
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 I became withdrawn, stopped talking to my dad, and leaned heavily on my mum.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
Belonging & Inclusion
At Harrods, we embrace a broad definition of diversity, from gender, sexuality, ethnicity, disability, background, and experience to other dimensions such as lifestyle and family responsibilities.
Our goal is to increase the representation of all dimensions to reflect the customers we serve and the increasingly diverse and global marketplace we operate in.
Latest jobs
Salary
Location
Location
Knightsbridge
Job Type
Full Time
Sector
Sales Associate
Contract Type
Permanent
Description
As a Sales Associate within our Rolex Certified Pre-Owned department, you will be responsible for creating world class customer experiences for each and every client within our Rolex boutique in Harro
Reference
VAC- 45574
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Job managed by:
Amelia TahirJob managed by:
Amelia TahirSalary
Location
Location
Knightsbridge
Job Type
Full Time
Sector
Sales Associate
Contract Type
Permanent
Description
Harrods is one of the world’s leading luxury department stores and we’re becoming a destination for top designers, and the most sought-after brands from around the globe.Are you passionate about fashi
Reference
VAC- 22430
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Job managed by:
Etienne HaywardJob managed by:
Etienne HaywardSalary
Location
Location
Knightsbridge
Job Type
Full Time
Sector
Management and Support
Contract Type
Permanent
Description
We are looking for exceptional Kitchen Porters to join us at Harrods, where we currently house more celebrity chefs, and exclusive dining brands than any other location in the UK. You will be joining
Reference
VAC- 47037
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Job managed by:
Lucy GovanJob managed by:
Lucy GovanSalary
Location
Location
Knightsbridge
Job Type
Full Time
Sector
Back of House
Contract Type
Permanent
Description
At Harrods we currently house more celebrity chefs and exclusive dining brands than any other location in the UK, and right now we are looking for exceptional Kitchen Porters to join our team in creat
Reference
VAC- 42774
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Job managed by:
Lucy GovanJob managed by:
Lucy GovanSalary
Location
Location
Knightsbridge
Job Type
Full Time
Sector
Sales Associate
Contract Type
Permanent
Description
Our Harrods Menswear department is looking for outgoing, creative and engaging sales associates, creating a magical, personalised experience for our customers, whilst being a leading destination for t
Reference
VAC- 37290
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Job managed by:
Etienne HaywardJob managed by:
Etienne HaywardSalary
Location
Location
Hammersmith
Job Type
Full Time
Sector
Creative, Marketing and Partnerships
Contract Type
Permanent
Description
Join the Harrods Own Label & Brand team as a Co-Brand Marketing Executive and help shape premium marketing campaigns that elevate our in-house product lines and customer experience.About the RoleAs Co
Reference
VAC- 46672
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Job managed by:
Freja KaneJob managed by:
Freja KaneSalary
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
Knightsbridge
Job Type
Full Time
Sector
Distribution and Warehouse
Contract Type
Permanent
Description
Delivering world class service to Harrods’ most loyal clients and consistently exceeding their expectations is in our DNA. It goes without saying that our clients expect simplicity, ease, pace and mos
Reference
VAC- 34989
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Job managed by:
Amelia TahirJob managed by:
Amelia TahirSalary
Location
Location
Knightsbridge
Job Type
Full Time
Sector
Store Services
Contract Type
Permanent
Description
Due to ongoing growth, our Engineering Team now have an exciting new opening for a Maintenance and Minor Works Manager to join us. You will play a critical role in supporting the maintenance and upkee
Reference
VAC- 46767
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Job managed by:
Sarah ManningJob managed by:
Sarah ManningSalary
Location
Location
Knightsbridge
Job Type
Full Time
Sector
Sales Associate
Contract Type
Permanent
Description
We are recruiting passionate Product Demonstrator to join our exciting Kitchen and Household department. The Product Demonstrator is responsible for creating magical, memorable moments of delight and
Reference
VAC- 44586
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Job managed by:
Lucy GovanJob managed by:
Lucy GovanDiscover more about us

Teaser
GeneralContent Type
Career StoriesPublish date
06/13/2025
Summary
What happens when a five-year-old joins his dad at work? This year for Father's Day, we invited Leo to spend the day with his dad Conrad, a Working Parents Board Member, asking quest

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
Recently viewed jobs