Why mental health is taking centre stage in the workplace
- mental health
- April 18, 2023
For many years, mental illness has been stigmatized and misunderstood. People who struggle with mental health issues often face discrimination and negative attitudes, both in their personal lives and in the workplace. This has led to a culture of silence, where employees are afraid to speak up about their struggles for fear of being stigmatized or penalized.
In recent years, mental health has taken centre stage in the workplace. The COVID-19 pandemic brought mental health in the workplace to the forefront due to several reasons, including remote work, increased workload, uncertainty and stress, lack of social support, and stigma reduction. With many people working from home, there has been a lack of work-life balance, leading to burnout and stress.
The impact of mental health issues on employees’ well-being, productivity, and overall quality of life cannot be overstated. Ignoring mental health issues in the workplace can have serious consequences for both employees and employers.
Unaddressed mental health issues can lead to increased absenteeism, presenteeism, and decreased productivity. This can lead to decreased profitability and a negative impact on the overall success of the organization.
Employers prioritising mental health in their organizations are reaping the benefits of a happier, healthier, and more productive workforce. By creating a supportive and inclusive work environment, employers can:
- Improve employee morale and engagement: Employees who feel supported and valued are more engaged in their work and are more likely to be loyal to their employers.
- Increase productivity: Employees who are mentally healthy are more productive and able to perform their job duties to the best of their ability.
- Reduce absenteeism and presenteeism: Addressing mental health issues can reduce absenteeism and presenteeism, which can have a positive impact on the organization’s bottom line.
- Attract and retain top talent: Employers who prioritize mental health in the workplace can attract and retain top talent who value a supportive and inclusive work environment.
Employers can prioritize mental health in the workplace by:
- Offering mental health benefits: Employers can offer mental health benefits such as counselling services, employee assistance programs, and mental health days.
- Creating a supportive work environment: Employers can create a supportive work environment by promoting open communication, creating a culture of respect and inclusivity, and providing opportunities for employee feedback.
- Educating employees: Employers can educate employees on mental health issues and provide resources for self-care and stress management.
- Leading by example: Employers can lead by example by prioritizing their own mental health and promoting a culture of work-life balance.
It’s time for employers to take a proactive approach to mental health and prioritize the well-being of their employees. Prioritizing mental health in the workplace is not only the right thing to do, but it is also beneficial for both employees and employers.
