Taniya PanDiscussions of mental health at the workplace are no longer taboo. There was a time when even whispering “stress” in the workplace was frowned upon, but they are now picked up as an important conversation, especially, after the pandemic, and we are seeing a rise in open discussions about mental health.
There are various factors why there is an increase in impact on the employees, such as job stress, financial stress, economic downturn, etc. As the times become harder, employees are likely to face anxiety, depression, etc., and it is no surprise that this will affect an individual’s performance in the workplace. An hrexecutive’s survey conducted among 9,000 workers globally revealed that 48% reported a decline in their well-being in 2022, while 28 percent expressed feeling unhappy or miserable in their workplace.
With the ongoing pandemic, remote work, and increased workload, it has become even more critical for employers to ensure that their employees are in good mental and emotional health. This is why a laid-out plan is needed to help employees tackle these problems. Read on to create strategies that can improve mental health in the workplace.
Understanding Mental Health in a Professional Context
Mental health and work are deeply interconnected because knowing how an individual’s ability to function and perform in a work setting is necessary, their work shows telltale signs, whether that employee is affected by poor mental health issues. After finding the causes, you will understand the potential risk factors and you will know how to support employees who may be struggling with their mental health. According to HBR (Harvard business review), 68% of Millennials and 81% of Gen Zers left their jobs due to mental health concerns, both voluntarily and involuntarily. This is a significant increase from previous years, with 50% of respondents overall reporting leaving their jobs for the same reason. The survey also found that 91% of respondents believed that a company’s culture should support mental health, up from 86% in 2019.
It is important to understand that mental health issues can affect anyone, regardless of their job or position. Eventually, it can impact productivity and job satisfaction, leading to significant costs for both employees and employers, if it is not addressed.
The importance of mental health in the workplace
Mental health challenges can arise due to various factors such as job stress, work culture, workload, or they may be struggling with it for years before joining the company. In situations like these buildings, a strategy for mental health is a way out.
It’s not about just supporting mental health, but also prioritizing self-care. Setting up the right model for the employees that tackles burnout, frustration, depression, etc.
Providing support and resources to employees to address mental health at work, benefits the organization as a whole. A healthy workplace can also help to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health, promoting a culture of openness and understanding.
The impact of mental health issues on job performance and overall well-being
When an employee is living through a cycle of chaos in their mind, it can be incredibly challenging and tough to manage, if left unaddressed, these mental health illnesses can lead to lowered output, absenteeism and presenteeism (where employees attend work but are not fully productive). Mental health challenges can also lead to physical health problems, such as headaches, backaches, and gastrointestinal problems.
Mental health challenges can cause feelings of sadness, anxiety, irritability, and exhaustion, which can affect personal relationships, hobbies, and activities outside of work. These feelings can also lead to a decrease in self-esteem and confidence, and individuals may become more socially isolated.
Offer mental health benefits
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of mental well-being support at work has become increasingly clear. Many people have been struggling with anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues, and employers can play a crucial role in helping them recover. Offering mental health benefits in the employee benefits packages which include access to mental health professionals such as therapists, counselors, or psychiatrists, as well as coverage for mental health medications, can be of great help to employees navigating these difficulties.
In addition to providing access to mental health professionals, employers can provide counseling and support for employees and their families. Create wellness programs that help employees address a range of issues, including stress, anxiety, depression, addiction, and relationship problems.
Employers can also support mental well-being in the workplace by offering flexible work arrangements, such as telecommuting or flexible schedules. This can help employees better manage their workload and personal responsibilities, reducing stress and anxiety.
Recognizing and addressing these vital issues at the workplace helps employees to experience a range of benefits, such as higher output, as employees are more likely to be energized and focused when they have a healthy work-life balance.
To understand further, let’s take a closer look at how offering mental health benefits the employees and their company.
The financial barriers that employees may face in accessing mental health care
One significant barrier that employees may face in accessing mental health care is financial problems. Mental health care can be expensive, and even with insurance, you may still have to pay a lot of money out of your pocket in copays or deductibles.
Some employees may not have health insurance coverage, making mental health care even more financially challenging. For those with insurance coverage, their plan may have limited mental health benefits or network providers, making it difficult to find the care they need.
The cost of mental health care can also deter individuals from seeking treatment. Employees may worry about the financial burden of seeking help, leading them to delay or avoid seeking care altogether. This can lead to a more significant mental health crisis down the line and harm their job performance and overall well-being.
Employers can help address the financial barriers to mental health care by offering comprehensive insurance coverage that includes mental health benefits. They can also provide flexible spending accounts (FSAs) or health savings accounts (HSAs) that can be used to cover mental health expenses. Offering employee assistance programs (EAPs) that provide counseling and support services can also help employees access mental health care at little or no cost.
By addressing the financial barriers to mental health care, employers can ensure that their employees can access the care they need to manage their mental health and well-being.
The benefits of offering mental health benefits to employees
Offering mental health benefits to employees plays a big role in creating a positive and supportive work environment. When employees have access to mental health services, they are better able to manage stress and mental health challenges, leading to improved overall well-being. By addressing mental health challenges, employees can be more productive, engaged, and motivated, leading to increased job satisfaction and retention. Additionally, offering mental health benefits can reduce absenteeism and presenteeism, ultimately leading to a healthier, more productive workplace. Providing mental health benefits is not only the right thing to do for employees, but it can also benefit employers by creating a positive company culture, improving staff retention, and boosting the bottom line.
Encourage a culture of openness
A culture of openness comes when leaders practice transparency, it enables employees to express their individual opinions more candidly and openly in group discussions.
A culture of openness includes creating a supportive environment where employees feel comfortable discussing mental health issues in the workplace without fear of stigma or discrimination.
In addition to providing resources, employers can create a culture of openness by openly discussing mental health and promoting mental health awareness. This can include organizing mental health awareness events, sharing stories of individuals who have overcome mental health challenges, and discussing the importance of mental health in the workplace.
By encouraging a culture of openness, employers can create a more supportive and accepting workplace.
The importance of employees feeling comfortable talking about their mental health
Creating an environment where employees feel comfortable talking about their mental health is essential for promoting mental health in the workplace. When employees feel comfortable discussing their mental health, they are more likely to seek help when they need it, which can lead to improved well-being and increased productivity.
If employees feel that discussing their mental health is stigmatized or taboo, they may be less likely to seek help or support, which can lead to mental health challenges going unaddressed. This can negatively impact their work performance and overall well-being.
Employers can help promote a culture of openness by providing mental health resources and training to employees, such as mental health first aid training. By providing resources and training, employees can become more knowledgeable about mental health issues and learn how to support their colleagues as well.
Strategies/Programs for promoting a culture of openness
An Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a valuable resource that employers can offer to their employees as part of promoting a culture of openness around mental health. EAPs typically provide confidential, short-term counseling and support services for employees and their families. These programs can address a range of issues, including stress, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and relationship problems.
EAPs can be offered as a stand-alone benefit or as part of a larger employee benefits package. By providing an EAP, employers can show their employees that they are committed to supporting their mental health and well-being. EAPs can also help to reduce the stigma around mental health by providing a safe and confidential space for employees to discuss their concerns.
In addition to counseling services, EAPs can also provide a range of other resources, such as online tools, educational materials, and referrals to other mental health professionals.
Promote work-life balance
Promoting work-life balance is crucial for supporting employee mental health and overall well-being. When employees can balance their work responsibilities with their personal and family needs, they are less likely to experience stress and burnout, which can negatively impact their mental health. Employers can promote work-life balance by offering flexible work arrangements, such as telecommuting and flexible schedules, and providing paid time off for vacation, personal days, and sick leave. Encouraging regular breaks throughout the day and setting boundaries around after-hours communication can also help employees disconnect and recharge. By recognizing the importance of balancing work demands with personal needs, companies can demonstrate their commitment to creating an environment that fosters both professional and personal growth.
The impact of overwork and high levels of stress on mental health
We all know that sitting at your desk for long hours has worrying effects on the human body, such as neck pains, shoulder aches, eye problems, etc. And overworking can result in mental health issues. As per Zippia, depression results in $26 billion in treatment expenses and $51 billion in absenteeism. Healthcare expenses for stressed-out employees are double those of other workers.
Overwork can also result in a lack of work-life balance, making it difficult for employees to engage in self-care and other activities that promote mental and physical well-being. Additionally, high levels of stress can cause physical symptoms such as headaches, digestive issues, and high blood pressure, which can exacerbate existing mental health problems.
Employers can take steps to reduce overwork and stress in the workplace, such as offering flexible work arrangements, providing resources and support for managing stress, and encouraging breaks and time off. By prioritizing employee mental health and reducing stress, employers can create a more positive work environment that promotes productivity and employee well-being.
Strategies for promoting work-life balance
Building a culture of work-life balance is easier said than done. Part of building a work-life balance is an honest commitment to creating and practicing strategies that genuinely help employees as well as the company.
Implementing small strategies such as encouraging employees to take regular breaks throughout the day can help prevent burnout and improve mental well-being. This can include encouraging employees to take a lunch break away from their desks, stretch or take a walk during their breaks, and avoid working during their breaks. Employers can also encourage employees to use their vacation time to take time off to recharge and engage in activities that promote their well-being. Providing opportunities for employees to engage in wellness activities such as yoga or mindfulness classes can also help lower levels of the stress hormone -cortisol, which can reduce feelings of anxiety and promote relaxation. Employers can create a more supportive work environment that prioritizes employee well-being, leading to a boost in work output efficiency, and enhanced employee commitment and loyalty.
Being supportive and being prepared
The conventional approach to mental health in the workplace used to involve ignoring the existence of mental health issues, but this is no longer effective. It’s essential for employees to feel comfortable bringing their complete selves to work, and when they do, they tend to thrive. And this is where employers can help in creating change.
This can include offering mental health benefits such as counseling and therapy, providing resources and support for managing stress, and being understanding and compassionate towards employees who may need to take time off for mental health reasons. Employers need to foster a culture of openness and encourage employees to speak up if they are struggling with their mental health. This can help to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and create a more supportive work environment. Employers can also provide training to managers and supervisors on how to recognize and respond to employees who may be struggling with mental health issues. By supporting mental health in the workplace, employers can create a more positive work environment and promote employee well-being.
Support employees struggling with their mental health
Providing support and accommodations for employees who are struggling with their mental health is crucial for both the well-being of the employees and the success of the company. Mental health challenges can impact an individual’s ability to function at work, which can lead to decreased productivity, and potentially even a loss of skilled talent. By offering support and accommodations such as mental health resources, flexible schedules, and adjustments to workloads, employers can demonstrate their commitment to employee well-being and create a positive work environment. Not only does this promote a culture of empathy and understanding, but it can also foster increased employee satisfaction, loyalty, and retention, ultimately leading to a more productive and successful workplace.
Examples of support and accommodations that employers can provide
Employers can offer paid time off or leave for mental health reasons, such as a mental health day or extended time off for treatment. Employers can also adjust workloads, provide clear communication and expectations, and offer workplace accommodations such as a quiet space or natural light. Furthermore, employers can promote mental health and wellness in the workplace by offering resources such as yoga or meditation classes, access to healthy food and exercise facilities, and stress management workshops. By providing a range of support and accommodations, employers can demonstrate their commitment to their employee’s mental health and create a supportive and productive work environment.
The need to focus on mental health programs in the workplace today
Mental health problems among employees are on the rise, affecting both individuals and companies significantly. The cost of productivity loss and healthcare services related to these issues are becoming alarmingly high, and companies must take steps to promote health and wellness in the workplace. An effective strategy could be to create a comprehensive approach that includes both in-office and outside benefits that prioritize both physical and mental health. Such an approach could be the most effective way to enhance the productivity and overall wellness of employees.
Improving corporate mental health can have numerous benefits for both employees and employers. For employees, improved mental health can lead to enhanced job engagement, better harmony at work, and reduced stress and burnout. When employees are mentally healthy, they are more likely to be engaged in their work, perform better, and be more productive, which can lead to career advancement opportunities.
By investing in employee mental health, employers can foster a positive and inclusive work culture, attract and retain skilled employees, and reduce the costs associated with employee turnover and recruitment. Additionally, companies that prioritize employee mental health are more likely to see reduced healthcare costs and improved overall employee health. Improved mental health in the workplace also has broader societal benefits, including reduced stigma around mental health, increased awareness of mental health issues, and a more positive and supportive community.
As a leader, recognizing and supporting your employees to balance work and life properly can tremendously help employees. You are providing them with time and resources to meet their cognitive needs. Having a one-on-one conversation to understand their needs. Sharing your difficulties and how you successfully addressed them, can inspire hope among others. To mitigate the mental health effects on employees, it is essential to evaluate individual and team workloads and make sure they are reasonable. If they are not, seek input from your staff to identify what adjustments are feasible, who can implement them, and within what timeframe, before taking action.
talent500
Harsha Satyakam
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