The counselor listens to the young adult and takes notes for their next meeting.
In the high-stakes environment of the modern workplace, mental health has never been more important. As we emerge from the pandemic figuring out how to balance our new hybrid models, the challenges are vast. The good news, though, is that more and more workplaces are willing to invest in their employees’ mental health. Fortunately, we’ve written up a few effective strategies for organizations to support mental health in their workplaces.
Acknowledge It
The first step in managing mental health problems at work is to acknowledge their existence. It’s really hard to combat a problem that you pretend doesn’t exist. Mental health issues—ranging from stress to anxiety to burnout to depression—can happen to anyone, and they significantly impact people’ well-being. The first step is really just talking about it—if it’s out in the open, your team won’t be quite as afraid to discuss it.
Foster Openness
Employers should encourage openness about mental health and provide resources to make it easier to get mental health treatment. When employees feel safe to acknowledge their mental health without fear of judgment or repercussions, it destigmatizes mental health issues in general. Shame has never helped anyone (except maybe Eve, who got cool clothes out of it), so make sure your team knows it’s okay to need help. That said, you don’t want to pressure anyone to open up if they don’t want to. People have very real concerns about revealing information regarding their mental health, so make sure that the resources are available to those who want to access them, but that openness is not mandatory.
Be Flexible
Flexible work arrangements can significantly alleviate mental health struggles. The more options you give your team, the more flexibility they have in caring for their own mental health. Choices such as remote work, flexible hours, and part-time schedules allow employees to work in ways that best suit their needs. By accommodating your team, employers can play a critical role in reducing stress. This way, your team has the time to manage their mental health, whether or not they want to open up about it at work.
Encourage Time Off
Vacation is literally the point of work. Not really, but it is critical. But not just a few weeks a year—regular breaks throughout the day and taking time off are vital for helping employees maintain their mental well-being. Encouraging employees to step away from their desks and utilize their vacation time helps prevent burnout. And it starts with the upper management—take your own vacation. It’s good for your team. Literally, go to Costa Rice. Right now. For your team.
Provide Access to Mental Health Resources
Offering access to mental health resources is a great way to support employees. In fact, it’s like...the best way. This can include providing health insurance that covers mental health services or access to counseling or therapy. By investing in mental health resources, employers can commit to the well-being of their workforce.
Promote Overall Wellness
Basically every study ever has shown that physical health is linked to mental health. Employers can support their employees' mental and physical well-being by promoting wellness initiatives such as fitness challenges, healthy and free lunch, or free gym memberships. Furthermore, encouraging work-life balance in general gives your team the time they need to participate in their own health and wellness practices. And again, you should go get a massage. As an example. For your team.
