Well-Being at Work: Inclusion’s Role in Employee Mental Health

I often say that I see my colleagues more than my own family, and the data proves me right – the average person is estimated to spend one-third of their life at work. That’s why it’s no surprise that an individual's mental health is closely linked to their experiences in the workplace.

Employers have a duty – and a responsibility – to ensure employees feel supported and empowered in their work environments. By ensuring that workplaces practice inclusivity, embrace equity and encourage diversity, we can make all our employees feel safe, appreciated and understood.

I recently had the incredible opportunity to sit down with my colleague, Brooke Wilson , Head of Resources for Living, to discuss the link between inclusion and employee well-being, the importance of promoting and encouraging diversity in workplaces and some of the ways employers can ensure employees feel safe and appreciated at work through inclusivity efforts.

Q: What is inclusion in the workplace? Why is it important?

Brooke Wilson: While the definitions of inclusion may vary, inclusion in the workplace refers to fostering an environment where all individuals, regardless of their differences, feel valued, respected and included, not just within their teams but within their organization as a whole.

Inclusion is critical in the workplace. Not only does it help a company's bottom line – diversity of thought has been shown to increase productivity and performance, enhance creativity and innovation and lead to both attraction and retention of talent – but it also cultivates a positive culture that supports employee well-being.

Q: How do inclusion and diversity affect employee well-being??

Brooke Wilson: Studies show that social exclusion can?lead ?to feelings of loneliness, low self-esteem and even depression and anxiety. That's why it comes as no surprise that inclusion within the workplace has a profound impact on employee well-being. By fostering and encouraging inclusion, employers can ensure that their employees are comfortable being themselves, expressing their opinions and sharing their experiences and ideas without fear of judgment or discrimination. This helps individuals feel a sense of belonging, which reduces feelings of isolation and increases overall job satisfaction. In turn, diversity of thought can help foster a more inclusive, open and creative work environment.

An inclusive and diverse workplace can also have a positive effect on work-life balance, interpersonal relationships and more. Overall, organizations can positively impact employee well-being, job satisfaction and overall quality of life by fostering a culture of acceptance, respect and equal opportunities.

Q: How, in your opinion, can employers be more inclusive??

Brooke Wilson: Employers can take a number of steps to ensure employees feel safe and appreciated at work through inclusivity efforts. This can include fostering a culture of respect and empathy and ensuring all employees have a place at the table, providing diversity and inclusion training for all employees and actively seeking out and addressing any instances of bias or discrimination in the workplace. It can also mean creating moments of conversation for employees with similar experiences, like Here4U’s peer support groups.

Additionally, employers can provide resources and support for employees struggling with mental health issues, including access to counseling services or even mental health days. By prioritizing Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, employers can create a workplace that is not only more inclusive but also more supportive and beneficial to the mental health and well-being of all employees.

It's important to remember that, to embrace well-being in the workplace, inclusion must be given priority across the entire organization at all levels. When it comes to inclusion in the workplace employers must develop a strategic approach in order to make a meaningful shift in their company culture. Through training, accountability and action, organizations and companies can foster a positive and inclusive workplace that is conducive to the health and well-being of all employees, regardless of their background.?

Q: What are some resources available to those looking to encourage and promote well-being in the workplace??

Brooke Wilson: While these may vary across organizations, there are a number of resources available to those looking to encourage and promote well-being in the workplace for employers and individuals alike.

Some organizations offer mental health services and counseling for employees, while others provide access to fitness facilities and wellness programs. Check your company's Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) to learn more about what's available to you. These programs, which are a component of what we offer through Resources for Living, provide several resources, tools and support for those experiencing personal or work-related challenges and often cover a range of well-being areas, including mental health, stress management and more.

You can also seek?resources ?in your community. Reach out to supports like Resources for Living or to local organizations directly to see if they offer any wellness resources. From meditation or yoga classes to financial planning support, community organizations can play a significant role in your total health. You can also visit one of CVS Health's MinuteClinic locations nationwide. Here you can find mental health care and resources, such as depression screenings, in-person counseling and more.?