It incorporates cognitive, emotional, and behavioral well-being, a critical component of overall well-being; the fuel that propels the body, steering it to excellence or wreaking havoc. Employers need to prioritize mental health in the workplace considering mental health directly impacts productivity. By understanding what is at stake, employers can prioritize actions promoting mental health in the workplace.
Employers can:
1. Provide mental health resources.
A good employer should have their employee's best interests at heart and one of the best ways to cater to those interests is to avail mental health resources. These resources include employee assistance programmes (EAPs). EAPs are confidential counseling services provided by employers to help employees manage personal or work-related problems that may impact their mental health. EAPs are usually confidential to enable employees to feel comfortable seeking help without fear of negative consequences, such as retaliation or discrimination. Besides EAPS, other resources that employers can avail include free therapy services; mental health screening tools; wellness plans; mental health benefits, and services through insurance covers.
2. Provide education and Training to employees
Unfortunately, there is still a stigma surrounding mental health in many parts of the world. This stigma often arises from a lack of understanding and awareness of mental health conditions, leading to individuals feeling ashamed or embarrassed to seek help for their mental health concerns. Employers can change the narrative by educating employees on mental health challenges and fostering a culture of support, especially for affected parties. Education and training come in various forms such as hosting workshops and webinars on mental health, providing self-help books on mental health, and providing information on how best to seek help when undergoing a mental health crisis eg, mental health hotlines. Charity however begins at home therefore before employees are educated on mental health, there should be mental health training for managers so that they can work effectively to create an environment that supports mental health.
3. Create a healthy work culture
A healthy work culture is a culture that values the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of employees. Employers can foster this culture by encouraging open communication. Both employers and employees should feel comfortable discussing mental health issues. For example, during the training of employees, you as the employer can share your experience coping with mental health issues. This would not only foster a culture of open communication but also help employees feel comfortable and confident when seeking help. Additionally, employers should implement a culture of respect and inclusivity. This means creating a stigma-free environment. Measures and policies should be put in place to deal with stigmatization in the workplace. Moreover, employers should advocate for a healthy work environment by taking initiatives such as promoting work-life balance and creating ergonomic workspaces. Let your employees know that it is okay to take a break when they need it.
4. Address workplace Stress factors.
In my opinion, the best way to go about this is by conducting a managerial audit to effectively address issues from the source. Be hands-on with your managers, and let them be actively involved by conducting interviews with employees. If your employees are shy about communicating one on one, be innovative. Adopt other communication channels such as anonymous conversation. This could entail anonymous surveys or suggestion boxes. This way, as the employer you can work with your managerial team to reduce factors that contribute to mental health issues at work such as heavy workload, long working hours, unrealistic deadlines down right to how the higher-ups handle issues when feedback is relayed from employees. Strive to implement policies and practices that reduce workplace stress factors.
5. Establish employee support groups.
Employers can organize employee support groups that provide a safe space for employees to share their experiences and challenges related to mental health. It is important to recognize the fact that support groups are not only meant for employees with mental health issues. Individuals can join these groups to offer help and moral support to their colleagues. Additionally, employers can hold meetings to demonstrate the effectiveness of such groups such as the development of resilience and coping skills, which can help employees navigate future challenges and promote personal growth.
6. Encourage Physical Activity.
A study published in the Journal of Occupational Health Psychology in the year 2021 found that; employees who participated in a workplace physical activity program reported improved mental health, reduced stress levels, and increased job satisfaction. Some physical practices that employers can initiate at work to promote mental health include the creation of onsite fitness facilities such as gyms, the introduction of group fitness classes such as Zumba, introducing of active breaks, and team building activities. Physical activity has several advantages such as reduction of depression and anxiety, increased productivity and cognitive function, increased attention and retention, and improved quality of sleep which is critical for overall mental health and well-being.
7. Lead by Example.
A good leader will always lead by example. When you are the biggest advocate for mental health, your employees are more likely to follow suit. Create a culture where employees feel valued, supported, and empowered to prioritize their mental health. This can be done by following all the steps above and going the extra mile to conduct mental health campaigns. Good mental health translates to good productivity at work and a return on investment.
Overall, we all have a role to play in ensuring mental well-being. Employers can only do so much, therefore, everyone needs to take the initiative for their mental health. As an employee, you owe it to yourself to take care of your mental health. Begin by speaking out in case you have a problem. Secondly, take advantage of the mental health resources provided by employers. Prioritize self-care and most importantly, say no to stigma. The change starts with you!
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