Prioritizing Mental Health in the Workplace:
A Path to Employee Well-being

May 13, 2023

The financial sector turmoil, ongoing effects of the war in Ukraine, high inflation, and three years of COVID have made the global outlook uncertain once again. In today's fast-paced and demanding work environment, it is becoming increasingly important for organizations to prioritize the mental health and well-being of their employees. As the owner of an HR consultancy company, with an extensive experience in the technology industry, I understand the significance of addressing mental health challenges faced by employees and placing people’s health and well-being at the center of my HR and culture strategies. In honor of Mental Health Month, I would like to emphasize the importance of creating a supportive workplace culture that fosters positive mental health. In this article, we will explore the impact of mental health on employee welfare, the benefits of prioritizing mental health in the workplace, and practical strategies for promoting mental wellness among your workforce.

The World Health Organization has defined “Mental Health” as a state of mental well-being that enables people to cope with the stresses of life, realize their abilities, learn well and work well, and contribute to their community. It is an integral component of health and well-being that underpins our individual and collective abilities to make decisions, build relationships and shape the world we live in. Mental Health is a basic human right. And it is crucial to personal, community, and socio-economic development. (more)

Let’s now shift our focus to the organization and the impact of Mental Health on employee well-being. Mental health issues such as stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact an individual's overall well-being and performance in the workplace. These are not solely influenced by a person’s own environment, daily challenges and family dynamics but can also be triggered by work overload, lack of vision, strategy, and tangible results. As an outcome, we have decreased productivity, increased absenteeism, and even higher turnover rates. This situation is far from being a win-win for any employee or organization. However, by acknowledging the influence of mental health on employees, organizations can take proactive steps to create an environment that supports their mental well-being and thus positively impact their business.

What are the benefits of prioritizing Mental Health in the workplace?

Enhanced Productivity: When employees feel supported and mentally healthy, they are more likely to be engaged and motivated in their work. This, in turn, leads to increased productivity and better performance. Good leadership practices and investment in efficient communication provide employees with job security and direction, thereby boost their productivity.

Reduced Absenteeism and Turnover: By investing in mental health initiatives, organizations can help reduce absenteeism rates and decrease the likelihood of talented employees leaving the company. This way, the focus can be on developing and improving the existing talent rather than investing efforts into hiring new employees, which is often a long and demanding process.

Positive Organizational Culture: Prioritizing mental health sends a powerful message that the organization values its employees' well-being, leading to a positive workplace culture and improved employee satisfaction. It also improves the organization's positioning as an employer of choice. Company values that reinforce a commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB), a culture of appreciation, psychological safety, and self-care implicitly promote mental health. These are all elements of mentally healthy work environments.

Practical Strategies for Promoting Mental Wellness:

Open Communication: Encourage open and honest conversations about mental health. Provide opportunities for employees to share their concerns or seek support, fostering a culture of trust and psychological safety. Remember the teachings of Amy Edmondson and her focus on psychological safety and how it benefits organizations? If not, dig into it.

Mental Health Awareness Training: Educate employees and leaders about common mental health challenges, their signs and symptoms, and strategies for self-care and seeking help when needed. Organize workshops, encourage active participation, and promote an organizational culture where employees can freely talk about their own mental health challenges. 

Flexible Work Arrangements: If possible, offer flexible work options, such as remote work or flexible hours, to accommodate individual needs and promote work-life balance. Remote work is a matter of routine and discipline and fearing that you have no control over it is oftentimes groundless. Set your own agreements with employees on what’s expected of them regardless of the work environment they prefer to be in and make yourself available when needed. Set expectations in your HR professionals to support and check on the “quiet” people and engage them in online team activities that could contribute to their mental health, lack of confidence, or any other challenges they might have.

Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): Implement EAPs that provide confidential counseling and support services to employees and their families. Many European and worldwide health organizations advise that health insurers should provide the same coverage for mental health treatment as they do for physical health care. Check with your company’s health insurers on what coverage they could provide and be flexible in adopting these new practices within your organization.

Break Stigma: Challenge the stigma surrounding mental health by promoting a non-judgmental and inclusive work environment where employees feel comfortable discussing their mental health without fear of discrimination. Talking about mental health is not some abstract mumbo jumbo that employers use to position themselves as modern organizations. It’s an actual pain that the modern world is challenged to face every day and the more we act on it the more trustworthy we become.

By prioritizing mental health in the workplace, organizations can create an environment that supports employee well-being, enhances productivity, and fosters a positive organizational culture. As HR, People and Culture professionals, it is crucial for us to recognize the significance of mental health and implement strategies that promote mental wellness. Let us embrace Mental Health Month as an opportunity to take proactive steps toward building mentally healthy workplaces where employees can thrive both personally and professionally. Let us make a positive difference in the lives of our employees and contribute to a healthier and more productive workforce.

Warmly,

Juliana

Founder, Synchro