How to change the stigma around mental health in your workplace

Conversation about mental health has gained a lot of momentum in recent years; however, in some cases, there still remains a stigma around mental health in the workplace. This article provides practical tips to help business owners and leaders create a healthier work environment and break the stigma around mental health in their workplace.

Staff with good mental health are the most engaged, creative, and resilient, whereas untreated mental health issues can lead to decreased productivity, absenteeism, and higher turnover rates. Therefore, it’s important to consider mental health not only as part of your job as a compassionate leader but also to create a mentally healthy work environment for optimum performance.

Practical mental health tips for business owners and leaders

Increase mental health awareness

Encouraging and educating staff about mental health can be as simple as communicating that you acknowledge the existence of mental health issues and are ready to listen to anyone who would like to discuss their wellbeing in the workplace. You can also educate your staff about the importance of mental health to encourage a positive work environment and the science behind the connection between wellbeing and productivity.

Normalise conversation

Create a work environment where talking about mental health is normal. A compassionate leader should encourage open dialogue about mental health in the workplace. You can do this by leading by example: share your own stories and issues, successes and failures, and offer insights into how you’ve been able to overcome your mental health challenges. It’s important to remember to be ready to listen and reciprocate the conversation.

Create mental health policies

Create a policy for mental health so that your staff can understand what type of communication is appropriate and encouraged, as well as feel that they have the confidentiality to create a safe space to seek support.

Provide employee assistance programs (EAPs)

An employee assistance program (EAP) offers free and confidential assessments and short-term counselling for staff who are experiencing mental health concerns. An EAP can reduce absenteeism by addressing personal and work related issues that may be negatively impacting a workplace.

Offer flexible work arrangements

Consider offering staff flexible work hours or remote work options to accommodate your team’s diverse mental health needs. Some staff thrive with the option of hybrid work, and flexible work arrangements have a positive impact on employee wellbeing.

Promote work-life balance

Lead by example and encourage a healthy work-life balance. Working overtime and not being able to disconnect from work can lead to increased stress and burnout. A healthy work-life balance works towards improving mental health and job satisfaction.