In February 2020 we ran a blog “Mental Health and Wellbeing in the Workplace: Should we do more than just talk?” and as this week is Mental Health Awareness week, (15-21 May 2023), we thought it is a good opportunity to focus on this important issue again. The week is being coordinated by the Mental Health Foundation and the theme this year is “Anxiety”. Their aim is to provide a better understanding of anxiety and share ideas on how we can help ourselves and others for whom it has become a problem. All over the country events will be held connecting members of the community to talk about mental wellbeing.
With Mental Health Awareness Week gaining good media coverage, the drive to shed the stigma and the importance of discussing mental health at work has continued to grow. So why is this such an important topic in the workplace?
Mental health at work
According to a recent survey by Deloitte, Mental health issues are costing employers in the UK up to £56 billion a year through lost production, recruitment and absence, an increase of 25% compared to 2019. It is therefore unsurprising that in more and more businesses, mental health and wellbeing are becoming core components at the heart of their business strategy. Leaders that are actively championing the promotion of positive mental health at work, are seeing results with staff retention, and a positive impact with the lowering of absences.
External factors beyond the workplace will play a role in people’s mental health. Employers need to be mindful of these external factors and the circumstances and challenges that their employee’s face outside of work. But the focus here is on what you can do within the workplace to support mental health and wellbeing:
Let's talk about mental health
One of the biggest challenges of mental health is removing the stigma and promoting an environment which enables people to feel comfortable to discuss mental health issues. Many people do not feel the same type of difficulty in telling a colleague about a physical health problem, compared to a mental health problem.
Breaking down these barriers needs to be a collaborative process throughout an organisation. A business leader needs to work with their managers and employees, in providing a consistent and positive message about mental health. Staff with mental health issues need to be supported, as do their line managers, so that they are equipped and trained to recognise and deal with mental health issues, and how to best support staff. Engaging with the workforce at all levels will promote a culture of health and wellbeing.
Organisational change
One of the key challenges within the workplace that has an impact on people’s mental health and wellbeing is organisational change. A business facing challenges of downsizing or rapid growth and increased work-loads will have an impact on the stress levels of their workforce. How a business manages and communicates these changes, and engages with their workforce will have a big effect on their employee’s stress levels.
Employee empowerment
How can you help to empower your people? You can start by allowing them more control over their working lives, especially during periods of organisational uncertainty and change. By adopting frequent, clear and direct lines of communication with your employees, you will help to empower them. Give them a voice, but don’t just let them be heard, listen and act on what they are telling you. Always explain why decisions have been made and why for example, a certain request cannot be fulfilled. If you foster a workplace culture of open communication, people will feel comfortable and will trust the organisation, which will minimise anxiety and stress.
Mental health issues have a significant impact on employee wellbeing and on overall performance. It is also a cause of long-term absence. Employers need to promote good mental health practices and provide support for those employees with mental health problems, as well as training and supporting line managers who are supporting colleagues with mental health issues.
If you would like to know more about how you can support your employees with mental health problems in your business, call us today to speak with one of our experienced consultants.