by @Julia Marie Selent
We see more and more companies putting more attention towards the topic of Mental Health of their employees. It is a good development to see how companies create better awareness and often already have some initiatives in place to provide support and create a healthy and safe working environment.
If you haven’t jumped on the train towards better company and mental health yet, there is no better time than now. And even if you already have, it is always good to remind ourselves about the reasons and benefits of putting some Spotlight on this. Here is why!
There is often the assumption that if someone is struggling they will seek help. However, the stigma of mental health remains and if it is not talked about at the top, employees will believe that it is not an acceptable behaviour in the culture.
<aside> ☝️ The OECD points to an increase in mental health problems at work in a report which reveals that one in five workers suffer from mental disorders, such as depression or anxiety, and that many of them struggle to cope. Indeed, three out of four workers with a mental disorder report a drop in productivity. Their absences are also much more frequent. In addition, almost half of all disability claims are now based on weak mental health.
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Highlighting this already reflects to some extent why it is important to create a safe work environment for employees to discuss Mental Health issues in order for them to be successful in their roles long-term.
Poor mental health and stress can negatively affect employees (Job performance and productivity, Engagement with one’s work, Communication with coworkers, Physical capability and daily functioning).
Mental illnesses such as depression are associated with higher rates of disability and unemployment.
Thus, the more information is provided and the more of an open discussion there is, the easier it will be for employees to discuss issues they are facing and find individual solutions in order to support a good work-life balance and optimal work conditions for employees to perform well in their jobs.
Physical as well as psychological health is the base for employees to keep their job performance up and increase productivity.
The discussion around Mental Health is still at the beginning and carries stigma and stereotypes.