Stressing need to protect workers’ mental health

MANY organisations are realising the benefits of creating mentally healthy workplaces.

Employees who experience wellbeing at work are more productive, produce higher quality work and take less unplanned leave.

Showing compassion for employees creates a supportive and inclusive workplace in which everybody benefits.

Yet, even with such advantages, it can feel like a minefield for employers looking to implement beneficial mental health strategies.

Business owners unsure of where to start should look to education. A big barrier to workplace wellness is the stigma that exists around mental health, and this can stop employees from seeking support.

Initiatives like mental health education programs help to create a safe space for struggling employees to speak up. Organisations that talk openly about mental health and give managers the tools to deal with workers experiencing difficulties are far more likely to address performance or absence concerns and create a plan that helps the employee.

Mental health issues should really be treated just as seriously as any other safety concern at work.

Savvy employers taking workplace mental health seriously are turning to preventive strategies.

Research confirms workplace stress can increase the risk of developing a mental health issue. And, with Australians working more overtime and failing to switch off after work, this finding should be a big wake-up call for bosses who don’t believe they have a role in keeping their people mentally well.

Proven preventive stress reduction approaches include cognitive behavioural therapy programs.

Employers looking to make the case to invest in these programs – as they can be costly – should do a proper analysis of their workforce to understand the risk exposure for their people.

Contrary to popular belief, it has been recently discovered that relaxation techniques and meditation are far less effective for stress management.

Finally, it’s important not to overlook the little things.

Preparing leaders to support their employees with mental health issues and treating preventive strategies as a business improvement program is critical.

Organisations that shrug off the risks won’t be able to keep up with managing a contemporary workforce, as this is an issue that impacts one in five Australians.

We can expect more engagement from our employees if businesses provide a harmonious, safe environment where people know they will be supported if they have mental health issues.

MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES SHOULD REALLY BE TREATED JUST AS SERIOUSLY AS ANY OTHER SAFETY CONCERN AT WORK