Ensuring good mental health in the workplace benefits employees, employers and society as a whole. An integrated approach that connects mental and physical well-being is essential.

Mental health awareness is growing, but conditions such as depression and anxiety continue to rise. Currently, 1 in 5 US adults experience a mental illness annually, and poor mental health could cost the global economy $6 trillion by 2030.

Employees want employers to prioritize wellbeing with flexible hours, remote working, autonomy, recognition and mental health support. Over 80% of job seekers consider culture and mental health benefits when choosing a company, making workplace wellbeing a key factor in business success.

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Conformable Forbeshere are five ways to support employee mental health in the workplace

1. Provide mental and physical health benefits

A comprehensive approach to health that focuses on both mental and physical well-being can increase employee engagement and productivity. Employers can support this by designating meditation and relaxation rooms, offering free office fitness classes, forming exercise groups for social physical activity, offering therapy sessions and mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) programs, and providing access to services free or low-cost mental health. wellness apps. These combined efforts show a commitment to the overall health and well-being of employees.

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2. Create regular check-ins and open communication

Quality relationships and transparent communication play a significant role in productivity and mental health. Employers can foster this environment by showing vulnerability, encouraging a safe space for employees to express concerns, and seeking feedback. This can be done by creating employee satisfaction surveys, scheduling regular check-ins with management and mental health professionals, and implementing feedback to address dissatisfaction. These measures can help build trust and open dialogue, allowing employees to feel heard and supported.

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3. Encourage autonomy and build a flexible workplace

Workplace flexibility and employee involvement in decision-making reduce stress and improve mental health. Employers can promote autonomy by allowing employees to create their own schedules, offering telecommuting options, experimenting with four-day work weeks, involving employees in decisions that affect them, seeking their opinions, recognizing their achievements, and hosting employee appreciation events. employees. These practices help create a sense of ownership and support in the workplace.

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4. Reduce workload and let employees disconnect

Excessive workload and inability to disconnect contribute to burnout. According to a 2021 report by Indeed, more than half of workers have reported longer hours since COVID-19, with nearly 30% saying they can never log off. Addressing burnout involves setting limits, such as restricting email during work hours, discouraging overtime, hiring more staff to balance the workload, encouraging vacations, and increasing paid time off. Regular surveys to monitor burnout levels can help employers understand and mitigate stressors, fostering a healthier work environment.

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5. Implement education and training

Offering mental health benefits is effective when employees know how to use them. Office training in mental health can increase awareness and encourage utilization. Regular training at all levels of management and staff ensures that everyone is aware of the services available and how to access them. This strategy can reduce the stigma around seeking support and promote a proactive approach to mental health.