About 75% of employees have struggled with an issue that affected their mental health. Yet, 8 out of 10 workers with a mental health condition say shame and stigma prevent them from seeking mental health care. Individuals should not feel shame, but some companies are just unaware and unsure of the overall topic of mental health. According to the CDC, “71% of adults reported at least one symptom of stress, such as a headache or feeling overwhelmed or anxious”. It is not uncommon to feel stressed and overwhelmed, for these individuals are not alone. Resulting of the pandemic, this is a very fragile time in terms of mental health. It is important to address this topic throughout the workplace to make employees feel comfortable and accepted.
- Important for all levels of the staff in a company… Despite the higher powers not believing that they might need to communicate and be transparent due to their higher power; they are still human. All individuals deserve the right to express themselves and will promote positive mental health support throughout the company.
- Speak unambiguously about mental health in the workplace… If there is an open conversation that is fostered in the workplace, employees will have an easier time talking about their personal experiences. The chances most likely could be you are not the only one who is battling mentally and emotionally. Therefore, it might even help another coworker who feels the same and is having trouble talking about their struggles and develop a landline where they feel comfortable to share.
- Focus on the positives, and encourage the employees… It is important to focus on the positives in a business setting and to promote a positive culture. Building up employees can reinforce their performance and behaviors adding a positive and focused environment to complete the task. If they are constantly being put down, they will have trouble with their mental state, and if they are going to mess things up again which will alter their performance.
- Facilitate access to the resources available… Finally, staff should be aware of the resources that they have available to them. Today, there are several resources at people’s fingertips, and some are just a call away. Creating a sense of awareness makes these employees feel accepted, and that what they are feeling is okay. Additionally, be sure to offer employees professional mentoring
