The importance of mental health and well-being in the workplace cannot be overstated. With the average person spending around 90,000 hours at work over their lifetime, employers must prioritise the mental well-being of their employees. In this article, we’ll explore the significance of mental health in the workplace, the benefits of prioritising wellbeing, and practical strategies for creating a supportive work environment.
Mental health issues are more prevalent in the workplace than many realise. Four people experience mental health issues each year, and it costs UK businesses £30-40 billion annually. Half of work-related absences are due to mental health issues. Prioritising mental health in the workplace yields numerous benefits, such as improved productivity and performance, enhanced employee engagement and motivation, reduced absenteeism and presenteeism, better staff retention and recruitment, and improved reputation and brand.
To support mental health in the workplace, effective strategies include providing comprehensive mental health training programs for managers and employees, monitoring and managing workload and stress levels, and supporting employee-led initiatives and networks such as peer support groups and wellness committees. A supportive work environment encompasses various elements, like creating a robust mental health policy and strategy, appointing mental health champions and ambassadors, providing quiet spaces and well-being rooms, encouraging team-building and social activities, and promoting work-life balance.
How can employers measure the effectiveness of their mental health support initiatives? They can do so through various methods including employee surveys and feedback forms, monitoring key metrics like absenteeism rates, employee turnover, and productivity levels, and tracking the utilisation rates of mental health resources and services such as Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs). Conducting regular assessments and reviews of mental health policies and programs ensures they remain relevant and effective.
Several companies have successfully implemented mental health support programs in their workplaces. For example, Unilever’s “Well-being Framework” focuses on physical, mental, emotional, and purposeful well-being, offering resources such as mental health training and resilience programs. Deloitte’s “Mental Health Champions” initiative trains employees to support colleagues facing mental health issues, creating a peer-support network. The “Thrive” program at Accenture includes an app providing personalised tips and resources for managing stress and maintaining mental health. These examples highlight diverse approaches to fostering a mentally healthy work environment.
Prioritising mental health and well-being in the workplace is imperative for creating a supportive and productive environment. By understanding the prevalence of mental health issues, recognising the benefits of prioritising well-being, and implementing practical strategies, employers can reduce stigma, improve employee well-being, and enhance business performance, thereby ensuring a mentally healthy workplace for all.
Written by Mabel Oboh
