We have made much progress in reducing the stigma around talking about mental health in the workplace. The challenges of the pandemic were a potent reminder of how an employee’s private struggles can spill over into their work—and how supporting employees holistically is not just the right thing to do, but good business.U.S. Surgeon General
, 84% of employees surveyed reported that at least one workplace factor had a negative impact on their mental health. Many employees who left their jobs during the Great Resignation cited a strain on their mental health or a lack of support from their employers as a reason for doing so. Employers and business leaders have a lot on their plates these days. Adding a difficult issue like mental health to that list may feel overwhelming. Keep it simple. When in doubt, turn to theseGeneral awareness of the importance of mental health is a start. It is also essential to educate and train leaders and managers to spot signs of mental illness so they can intervene and support employees.
Employers are uniquely positioned to identify potential mental health issues, support employees facing mental health challenges, and enact holistic policies that promote overall well-being and resilience. Leaders will be more likely to implement these tools when they view investing in employee mental health as an investment. According to the
, employers see a $4 return on every dollar they invest in mental health treatments. Acting boldly to promote mental health should be embraced as an opportunity.