The Gold Standard for Mental Health and Well-Being in the Workplace

Thriving Workplaces: What Makes Them Stellar for Mental Health?

Forget just "good enough" - what does a truly exceptional approach to employee mental health look like?? The good news is, that companies in your region are already on the path to achieving it, says Dr. Robert Chandler, Managing Director of The LightHouse Arabia.

Many businesses, from startups to global giants, are prioritizing employee well-being. They understand the research: investing in mental health makes good business sense. It leads to less absenteeism, lower turnover, and a happier, more productive workforce.

So, what sets these stellar workplaces apart? Here's a glimpse into what makes them shine:

Blueprint for Success: Policy and Strategy

• Well-being Woven In: Mental health is a core part of the overall HR strategy. Clear policies and procedures exist to proactively support employees and offer help if they're struggling. These policies are constantly reviewed and updated based on employee feedback gathered through annual surveys.
• Company-wide Ownership: It's not just HR's responsibility. A dedicated committee with representatives from across departments works together to develop, implement, and refine the well-being strategy.

Culture of Openness and Support

• Leaders Who Lead by Example: Leaders are champions of mental health awareness. They actively promote a safe space where asking for help is encouraged, not frowned upon.
• Self-Aware Leaders: Leaders have invested in their own well-being through coaching, therapy, or leadership development programs. They understand how their actions and leadership style impact the company culture.
• Work-Life Balance Champions: Some companies may even explore a shorter work week or limit after-hours emails to promote a healthy "right to disconnect." In this culture, vacations are truly for rest and recharging. Flexibility and autonomy in work schedules and hybrid work options are also valued. Regular wellness initiatives like yoga, mindfulness sessions, or breakfast clubs are woven into the company calendar.

Knowledge and Skills for All

• Mental Health Literacy: All employees are equipped with basic or advanced mental health knowledge. They can recognize signs of anxiety, low mood, and burnout in themselves and colleagues. The company fosters self-awareness by encouraging regular self-checks.
• Mental Health First Aiders: Trained employees at all levels are available to identify early signs of struggle in their colleagues.
• Continuous Learning: The well-being agenda is a permanent fixture on the learning and development calendar. Information sessions, webinars, and town hall meetings keep mental health awareness top-of-mind.

Valuable Resources

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Health insurance plans offer good coverage for therapy, medication, and other mental health services.
• Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): An EAP provides confidential, short-term support for a range of personal challenges, including emotional, financial, and relationship issues.
• Self-Help Library: A well-organized library of resources is readily available to all employees. This includes self-assessment tools, books, websites, and podcasts on mental health and well-being. Employees are introduced to the library during onboarding.

How Does Your Organization Stack Up?

This glimpse into exceptional workplaces can be a benchmark to assess your own company's approach to employee mental health.? Is it time to strive for stellar?

Dr. Robert Chandler, Managing Director?

Arabian Business

May, 2022