Companies that promote mental health are more likely to benefit financially.
World Economic Forum
Our understanding of mental health has developed significantly over the past few years. Many of us have become more sympathetic to the plight of those going through mental health crises. We are increasingly becoming more honest about those problems and the impact they can have on us.
It is also important to recognize that mental health is not just a personal concern. Companies should also pay close attention to the mental health of their employees.
While valuing the health of their employees should be the main reason why companies take an interest in mental health care, there is also a financial incentive for them. According to research conducted by the World Economic Forum, companies that promote mental health are more likely to benefit financially.
Create a workplace environment that cares for employee mental health by following the tips in this article.
Develop mental health support infrastructure for employees
Mental health concerns should be taken seriously. That’s why companies should create an infrastructure that their employees can lean on for mental health support.
Start by including mental health coverage in your company’s insurance plans. Make it easy for your employees to seek care when they need it.
Set up employee assistance programs (EAPs) that can prevent mental health crises from emerging. Give your employees the opportunity to resolve those issues before they get any worse.
Remember to also encourage your employees to utilize those resources if they need them.
Give managers and supervisors better support tools
Mental health issues fester in the workplace because they weren’t recognized early enough. It’s either that or the suffering employees never felt they could talk about their issues with anyone at the company.
You can resolve that issue by arming your managers and supervisors with the tools needed to provide strong mental health support.
Managers and supervisors spend more time with your employees so they are in a better position to spot signs of trouble. If they notice those warning signs, they can approach employees in a thoughtful manner and let them know that support is available if needed.
Be vocal about the importance of seeking help about mental health
Although we are generally more open to discussing mental health issues as a society, that doesn’t always hold true for the individual. There are still people out there who refuse to talk about these things.
The onus is on the companies and their leaders to demonstrate the importance of recognizing mental health crises.
Executives should take time out to discuss the mental health programs they’ve created. They should also encourage employees to take advantage of those resources if they need to.
Offer flexible working options whenever possible
Mental health issues could be related to working situations. Some of your employees may be struggling with their current working setup and they are thinking of quitting just to find relief.
Before things get to that point, you should discuss working options with your employees. Offer them whichever varied working setups you can. Make them more comfortable while working so you can help alleviate their stress.
The workplace can play a huge role in preserving the mental health of employees. Establish a workplace culture that values mental health by following the tips included here.
