at Harrods was proud to host its inaugural panel discussion in honour of Neurodiversity Celebration Week. Led by our Partnerships Director, Alex Unitt, the pan

Teaser
Our Promise & ValuesContent Type
NewsPublish date
03/26/2025
Summary
WWF Earth Hour 2025 At Harrods, we were proud to take part in WWF Earth Hour on March 22nd, reinforcing our commitment to building a more sustainable future. This year’s theme, “Create

Teaser
Belonging & InclusionContent Type
NewsPublish date
03/26/2025
Summary
At Harrods, giving back to our community is a key part of our ESG strategy. As a founding partner of WEST Youth Zone, we are proud to support their incredible work in empowering

Teaser
GeneralContent Type
NewsPublish date
03/20/2025
Summary
2025 Women to Watch in Hospitality, Travel, Leisure & Retail Index. We are delighted to share that Lindsay Calderwood, Head of Digital Brand Partnerships, has been recognised in the Wi
Recently viewed jobs