Millions of people around the world are affected by serious mental health problems. Unfortunately, talking about mental health in the workplace has long been taboo due to stigma and fear. Fostering a culture that values honesty and open discussion about mental health is essential to supporting employee well-being. It can be difficult to have honest conversations about mental health in the workplace. While many employers try to foster a culture that supports mental health, not everyone feels comfortable talking about it, especially at work.
Why it’s important to talk about mental health in the workplace
No matter your position in the workforce, mental health is a critical component of overall wellbeing and it affects everyone. According to research, one in every four adults will suffer from a mental health problem each year. Employees can receive the support they need to manage their symptoms and enhance their general wellbeing by talking about mental health in the workplace.
In addition, encouraging a mental health-awareness culture can boost employee loyalty, productivity, and engagement. Employees who experience support from their employers are more likely to be devoted and loyal to their jobs, which boosts productivity and improves business results.
Tips for talking about mental health in the workplace
Having conversations about mental health is essential if we break down stigma and create a more supportive work environment. Here are five tips to help you start those conversations with your colleagues about how to help improve mental health in the workplace.
- Be open and honest about mental health. You can start by letting people know you’re open to talking about it and that everyone’s experience is different which can make people feel comfortable sharing their stories and/or offer advice when needed. Learning how to talk about mental health, especially at work, can take some time to feel confident about so it’s also okay if someone is not ready to share their feelings.
- Invite employees to ask questions and offer suggestions. When you request for people’s opinions or check to see if they have any questions, you foster trust and help find potential areas of improvement. You can also ask employees for their suggestions on how to improve the workplace’s ability to support or promote mental health can also be helpful. They could have suggestions that could improve the work environment.
- Listen and offer support. Give people your undivided attention as they speak and offer your support. Just let them know you’re available rather than trying to “fix” their issues or give them unsolicited advice. You can just say that you’re sorry and that you understand if you’re at a loss for words. They can also have access to resources as needed. Tell them that specialized mental health services are available through their employment and discuss how they can access them through confidential channels.
- Normalize the conversation. Normalize workplaces where mental health is often discussed. For example, it can look like a discussion about a book or movie review on a certain topic. Colleagues can be encouraged to share how their experiences in mental health have shaped their personal experiences. Normalizing these discussions can create an atmosphere of acceptance and support.
- Set boundaries and prioritize self-care. It’s critical to keep in mind that discussing mental health can be emotionally taxing for all parties. Set limits for how much you want to discuss it or what subjects are off-limits for you and your coworkers. Learning how to help improve mental health in the workplace, will teach you how to prioritize your own needs.
Benefits of talking about mental health in the workplace
Employers can reap a lot of benefits by encouraging the importance of mental health in the workplace, including:
- Increased productivity: Employees who feel supported by their employer are more likely to be engaged and committed to their work, increasing productivity and improving business results.
- Improved employee retention: Because employees who feel valued and supported by their employers are more likely to stick around, turnover and recruitment costs decrease.
- Reduced stigma and discrimination: Employers can reduce stigma and discrimination in the workplace related to mental health issues by promoting a culture of openness and awareness of mental health.
- Better overall employee wellbeing: By offering resources and support to workers who are struggling with mental health issues, employers can improve the general well-being of their workforce, which will lead to a happier and more effective workforce.
Get help today!
Talking about mental health in the workplace can be difficult, but it’s essential for creating a more supportive environment. Remember you are not alone in this, and it’s ok to take a break when needed. And if professional help is what you seek, Uncover Mental Health Counseling can provide professional and confidential mental health services for you and your high-achieving employees in your organization.
