How to Promote Mental Health and Well-Being in the Workplace?

Did you know that over half of employees say they’d feel more motivated and more likely to recommend their organisation as a good place to work if their company took action to support the mental well-being of its employees?

Furthermore, extensive research has been done on the link between mental health and the workforce, and reports show that untreated mental health issues are costing employers billions each year through consequences like absenteeism and lower productivity.

Wellness programs are more than a “nice job perk” and have become an essential tool for sustaining a positive, thriving culture, encouraging emotional and intellectual engagement, and creating a more resilient, productive workforce.

Above all, when implementing a wellness program at work – especially one that goes beyond physical wellness – you must consider how much time your population spends at work. It’s safe to say that the organisations we work for have a significant impact on our quality of life.

Creating awareness

Break the silence and stigma by talking about mental health, sharing stories, educating your staff, and inviting speakers and third-party services to employee meetings and events. There’s a lot you can do to create awareness, get people thinking and talking, and jump-start engagement, but it’s important that each method works to empower employees.

Encouraging an open and ongoing dialogue

The importance of transparent communications when promoting a cultural shift to acknowledge mental, emotional, and financial health is monumental. No matter how effective a wellness program could be, your employees must feel safe and comfortable before they engage.

Improving working conditions

Encourage self-care, mental health, exercise and non-judgemental speech during work hours. Allow employees to work where they feel productive and inspired. Provide employees with alternative areas to hang out or conduct business in. Allow employees to take a break and get out of the office when they need to.