Like our physical health, our mental health can be unpredictable. Mental wellbeing in the work place is an ever-growing subject with studies revealing that in the UK, it’s estimated around 30-40 percent of all sickness absence relates to some form of mental health illness.
In this modern economic climate, change is a constant journey evolving rapidly in our daily lives. On average, we spend one-third of our adult lives dedicated to our place of work, so it’s vital that we address mental health and provide support to those who are dealing with this invisible illness.
“Mental illness is nothing to be ashamed of, but stigma and bias shame us all” Bill Clinton.
By understanding and removing the stigma that is pinned to mental health and making small changes to the environment of which we work in, can have a huge impact on employee engagement, boost productivity and increase employee loyalty.
A small change can go long way.
Minimise the stigma within an organisation
Minimising the stigma that casts a shadow over mental health and creating a culture that supports the illness can increase employee confidence.
Be more flexible
With the economy modernising, the workplace should too. 70% of employees want a say in how and when they work. Introducing flexibility into the workplace can have a positive affect on employee engagement, productivity, motivation and most importantly, mental wellbeing.
Keep in touch
Relationships are significant to any mental health illness. Being approachable and understanding or simply initialising that conversation can make an immeasurable difference to someone suffering.
Implementing a few small changes to the workplace will not only have a positive influence on employee wellbeing and engagement but it will uphold a brand to attract and retain talent, talent that is vital to the successful growth and productivity of any organisation in this modernising age.
Let’s come together and make a difference by supporting mental health awareness 365 days a year, not just one.
