We live some times in which people have to deal with their mental health every day: at home, at school, in the workplace. We are surrounded by information regarding the mental health, but even so, this is not a topic you learn from books.

People are becoming more aware of this issue, so the companies started focusing more on the mental health of their employees. Compared to the past, the employees are now individuals with unique mental health needs that require attention and support. As companies cross the fast-changing landscape of business, they must be aware of the role that mental health plays in the success of the entire organization.

Because the business “math” says this: more happy employees => more productivity and better service quality => more successful organization.

The Importance of Mental Health in the Workplace

Consider these statistics: one in five adults in the United States experiences mental illness in a given year, and the World Health Organization predicts that depression will be the leading cause of disability worldwide by 2030. Not only it sounds scarry, but that 1 out of 5 might the be you or a friend or maybe a family member. These statistics translate directly into the workplace, where employees deal with stress, anxiety, and various mental health challenges on a daily basis.

If that was not convincing enough, find out that globally, an estimated 12 billion working days are lost every year to depression and anxiety at a cost of US$ 1 trillion per year in lost productivity. So, if you are a business and you are wondering why would you invest in your employees’ mental health, here is one more reason.

And it’s not just about the numbers, it’s about creating a healthy culture that prioritizes the well-being of its employees. When employees feel supported and valued, they are more likely to do their best to help the organization to grow. In essence, a mentally healthy workforce is the foundation of a successful business.

Your role in change as a business

As a business, there are many things you can do to make sure that your employees are happy. Here are some ideas that don’t require a huge budget and will bring amazing results:

• Creating a Supportive Culture:

You want for your employees to feel appreciated and supported. You can foster a culture that values and supports mental well-being. For this, you should promote open and empathetic communication, as well as respect for diverse needs and experiences.

• Training and Education:

Provide training and educational resources to help employees and managers recognize the signs of mental health issues. This training can also include guidance on how to respond to different situations and connect employees with support resources.

• Wellness Initiatives:

Develop wellness programs that focus on both physical and mental well-being. These might include stress management programs, mindfulness sessions, or fitness challenges. These initiatives, already implemented in many countries, have shown very positive results.

• Regular Check-Ins:

Establish regular one-on-one check-ins with employees to discuss their workloads, concerns, and well-being. Just talking about those things can help and feel like a relief. Encourage open conversations and follow up on any issues raised during these meetings. In this way you will also get closer to your employees.

• Support Services:

Offer support services, such as Employee Assistance Programs and confidential counseling, to provide employees with access to professional help when they need it.

So, if you are an employee and you feel that your job does not offer you the right environment for your mental health, you should talk to the people and ask for help. And if you don’t receive support, don’t forget that your health is the most important thing. And if you are a business, don’t forget that incorporating mental health into your company is a strategic business move. It directly impacts the bottom line, affecting employee performance, productivity, and retention rates. A mentally healthy workforce is not only more productive but also more engaged, creative, and loyal.