Supporting employees with mental health conditions

In this article we’ll look at how best to support employees with mental health conditions.

Mental health is an important aspect of overall well-being, and it's something that affects us all. According to the World Health Organization, an estimated 1 in 4 people in the world will be affected by a mental health condition at some point in their lives. Employers have the opportunity to create a workplace culture that is supportive and inclusive of employees who are struggling with mental health conditions.

But why should businesses care about supporting their employees' mental health conditions? Not only is it the right thing to do from a moral standpoint, but there are also tangible benefits to the business as well. When employees feel supported and have access to resources to help them manage their mental health, they are more likely to be productive and engaged in their work. In fact, a study by the National Business Group on Health found that companies that prioritize employee mental health see an average return on investment of $1.50 for every $1 invested. By creating a supportive work culture and providing resources to support employees' mental health, businesses can benefit from increased productivity, lower absenteeism, and reduced healthcare costs.

But where to begin? As is often the case, the first step is to open a dialogue. Employers should begin by encouraging open communication and creating a safe space where employees feel comfortable discussing their mental health. Once a dialogue has been opened it's important to ensure that employees know where they can turn for support and resources if they need it. This could include:

• Mental health benefits

• On-site counselling services

• Proactive employee mental health support

According to a survey conducted by the National Business Group on Health, 82% of employees said that they would feel more comfortable discussing their mental health with their manager if their employer offered resources and support. Ensure that managers are aware of the support and resources that are available to their employees and how to refer employees to appropriate resources.

Work with the employee to determine what accommodations would be most helpful. For example, if an employee is struggling with anxiety, they may benefit from the ability to work from home on days when they are feeling particularly anxious.

Finally, it's important to educate your team about mental health. Provide information and resources to help employees understand mental health and reduce stigma. This could include things like brochures, articles, or workshops and training sessions. By taking these steps, you can create a supportive and inclusive workplace for employees with mental health conditions.

Supporting employees with mental health conditions is an important responsibility for employers, specifically HR managers. By creating a supportive work culture, providing resources and support, making accommodations as needed, and educating employees on mental health, HR managers can make a real difference in the lives of their employees and create a more inclusive and supportive workplace for everyone. Don't underestimate the impact that your actions can have on the mental health and well-being of your employees. Take action today to create a supportive and inclusive workplace for all. To understand more on creating proactive mental health strategies for your employees, visit us at https://www.okpositive.org or contact us at shonagh@okpositive.co.uk and we will be happy to talk you through some options!

Written by Shonagh McHugh