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The following piece was submitted by Katrina Burch, Lead, Mental Health Promotion and Education CMHA Waterloo Wellington, who co-hosted a Chamber two-part ‘Mental Health in the Workplace’ seminar
October is Healthy Workplace Month and in today’s fast-paced, highly connected world, mental health has become a top priority for workplaces and with good reason, mental well-being directly impacts employee performance, satisfaction, and overall organizational success.
Employers are recognizing that supporting mental health is not just the right thing to do but is essential for building a resilient and sustainable workforce. Studies consistently show that employees with good mental health are more productive, engaged, and loyal. In contrast, poor mental health can lead to absenteeism, high turnover, and decreased morale. But the question often remains what elements create a healthy workplace?
Businesses at the beginning of their journey to support mental health can often feel overwhelmed with understanding of what to do and where to start. There are some simply ways to start changing the culture and understanding of mental health.
This could include sharing the resources available to employees whether that is an Employee and Family Assistance Program or the local mental health support and crisis numbers, such as Here 24/7 in Waterloo Wellington.
The inclusion of mental health training for managers and staff into onboarding or regular skill development helps to decrease stigma, while fostering an environment where employees feel safe to discuss their mental health and leaders are comfortable offering the proper assistance.
Assessing the current psychological health and safety of your workplace can also be helpful as a guide to develop an action plan, while also celebrating your successes.
Leaders must set boundaries
Understanding the signs that someone may be struggling with their mental health is key. These signs could include a change in performance, withdrawal from social interactions or team activities, increased absenteeism, difficulty concentrating, irritability or feelings of hopelessness.
It's crucial that leaders approach these situations with empathy and provide a supportive space for employees to share their experiences. Additionally, leaders are not immune to mental health struggles. Business leaders should prioritize their own well-being by practising self-care and seeking help when needed.
It’s important to set boundaries, delegate tasks, and take breaks to recharge. Leaders should also make use of the same mental health resources available to employees, such as employee assistance programs (EAPs), therapy, or coaching.
By openly addressing their own mental health needs, leaders set a powerful example for their team, demonstrating that it’s okay to seek help when needed.
There are many resources out there to support this work for businesses of all sizes. Investing in mental health training for managers, such as workshops or webinars, can equip them with the tools to recognize and address mental health concerns.
For smaller businesses, Employee Assistance Programs are often more affordable compared to benefits and can provide confidential counseling and support services. Additionally, wellness apps or virtual therapy platforms can offer accessible mental health support at lower costs.
Small businesses can also foster mental well-being by creating a work culture that emphasizes flexibility, work-life balance, and regular check-ins to gauge employee satisfaction and stress levels.
Open communication important
Businesses should embed mental health into the core of their company culture. This means maintaining open communication about mental health, regularly updating, and improving mental health policies, and ensuring leaders and employees receive ongoing training. Implementing regular assessments, anonymous surveys, and focus groups can help you stay attuned to employee needs.
Finally, recognize that mental health support should be continuous. Mental well-being isn’t something that can be addressed once and forgotten. By investing in long-term solutions, such as building a supportive and inclusive workplace culture and providing resources that evolve with the needs of your employees, you’ll ensure that both employees and leaders can thrive mentally, emotionally, and professionally.
By prioritizing mental health, businesses not only improve their employees' well-being but also foster a stronger, more engaged, and productive workforce. Looking for assistance in developing your Psychological Health and Safety or Mental Well-Being programs?
Share your information to connect and learn how we can support your organization's mental health initiatives. |
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Brian Rodnick 222 November 28, 2024 |
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Greg Durocher 41 July 28, 2023 |
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Canadian Chamber of Commerce 24 January 29, 2021 |
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Cambridge Chamber 2 March 27, 2020 |
750 Hespeler Road Cambridge, ON N3H 5L8
Phone: 519-622-2221
Fax: 519-622-0177
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