In recent years, mental health has become a significant concern globally. People are now more vocal about mental health, which reduces associated stigmas.
However, the consequences of mental health struggles are often still not widely talked about in many workplaces. May is a great time to raise awareness of those living with mental health issues because it is Mental Health Awareness Month. Improving mental health awareness in the workplace can help employees better understand the gravity of these struggles, which can lead to a kinder and more empathetic work environment.
Harvard Business Review (HBR) published an article in 2021 titled, “It’s a New Era for Mental Health at Work,” which examines a study by Mind Share Partners about the employee mental health experience. In its Mental Health at Work Report, Mind Share Partners compares the state of mental health, stigma and work culture in U.S. workplaces in 2019 and 2021 during the pandemic.
Outlined below are key findings and data points from the study.
According to the study, individuals who felt supported by their employer tended to be less likely to experience mental health symptoms, to underperform and miss work, and more likely to feel comfortable talking about their mental health at work.
The HBR article reasons that “given all the workplace factors at play, companies can no longer compartmentalize mental health as an individual’s responsibility to address alone through self-care, mental health days, or employee benefits.” Instead, companies must view mental health as a collective priority.
One of the best ways to accomplish this goal is through a culture change. A workplace culture that promotes supervisor support and provides a safe space for honest discussions can destigmatize mental health and encourage employees to get help.
Thankfully, employees are talking about mental health at work more than in 2019. These open, honest conversations are a step in the right direction. In addition, there are several ways companies can mold their culture to prioritize mental health awareness. A few ideas include:
Implementing mental health awareness initiatives is an excellent step toward creating a better workplace environment. Companies that prioritize mental health demonstrate they genuinely value their employees’ well-being – and when employees are healthy and cared for, they can bring their best selves to work.
Tags: coworkers, Diversity, Employee Advocacy, employee engagement, empowering employees, equity, gen Z, Generation Z, inclusion, inclusive workplace, inclusivity, Mental Health, Millennials, work environment, workplace, Workplace communication Filed under: Career, COMMUNIQUÉ PR, Diversity, Remote Work, Spirit, WORK