World Mental Health Day is a reminder that mental wellbeing is just as important as physical health, especially in the workplace. In this blog, we explore practical ways to prioritise mental health at work, from encouraging open conversations to providing essential resources for employees.
World Mental Health Day serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of wellbeing especially in the workplace. This year’s theme, “It is time to prioritise mental health in the workplace”, calls on businesses everywhere to recognise that mental health is just as vital as physical health. By building a culture of support and understanding, companies can create environments where everyone can thrive.
Workplaces play a significant role in our daily lives, impacting not only our professional growth but also out mental wellbeing. When companies prioritise mental health, they cultivate an environment where employees feel valued, motivated, and productive.
In the UK, 1 in 6 people experience mental health problems in the workplace. Ignoring these statistics can lead to burnout, reduced job satisfaction, and increased absenteeism, while taking proactive measure can have a profound effect on individual’s happiness and the company’s success.
Supporting mental wellbeing at work doesn’t require a complete overhaul - it’s about making consistent, meaningful changes that positively impact your team.
Here are some practical ways companies can begin prioritising mental health:
Encourage Open Conversations: Breaking the stigma surrounding mental health begins with open and honest conversations. Encouraging employees to discuss their mental wellbeing is key, and this can be achieved by offering platforms for these discussions - such as regular one-to-one check-ins, mental health workshops, or peer support groups. Creating an environment where individuals feel comfortable sharing their experiences without fear of judgement is crucial to building a supportive workplace culture. When mental health is approached openly, it normalises seeking help and makes everyone feel more secure in addressing their challenges.
Provide Mental Health Resources: Providing resources like an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), access to counselling services, or dedicated mental health days can make a significant difference in how supported employees feel during challenging times. These initiatives can help create an environment where mental health is prioritised, allowing individuals to seek help without stigma. Moreover, ensuring that employees have straightforward access to the right information and services is crucial - it can empower them to take proactive steps towards their wellbeing, ultimately benefiting both their personal health and their productivity at work.
Training for Managers: Managers are frequently the first to notice when an employee is struggling, making them a critical touchpoint for providing timely support. Offering mental health awareness training for managers ensures they are equipped with the skills to recognise early signs of distress, approach sensitive conversations with empathy, and connect individuals with appropriate resources. Empowering managers in this way helps create a proactive support system, allowing issues to be addressed before they escalate, and contributes to a healthier, more resilient workplace culture.
Prioritising mental health in the workplace is more than just the right thing to do - it's also a smart strategy. By creating a supportive and inclusive environment, employers can boost the wellbeing, productivity, and engagement of their workforce. When mental health is treated as a priority, employees feel valued and motivated, leading to a stronger, healthier organisation.
Interested in learning more this World Mental Health Day? Explore these helpful resources:
Let’s work together to break the stigma around mental health and create workplaces where everyone can thrive.