Have you considered the frequency of mental health-related absences (short- or long-term) in your workplace? A recent article in Forbes reported that from 2017 to 2023, mental health leaves of absence have increased by 300%.
Anxiety is affecting more and more people thanks to inflation, social media, family pressures, etc. Mental health challenges are more common than you may realize. The National Institute of Mental Health reports that one in five U.S. adults live with some form of mental illness, whether mild, moderate or severe. They define a mental illness as “a mental, behavioral, or emotional disorder varying in impact, ranging from no impairment to mild, moderate, and even severe impairment.” The more serious the mental illness, the more it interferes with daily major activities, such as work and caring for one’s family.
Mental health absences are also an economic issue. The World Economic Forum reported that “12 billion working days are lost every year to depression and anxiety, which costs the global economy $1 trillion in lost productivity.”
An article from Indeed.com reports that when the workforce is mentally healthy, not only are there fewer absences due to mental health issues, but productivity increases. The quality of work also improves, as does employee retention, working relationships and communication.
Not sure where your company stands as far as mental health and well-being? The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has a series of questions on its website for evaluating workplace mental health and well-being. Sit down with your management team and consider these questions:
- What opportunities exist for rest within your work schedule and workplace? Are they adequate? How do you know if they are adequate?
- Do the leaders in your workplace model healthy behaviors and boundaries?
- What opportunities are there in your workplace to meaningfully recognize and appreciate workers’ efforts?
- How can your workplace better support both the physical and mental health needs of all workers?
Once you evaluate where your company stands with regard to mental health, it’s time to act. Even if you feel as though you already do a great job with mental health awareness in the workplace, check out the suggestions below for more ways to prioritize the well-being of your employees.
- It starts with leadership.
Managers should begin by prioritizing their mental health. Train leadership in mental health tools for things such as reducing anxiety as well as helping to increase their awareness of mental health conditions or challenges in the workplace. This demonstrates a commitment to the well-being of your employees. Managers who are pursuing health routines may have an easier time spotting problems in co-workers.
- Promote whole-person health.
Does your company promote physical health? Why not include mental health? Many studies have proven the impact of physical exercise on mental health by reducing anxiety and depression. You can start by offering company fitness challenges or discounts to local gyms to encourage whole-person health in the workplace.
- Look at health insurance policies with a focus on mental health.
Does your health insurance policy allow for adequate coverage for mental health services? Therapy can be expensive and deter your employees from seeking professional help. Having an insurance plan that covers or at least provides assistance for mental health therapy is essential to the well-being of your employees. Also, consider allowing for adequate time off to attend therapy if necessary. Workers need to have the flexibility to address their physical as well as mental needs by being able to take off for appointments as needed. Teletherapy is also an option if it is challenging to meet with a counselor in person.
- Bring mental health experts into the workplace.
It may be helpful to bring experts in to discuss stress management and emotional intelligence, or simply provide regular mental health check-ins. This increases awareness of mental well-being and opportunities for employees to seek help if necessary. Open and honest dialog on mental health decreases the stigma often associated with it.
- Don’t be afraid to care.
Having an awareness of the mental health struggles in your employees begins with simply taking the time to ask, “Are you OK?” Making sure they know you care about their physical and mental well-being promotes empathy in the workplace. Creating an atmosphere to have open conversations about mental health challenges and needs helps employees feel more comfortable with reaching out for help.