How to Support Mental Health in the Workplace
October marks the beginning of World Mental Health Awareness Month, a month that encourages all of us to think about our mental health & wellbeing, regardless of whether we have a lived experience or not.
It also gives us the opportunity to understand the importance of good mental health in our everyday lives, including in the workplace.
Whether you’re a wellbeing team member, manager or colleague, there are many ways you can be supportive of others’ mental health in the workplace, whilst being mindful of your own.
Here are some impactful actions you can take this Mental Health Awareness Month and beyond.
Start a Conversation
Go beyond a simple “How are you?” and ask specific questions about what supports would be helpful. Wait for the full answer. Really listen, and encourage questions and concerns.
If they do not want to talk, let them know they can come to you for support when they’re ready.
HeadsUplaunch has conversation tips, including how to prepare, what to say, and what to do if your team member doesn’t respond as expected.
Connect to Support
Let your employees know that it’s OK to not be OK, and encourage them to seek support services if they need it.
This could be support offered by your workplace like an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), a mental health support line launch, their doctor or someone else they trust.
Care for their Wellbeing
Providing employees with easy and regular access to services that support their mental and physical health demonstrates that their wellbeing is a priority in and out of the workplace.
Offering mindfulness or movement classes before, during or after the workday allows team members to engage in supportive activities that fit around their schedule, and brings them closer to their colleagues too.
Create Culture
Help to form a healthy work environment that makes mental health a priority, and encourages all team members to be supportive of one another. Celebrate key mental health awareness dates and open conversations around key issues to normalise these things.
People will often need different things at different times, so offering flexibility and understanding when employees need to focus on their wellbeing will go a long way too.
We’re excited to support our clients this month with workshops including mindfulness, breathwork and inspiring talks, to help make the workplace a more supportive place. Email us today to see how we can support you too.