Mental Health is Critical to a Successful Workplace

When employees have good mental health, they are more engaged, motivated and productive, creating a positive and supportive work environment where individuals feel valued, understood and supported.

Recognizing Mental Health Importance

Focusing on mental health involves recognizing the importance of mental well-being and taking steps to promote and maintain it. This includes managing stress, developing coping mechanisms, seeking support when needed and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

Mental health struggles are common and can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, race or socioeconomic status. Since the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that 40% of American adults have struggled with their mental health and 71% of adults reported feeling overwhelmed, burnt-out and had difficulty managing stress.

Workplace Programs Send a Positive Message

Workplace programs for both physical and mental health are a win-win for both employees and employers. Implementing programs around mental health sends a message to employees that their well-being is a priority, leading to a healthier and more productive work environment, improved well-being, increased job satisfaction and enhanced organizational success.

In turn, employers typically see cost savings through reduced absenteeism and disability claims as well as increased presenteeism, engagement, productivity and retention, while also contributing to meeting workplace health and safety guidelines.

Creating a Supportive Environment for Well-Being

Overall, by prioritizing mental health in the workplace, organizations can create a supportive environment that promotes employee well-being, reduces burn-out and enhances overall productivity.

Here are a few ways employers can begin promoting awareness around mental health:

Education

Seek opportunities to educate leaders as well as employees about mental health. It is crucial for a leadership team, as well as employees, to know how to identify mental health struggles, offer support, and be equipped with the skills needed for empathetic and constructive conversations.

Open Communication 

Encourage open conversation and reduce stigma surrounding mental health issues. Create a culture where employees feel comfortable discussing their mental well-being, concerns and challenges.

Foster a Supportive Work Environment

Cultivate a workplace culture that values mental health and prioritizes work-life balance.

Provide Resources

Offer access to resources such as counseling services, mental health hotlines and online self-help tools. Partner with professionals or organizations to provide support and guidance.

To learn more about mental health programming in the workplace, contact a Workforce Health team member.

Sources
•    https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mental-health-strength…
•    https://www.forbes.com/sites/mariaminor/2021/01/20/mental-health-in-the…
•    https://www.apa.org/pubs/reports/work-in-america/2023-workplace-health-…
•    https://www.spill.chat/mental-health-statistics/workplace-mental-health…