The WHO estimates that Covid 19 triggered a 25% increase in general anxiety and depression worldwide. Today, the workplace mental health crisis is only deepening due to the cost of living, a looming recession and broader anxieties about the war in Ukraine and climate change. 

This is driving thousands of people out of the workforce with more sick days attributed to mental health conditions. Embedding wellbeing into your workplace culture is just one of the many ways that you can help your employees to flourish at work.

This isn’t just crucial for retaining your staff and increasing productivity – it’s also key for attracting the top talent into your business. According to a survey, 81% of workers say they will be looking for workplaces that support their mental health in the future. 

So how can you help to support your employee’s mental health in the workplace? Here are a few top tips:

Create a culture of openness and support

Encourage employees to speak openly about their mental health and provide a safe and supportive environment where they can do so. This could include regular check-ins, employee assistance programs, and mental health days.

Provide access to mental health resources 

Make sure that employees have access to mental health resources such as counselling services, support groups, and online resources. This can be done by offering a package of employee benefits that focus on health and wellbeing, or by providing information about ways they can access the support they need locally.

Promote work-life balance 

Encourage your employees to take time off when they need it and to prioritise self-care. This can include offering flexible work arrangements, or free wellness benefits such as mindfulness programs or yoga classes.

Provide training and education

Offer training and education opportunities for employees on topics such as stress management, mental health, and self-care. This can help employees identify and manage their own mental health concerns, as well as supporting their colleagues.

Lead by example 

As an employer, it’s important to lead by example and prioritise your own mental health and wellbeing. This can help create a culture where mental wellbeing is valued and supported.

By implementing these strategies, employers can create a supportive and inclusive environment where employees feel comfortable discussing their mental health, and have access to the resources and support they need to maintain good mental health. 

Remember that mental wellbeing is an ongoing process and it’s important to continuously evaluate and improve on the support you provide.