A Culture of Mental Health in the Workplace
October 10th marks Mental Health Day—a time when most businesses voice their support and generate content around the subject. However, it's a topic that deserves attention all year round.
The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that anxiety and depression cost the global economy $1 trillion annually in lost productivity. Beyond individual productivity, these issues also impair collective performance, impacting job interest and communication.
Based on data from the European Health Survey, in Spain, young people appear to be more vulnerable when it comes to mental health. Around 35% of those between 18 and 34 years old report having mental health issues. This percentage drops to 27% for those between 35 and 54 years old, and to 16% for those older than 55.
It's incumbent upon business leaders to regularly meet with their team members to stay informed about their well-being and mental health. Fortunately, mental health is no longer a taboo subject as it was for a long time. The best way to break down existing barriers is to normalize these conversations and address them naturally. Businesses should be interested in the holistic well-being of their employees, not just their work performance.
So, how can companies safeguard their employees' mental health?
There are several strategies businesses can employ to protect their employees' mental health:
Normalize discussions about mental health: Eradicating the stigma associated with mental health issues is crucial. Businesses should take the first step in this direction.
Identify problems early: A Human Resources team or the leaders themselves can help spot potential problems. The earlier the situation is understood, the better the outcomes.
Hold regular positive feedback meetings: Recognition and support are key to enhancing employee well-being. Feedback meetings should be paired with a development plan and improvement proposals.
Use tools to understand the mental health of workers: Surveys and updated benefits plans are some of the tools that can help grasp the mental health status of employees.
Taking it a step further, creating a workplace culture that values trust and open communication is pivotal. A supportive environment not only helps employees feel comfortable discussing their mental health, but it also promotes better team cohesion, leading to higher productivity and overall job satisfaction.
In fostering such a culture, business leaders need to lead by example. By being open about their struggles, they can set the tone for transparent conversations and a stigma-free workspace. Employee wellness initiatives, flexible work schedules, and regular team-building activities can also contribute significantly to mental health awareness and improvement.
If you're interested in learning more, at SFAI Human Capital Solutions, we provide tailor-made solutions for each company and culture. Mental health is fundamental for the well-being and overall performance of a company. Reach out to us to work together and create a healthy and productive work environment.
