World Mental Health Day 2024
It's October 10th—World Mental Health Day. But it's a year-round issue, and whether your mental health is good or bad, work is a huge contributing factor.
Since Americans spend so much time at work, companies, managers, and colleagues must ensure the workplace is a supportive environment for mental well-being. Beyond the moral imperative to have a decent environment, mental health impacts the bottom line, too.
According to a recent Yale study , untreated mental health issues cost US businesses up to $282 billion a year in lost productivity.
The outlook isn't good. Mental health challenges have worsened since the pandemic began. Anxiety and depression rates have surged worldwide. As an employer or recruiter, here's how to make your workplace healthier and more supportive of mental well-being.
Five Practical Steps for Supporting Mental Health
Flexible Work
Flexible work hours or hybrid work options reduce stress and boost work-life balance. Return-to-office policies do the opposite. When employees have more control over their schedules, they experience less stress and are more productive. A study by the American Psychological Association (2023) found that promoting flexibility helps employees better balance personal and professional obligations, reducing burnout risks.
Social Connections
A supportive work culture is crucial for mental well-being. Research shows that feeling connected to colleagues can improve employee satisfaction. Regular team meetings, social events, and peer support groups can strengthen relationships, making employees feel more valued and supported. However, for introverts and many neurodivergent employees, these social activities can be a source of stress.
Provide Access to Mental Health Resources
Access to mental health support is one of the most direct ways to assist staff. Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), counseling services, or partnerships with mental health organizations can provide essential resources. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) recommends that companies incorporate mental health awareness days and workshops to offer practical support.
Promote Physical Well-being
Integrating movement into the workday can significantly affect mental health. Lunchtime walking groups or subsidized gym memberships might seem cliché, but they can make a real difference. Exercise boosts mood by releasing endorphins, the body's natural 'feel-good' chemicals, while also improving physical health.
Force People to Take Breaks
If your team feels they need to "power through," even when mentally exhausted, they are on the path to burnout. Encourage employees to take regular breaks and use their vacation days. This is essential for maintaining long-term productivity and reducing burnout. According to the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), employees who take time off—especially for mental health days—return to work more focused and productive.
The First Step is the Hardest—Talking About It
The first step is to ensure there's no stigma around discussing mental health at work. October 10th is just one day, but it's a good opportunity to reflect on how things are going—how your team is feeling, what's working, and what isn't.
If you invest in mental health, the returns can be significant. What company wouldn't want improved engagement, reduced absenteeism, and a stronger, more resilient workforce?
These practical steps offer a starting point—adapt them or create your own to fit your culture and workforce. As managers and leaders, we have the power to make a real impact on our employees' lives. Improving mental health in the workplace comes with no downsides.
If you have ideas or programs that have worked, please share them!