World Mental Health Day

It’s World Mental Health Day, which always acts as an opportunity to reflect and evaluate. For employers, this can be a key moment to improve workplace wellbeing for your people. With around 1 in 6 people experiencing mental health problems in the workplace, it is vital to not overlook such a widespread topic. There are some ways that you can prioritise employee wellbeing, and put workplace culture at the forefront.

While it may sound obvious, leading with empathy goes a long way. Being patient, understanding, and approachable can help to reduce stress when it comes to workplace issues. When people are battling with their own mental health struggles, the last thing that they need is to worry about being intimidated at work. Taking the time, thinking about their point of view, and being compassionate can help to open up the channels of communication, and find solutions.

On the topic of communication, holding space for conversations around mental health is key to breaking down stigma. Creating a judgement-free space and promoting your wellbeing offerings loud and proud may just be what people need, but are struggling to express. Conveying the importance of a work-life balance is also necessary to create healthy relationships with work. Demonstrating this through flexible working and openness to workplace adjustments is how you can walk the walk.

A fundamental way to provide support for employee mental health is offering a comprehensive Employee Assistance Programme (EAP). Sometimes further resources and expert advice go beyond what HR can personally give, so giving that extra safety net through an external source can be the most effective solution. Opting for an employee benefits platform that includes an EAP provides that support without the additional admin.

For more resources around World Mental Health Day, check out WorldMentalHealth.org.