HOW MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT SETS UP YOUR BUSINESS FOR SUCCESS

HOW MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT SETS UP YOUR BUSINESS FOR SUCCESS

Experts say we were in the midst of a mental health crisis even before the COVID-19 pandemic hit most of the world in 2020. The past two years expedited that foreseen crisis, and possibly even worsened it. In fact, the World Health Organization reported that although 89% of countries mentioned that mental health and psychosocial support are part of their COVID-19 response plans, only 17% of these countries have the full funding for them. 

It will take each and everyone of us to help alleviate the impact of these stressors of anxiety and depression, and one way to start is in the workplace. Ask yourself: What’s it like to work where you work? While, generally, more people openly discuss barriers and struggles that concern mental health, there is still a need to bridge the gap between the physical and the mental healthcare being provided by employers, because work can cause mental health problems or make mental health problems worse.

Especially in the context of the pandemic, this mental health crisis is an opportunity for companies to support their employees in a way that is impactful and valuable to them. Good mental health and good management come as a pair. When employees thrive, businesses thrive. This is critical to business success. 

Here are some steps we would recommend that employers take:

1. Cultivate a level of mental health intervention where the entire organization, from staff to CEO, is involved.

2. Mental health is different for everyone. Managers and leads must get to know their team and understand what they need. Make sure everyone has a good knowledge of common mental health problems and early signs that can range from distraction and poor concentration to irritability.

3. In the same way that managers and leads look after their teams’ mental health, they need to make sure they look after theirs, too.

4. Research and try different mental health programs and training available. Talk to us about our Silver Lining Hopeline and other mental health services by sending an email to [email protected]

5. Make reasonable adjustments in the workplace. These can be as small as praising or giving credit where it is due or as big as looking for development opportunities for each employee and restructuring departments or the entire organization.

It’s important that we become champions of mental health by doing more than just talking about it. For most of us, work is a part of everyday life, and if the workplace can play a pivotal role in a person’s mental health to improve their quality of life and to help them find their sense of purpose, it’s good for everyone and it’s good for business.

Be the positive change in your company, and improve culture and workplace well-being with opportunities for mental health support through Bnfts’ Silver Lining Hopeline and other mental health services  in partnership with e-BI Solutions. These services range from a dedicated peer support hopeline to creating a physical wellness program and coaching to organizational development and employee engagement. We are sure you’ll find something for you and your team. If interested, send an e-mail to [email protected].