About 12 years ago, I was asked to help an organisation to help them think about staff wellbeing. It was a small start up company running on tight deadlines. My proposal got laughed at for being too soft. I don’t believe they are around any more. Mental health and wellbeing is a touchy subject for many.

On World Mental Health Day 10th October 2024, we turn our attention to a critical but often overlooked area: workplace mental health. With many people spending a significant portion of their lives at work, it’s vital to acknowledge the impact our work environment has on our mental well-being. Supporting mental health in the workplace not only helps individuals thrive but can also boost productivity, morale, retention and overall organisational success. So, what exactly is workplace mental health, and how can we create environments that promote it?

What is Workplace Mental Health?

Workplace mental health refers to the emotional, psychological, and social well-being of employees in their work environment. It encompasses how people feel about their jobs, how well they manage stress, and how they interact with colleagues. A mentally healthy workplace is one where employees feel valued, supported, and empowered to perform their best without compromising their well-being.

Signs of Poor Mental Health at Work

Recognizing the signs of poor mental health is the first step toward fostering a more supportive workplace. Some common indicators include:

• Increased Absenteeism: Employees regularly calling in sick or frequently arriving late might be struggling with mental health issues.
• Reduced Productivity: Difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness, or a noticeable decline in the quality of work can signal distress.
• Changes in Behavior: Sudden shifts in mood, withdrawal from team interactions, or uncharacteristic irritability may indicate that an employee is experiencing stress, anxiety, or depression.
• Physical Symptoms: Chronic headaches, fatigue, or muscle tension can result from long-term stress or burnout.
• Decreased Job Satisfaction: Employees expressing dissatisfaction, cynicism, or a lack of motivation could be struggling with poor mental health.
• Social Withdrawal: Avoiding social interactions, declining group activities, or becoming isolated from coworkers may signal emotional struggles.

Tips to Foster Good Mental Health at Work

Creating a mentally healthy workplace requires deliberate actions from both employers and employees. Here are practical tips to promote well-being:

1. Encourage Open Communication

• Foster a culture where employees feel comfortable discussing their mental health without fear of stigma. Regular check-ins, open-door policies, and mental health training for managers can help create a supportive environment.

2. Promote Work-Life Balance

• Encourage employees to take regular breaks, use their vacation time, and set clear boundaries between work and personal life. Flexible working hours or remote work options can also reduce stress.

3. Provide Mental Health Resources

• Offer access to mental health services, such as counselling or Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs). Employers can also share mental health resources and information through workshops, webinars, or wellness programs.

4. Recognize and Address Burnout

• Be proactive in recognizing signs of burnout, such as exhaustion, disengagement, or decreased performance. Offering support through workload adjustments, rest periods, or mental health days can help employees recover.

5. Create a Positive Work Environment

• Promote a positive and inclusive culture where employees feel appreciated and respected. Recognize achievements, encourage collaboration, and discourage toxic behaviours like bullying or harassment.

6. Provide Training and Development

• Offering professional development opportunities can boost employees' confidence and job satisfaction. Feeling valued and empowered in their roles can contribute to better mental health.

7. Encourage Physical Activity

• Physical health and mental health are deeply connected. Encourage employees to engage in physical activities, whether through lunchtime walks, on-site fitness programs, or discounted gym memberships.

While I am a counselling psychologist offering individual therapy and couples counselling, I do get the odd request from organisations to run workshops for their staff. One of my favorite, projects was during the COVID lockdowns to support staff, I ran a 8 week online programme and had measured work satisfaction and wellbeing before and after. There was a significant boost in morale and satisfaction from before and after the programme. Having staff check in once a week to focus on their wellbeing had a huge impact on their morale and increased their affinity to the company.

Conclusion

Workplace mental health is essential for the well-being of employees and the success of organisations. By recognizing the signs of poor mental health and implementing strategies to support mental well-being, we can create environments where employees thrive. This World Mental Health Day, let’s commit to fostering workplaces where mental health is prioritised and everyone feels supported.