Creating Mental Health-Friendly Workplaces: What will you do beyond January?

January may almost be behind us, but the challenges of winter aren’t gone. For many, the winter blues - or Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) can linger, impacting not just mood but productivity and overall workplace wellbeing. As we step into February, it’s the ideal moment to reflect on how we’re supporting mental health in our organisations and whether we’re doing enough to make a lasting impact.

At MHScot, we believe workplace wellbeing should be more than a fleeting New Year’s resolution - it needs to be woven into the fabric of our culture. Here are six practical strategies organisations can adopt to build more compassionate, mental health-friendly environments:

1. Flexible Working Policies

Flexibility isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a lifeline for many employees. Allowing staff to work from home, adjust their hours, or adopt hybrid models can help reduce stress and promote a healthier work-life balance. Giving employees autonomy over their schedules fosters trust and allows them to manage their mental health more effectively while staying productive.

2. Regular Check-Ins

A quick “How are you doing?” can go a long way - but only if it’s genuine. Regular one-to-ones or team check-ins create opportunities to gauge how employees are feeling and offer support when needed. These conversations build trust and help normalise discussions about mental health, paving the way for a more open and supportive workplace culture.

3. Training for Managers

Managers are often the first point of contact for employees struggling with mental health challenges. Equipping leaders with training - such as First Aid for Mental Health - ensures they can spot early signs of poor mental health and respond with empathy and understanding. When leaders are prepared, teams feel safer and more supported.

4. Break the Stigma

Open dialogue is key to changing workplace culture. Hosting mental health workshops, inviting guest speakers, or sharing personal stories can help normalise conversations about mental health. When employees see leadership actively engaging in these efforts, it sends a powerful message that their wellbeing matters.

5. Provide Access to Resources

Support shouldn’t be hard to find. Whether it’s Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs), counselling services, or wellbeing apps, offering resources ensures employees have tools to cope when they need them most. Make these resources visible and accessible to everyone.

6. Create Restorative Spaces

Sometimes, a quiet moment can make all the difference. Providing physical spaces such as quiet rooms or wellbeing areas - allows employees to take a breather, recharge, and return to their tasks with renewed focus.

The Real Question: Are We Doing Enough?

It’s one thing to introduce initiatives in January when awareness campaigns and resolutions are top of mind. But the real challenge lies in sustaining these efforts throughout the year. Are your policies and practices designed for the long haul? Are they making a tangible difference in the lives of your employees?

This isn’t about ticking boxes or chasing trends. It’s about creating environments where people feel valued, supported, and equipped to thrive - even during the darker months of the year.

Take Action This February

As February unfolds, let’s challenge ourselves to do more. Reflect on your workplace practices:

• Are there small changes you can make today to better support your team?
• How can you ensure your mental health initiatives have lasting impact?

Remember, workplace wellbeing isn’t just a priority for winter - it’s a commitment for all seasons.

We’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences. What steps is your organisation taking to create a mental health-friendly environment? Share your insights in the comments and inspire others to take action.

Let’s work together to make mental health a year-round priority.

#WorkplaceWellbeing #MentalHealthAwareness #EmployeeWellbeing #Leadership #SustainableWorkplaceCulture