The importance of mental health awareness in the workplace is a growing issue. As a result of isolation and uncertainty from the global health pandemic, mental health issues are becoming more prominent now than ever. This ever-growing issue is one that affects not only those in the workplace but in their home lives as well, thus impacting one’s overall performance in the workplace.
With this in mind, we want to share with you five tips to help improve mental health awareness in your workplace below.
Five tips to help improve mental health awareness in your workplace
1. Creating a safe space where your employees can talk about their mental health
Take this opportunity to bring light to mental health awareness and check in with your employees and colleagues. The simplest thing, such as asking about everyone’s day and how they are, can make all the difference. We recommend providing a safe and non-judgmental space where employees can chat. Some of our favourites include Slack, Zoom, and Simplr. With Slack, you can create a channel encouraging conversations for anyone who wants to join. Zoom allows employees to be face-to-face regularly, where they can connect and converse. While Simplr is a great way for those working online to stay connected.
2. Offering mental health resources
One major issue in the workplace these days is the lack of mental health resources such as coaching and counselling services. A great resource to look into for this support is Boon Health. This platform is a great way to help employees feel empowered and supported with customized coaching options.
3. Creating a mental health time off policy
It is essential that employees feel comfortable seeking time off work for their mental health in the same way they would for their physical health. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, one in five adults in the United States experiences mental illness in a given year. This means that in a workplace with five employees, at least one is likely dealing with a mental health issue.
4. Having conversations around mental well-being
The stigma around mental well-being, unfortunately, still exists. It is more crucial than ever to help break that stigma by making mental health conversations a part of our everyday lives. Without doing so, workplace environments can become toxic and unhealthy environments. Make talking about mental health part of the norm by celebrating Mental Health Awareness Month and Mental Health Awareness Day in your office. Provide your employees with activities and resources to recognize the day.
5. Having mental health support in employee wellness benefits
As a company, it is your responsibility to help ensure good mental well-being for your employees. As part of your wellness benefits, you can offer well-being coaching, counselling services, access to mediation apps etc.
By implementing the slightest changes in your day-to-day operations as a business, you can significantly impact your employees’ mental health and well-being. Share with us in the comments below what some fun ideas, activities, or policies your company has implemented to ensure good employee mental health.
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