MENTAL HEALTH – WHAT SHOULD AN ORGANIZATION DO?

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly affected the mental health of adults and children. In a 2021 study, nearly half of Americans surveyed reported recent symptoms of an anxiety or depressive disorder, and 10% of respondents felt their mental health needs were not being met. Rates of anxiety, depression, and substance use disorder have increased since the beginning of the pandemic.

Uncertainty breeds anxiety, and we are living in uncertain times, we don’t know what will come next. And that’s taking a toll on our mental health, including at work.

So, how can an organization help to handle mental health issues within its workforce?

Before I talk about that let us look at some very tangible benefits of supporting employee mental health:

1.??Increased productivity.

2.??Increased retention.

3.??Decreased health care & disability costs.

In my view, it is in the larger interest of the organization to treat ‘mental health issues’ as a potent threat to its existence and longevity. In fact, this should be treated like any other external issue (although it is internal) that the organization can face in the marketplace.

Here are some tangible ways to handle this:

1.??Training Programs

The stigma around mental health makes it difficult for people to talk about their struggles. Organizing training programs to educate employees helps. This training is also more important for line managers to help them understand the issue and the ways to handle it appropriately.

2.??Job Enrichment

One of the best ways to create a culture that supports mental health is to ensure employees experience their jobs in a more meaningful way. If the employees experience support and independence, they will be happier at work, which helps in reducing mental health problems.

3.??Enhance Employee Engagement

When people are engaged, they are enthusiastic, positive, and proud to be a member of the organization. All of these factors forecast positive well-being.

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4.??Support a Healthy Work-Life Balance

When the employees have time to pursue their hobbies and spend time with their family and friends, they are more likely to come to work feeling refreshed and motivated. This will lead to increased job satisfaction and increased morale.

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5.??Mental Health Insurance

Provide your employees with this coverage in your existing health insurance. It is important to make sure everyone in the organization has easy access to this scheme.

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6.??Introduce Motivational Programs

Motivation inspires and energizes. Whatever the industry or project, motivated workers are the difference between acceptable and exceptional results.

The link between motivation and mental health goes both ways. Motivation can foster positive mental well-being for your employees as they find purpose and energy in their work. And positive mental health can make it easier for workers to feel positive and motivated about their work.

Organizations that invest in the mental health of their people and foster open dialogue about mental health issues will also be creating a positive workplace and a place where people want to work. It’s a win-win.

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