In today’s fast-paced and demanding work environment, employers must prioritize the mental well-being of their staff. A plethora of research has shown that employees may face various mental health challenges, such as stress, anxiety, or burnout. Of concern, mental health began to deteriorate when the pandemic arose. Anxiety, stress, or burnout levels have not returned to pre-pandemic levels. Furthermore, carers, single parents, females, those belonging to ethnic groups, those with enduring long-term health conditions and young adults (those between 18-24) were likely to experience significantly higher rates (closer to 90%) of poor mental health compared to the general population (approximately 50%). 

Unfortunately, nearly 70% of staff will not tell their employers if they are struggling because of the stigma or potential repercussions. 

As a responsible and caring employer, creating a supportive culture that encourages employees to seek help when needed is essential. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of mental health support, backed by research, and provide practical tips to foster a supportive environment for your staff.

Why is Mental Health Support Important? Research consistently highlights the significant impact of mental health on employee productivity, engagement, and overall job satisfaction. According to a study conducted by the World Health Organization, depression and anxiety disorders cost the global economy around $1 trillion per year in lost productivity. Creating a supportive workplace encouraging seeking help can significantly reduce these costs and promote a healthy work environment.

Tips to Encourage Staff to Seek Support:

1. Promote Open Communication: Encourage an open and non-judgmental environment where employees feel comfortable discussing their mental health concerns. Regularly communicate with your staff about the importance of mental well-being and share available resources or support options.
2. Training and Education: Provide training sessions or workshops on mental health awareness and stress management techniques. Educating all your staff about mental health increases their knowledge. It reduces stigma, making it easier for them to seek support without fear of judgment.
3. Lead by Example: As a leader, it’s crucial to prioritize your mental health and demonstrate healthy behaviours. Share your experiences with managing stress or seeking support, emphasizing its positive impact on your well-being. Leading by example encourages your staff to do the same.
4. Needs-Driven Provisions: Take the time to speak to staff and establish what would suit their needs. This may include counselling and support services helping individuals cope with personal or work-related challenges and reducing the stigma around seeking professional help. However, this might be a workshop from a specialist regarding sleep hygiene – be responsive and driven by staff needs. 
5. Flexible Work Arrangements: The pandemic has taught us that (nearly) all jobs can be performed remotely. Implement flexible work arrangements, such as remote work options or flexible hours, which can support employees in managing their mental health more effectively. Flexibility allows individuals to prioritize self-care and seek support without disrupting work responsibilities.
6. Regular Check-Ins: Schedule regular one-on-one meetings with your staff to discuss their well-being, workload, and any challenges they may be facing. Actively listen and provide support, ensuring they feel heard and valued. Regular check-ins foster trust and encourage employees to reach out when they need help.
7. Provide Resources: Share information about mental health resources, such as therapy services, helplines, or online support groups. Create a central repository of mental health resources within your organization, making it easily accessible to all employees.
8. Destigmatize Mental Health: Organize awareness campaigns or events to destigmatize mental health issues. Encourage discussions about mental well-being (as a regular agenda item at team meetings), share success stories, and emphasize that seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Creating a workplace culture that encourages employees to seek support when they feel mentally challenged is essential for their overall well-being and productivity. By implementing the tips mentioned above, you can foster an environment where individuals feel safe, supported, and empowered to prioritize their mental health. Remember, supporting your staff’s mental well-being is an investment that benefits your employees and your organization.