Investing in mental health in the workplace is good for your people and good for your business. According to the CDC, 1 in 5 adults will experience a diagnosable mental illness in any given year. More than half of those individuals will go untreated. When employees receive treatment for mental illnesses, the result is reduced medical expenses, increased efficiency, lower absenteeism, and decreased overall labor costs. Keeping your employees healthy – both physically and mentally – is the first step to improving their quality of life, which is the foundation of a thriving workplace. 

The PHR certified HR specialists at Exodus HR Group have developed several tools to help you support mental health in your workplace:

Be Aware

Studies show that one out of every 5 adults in our country will experience a mental health condition in any given year, and a person’s place of work can be an important part of their recovery. Making sure your management team is trained to recognize the signs of a struggling team member is vital to creating a supportive work environment. Do research to learn what mental illness looks like, or take a course or workshop so you can support your team in this area. Recognition is the first step to recovery.

Tools

Make a mental health self-assessment tool available to all employees, and consider implementing an Employee Assistance Program or EAP. An Employee Assistance Program is a voluntary, work-based program that offers free and confidential assessments, short-term counseling, referrals, and follow-up services to employees who have personal and/or work-related challenges. These programs are designed to offer solutions to employees anytime a situation arises and mental health support is needed.

Understanding

Employers must view mental health challenges from a place of empathy and compassion. Mental health disorders are among the most common and the most burdensome health concerns in the United States. By removing the stigma associated with depression, anxiety, etc., company leaders will empower struggling employees to seek the treatment they need. Managers should always be open, honest, and respectful when discussing mental health with employees. They should also maintain and prioritize confidentiality when it comes to mental health communication with employees. 

Atmosphere

The office can be an optimal environment to cultivate a culture of health. One of the best ways to create an atmosphere that supports mental health is to ensure people experience their jobs in a meaningful and purposeful way. This can be achieved by giving employees autonomy and resources. Employers can also create and maintain dedicated quiet spaces for relaxation activities like yoga and meditation. Team leaders should promote face-to-face social connections amongst their team, and always take the time to reflect on positive experiences by expressing happiness and gratitude.

 

If you or your employees find yourself in crisis, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) by visiting https://www.samhsa.gov/ or calling 1-800-662-HELP (4357)

During these unprecedented times, you may feel overwhelmed with questions and feelings of uncertainty. Rely on your team at Exodus to help you navigate through the distractions. Here at Exodus HR Group, we find fulfillment in delivering our services in a very personal way to each of our clients and their employees. We seek to be your anchor during this storm. It is a blessing to see each client succeed and to be able to assist them through the challenges that every employer encounters. This is our mission; this is our ministry.