Unlocking the Potential for Better Mental Health in Our Workplaces

The findings from Calm's latest Voice of the Workplace Report present a stark reality. Despite the strides made in promoting mental health programmes at work, many employees are yet to see a positive shift in their mental wellbeing.

With 69% of workers feeling their mental state has either stagnated or worsened, along with 81% dealing with stress and anxiety, it's evident that foundational efforts need to be strengthened with more impactful actions.

The report, which surveyed 4,000 employees and 150 HR and benefits leaders worldwide, sheds light on the pressures of the modern work environment. The expectation to always be on has left nearly 60% of employees feeling constantly tethered to their work, contributing to a decline in mental health. Additionally, the pace of technological advancement and the uncertainty around AI's impact on jobs are sources of worry for many.

62% of workers believe employers aren’t doing enough to combat stress at work, according to a Robert Walters Group survey. The top triggers for workplace stress included stability concerns, managerial pressure and heavier workloads.

The role of management in this scenario is pivotal. The report points out that a manager's approach can significantly affect an employee's mental health, for better or worse. Yet, only a tiny fraction of workers believe their managers successfully promote a stress-free work environment. This is especially true for Gen Z employees, who are the most affected by managerial practices yet are also at the forefront of advocating for mental health conversations and benefits.

As the report indicates, managers can have as much influence on an employee's mental health as their personal relationships do. This underscores the need for leadership equipped to support mental health, suggesting that training in conflict resolution, effective feedback, and decision-making could be beneficial.

A significant portion of the workforce believes more needs to be done to alleviate work-related stress. Employers must address the root causes of stress, including job stability concerns, managerial pressure, and increased workloads.

This call to action applies to HR professionals and all those in leadership positions. By taking a proactive and preventive stance on mental health, we can transform our workplaces into spaces where every employee feels supported and appreciated.

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Mente

At Mente, we combine years of technology and mental health experience to offer comprehensive solutions that support and enhance workplace wellbeing. Our approach is rooted in a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities within mental health at work. Here's why choosing Mente is the right decision for your organisation.?To see how we can support your business, click here.