How Can You Prioritise Mental Health at Work?

In today’s world, mental health at work has become more vital than ever. Kiwi business owners are increasingly recognising the substantial benefits of prioritising mental well-being, not only for their employees’ mental health but also for the overall success of their businesses. Mental health care in the workplace is more than just a buzzword or a fad; it’s crucial for business leaders to cultivate a healthy work environment where their employees can thrive professionally.

According to a survey by the New Zealand Business Council, 72% of business owners who introduced mental health initiatives saw a boost in employee productivity. Additionally, 65% reported a drop in absenteeism, often linked to mental health issues.

In this article, we’ll explore why mental health is so important and how you can effectively prioritise it in your workplace.

You Must Promote a Healthy Work Culture

Why is it important to build a healthy and supportive work culture? Because mental health affects job performance, creativity, and workplace relationships. Employees who are mentally well are more engaged, motivated, and less prone to burnout. This results in higher productivity and a more positive work environment.

According to a 2024 study by the Mental Health Foundation New Zealand, 70% of employees working in supportive and mentally healthy workplaces reported lower levels of stress and anxiety. The study also found that organisations with a strong focus on mental health saw a 50% reduction in employee burnout rates compared to those without such initiatives. It’s imperative to create a supportive work culture to promote healthier and happier employees.

You Must Foster Honest Conversations

Cultivating a workplace culture that promotes open discussions about mental health is essential. A study by the Mental Health Foundation New Zealand discovered that workplaces where mental health conversations are commonplace experience 50% fewer instances of employee burnout. Burnout is a common reason why employees quit, leading to high turnover rates and associated costs for the business.

Encouraging open dialogue creates an environment where employees feel supported and less isolated with their challenges. This openness not only reduces the stigma surrounding mental health issues but also allows for early identification and intervention. When employees are comfortable discussing their mental health, they are more likely to seek help before issues escalate, leading to quicker resolutions and a healthier work environment. This proactive approach helps maintain a more engaged and productive workforce, ultimately benefiting both employees and the organisation.

You Must Establish Guidelines

Develop and enforce clear mental health policies that outline available support resources and procedures. This transparency helps in creating a supportive environment. A recent survey found that 58% of businesses with formal mental health policies reported improved employee morale and trust.

Implementing mental health policies that prioritise employee wellbeing highlights the genuine commitment of managers to their staff’s welfare. Such policies cultivate a culture of openness and support, empowering employees to seek assistance without fear of judgement or negative consequences. This forward-thinking approach not only boosts individual mental health but also leads to a more motivated and efficient team.

You Must Conduct Mental Health Trainings

Providing mental health training for managers and staff can greatly benefit your workplace. Research from the New Zealand Institute of Economic Research (NZIER) indicates that businesses investing in mental health training see a 45% improvement in employee retention.

Your company or organisation can host mental health awareness workshops. These workshops educate employees about various mental health challenges, including stress, anxiety, and depression, and their impact on work performance. Participants learn how to recognise symptoms, understand mental health challenges, and develop strategies for managing their own mental health and supporting colleagues.

Collaborate with organisations like the Mental Health Foundation New Zealand or local mental health professionals to offer workshops. These sessions can be customised to address specific workplace challenges and can be delivered in person or via virtual platforms.

Another valuable training is resilience and stress management training. This helps employees develop coping strategies to handle workplace stress and build resilience. This training typically covers mindfulness, relaxation exercises, time management, and problem-solving skills.

You Must Provide Professional Support Services

Ensuring that employees have access to a range of mental health resources is crucial for fostering a supportive and healthy work environment. Various resources you can choose from include Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), which provide confidential counselling and support services for personal or work-related issues.

Mental health resources can provide valuable support, reduce stress and anxiety, and contribute to overall well-being. According to a 2024 report by WorkSafe New Zealand, companies offering EAPs saw a 30% reduction in work-related stress and anxiety among employees.

These programmes often include access to mental health professionals, legal advice, financial counselling, and work-life balance support. Additionally, hotlines and helplines offer immediate support for individuals in crisis or needing urgent help, such as the New Zealand Depression Helpline and Lifeline New Zealand.

These services provide immediate, confidential support and crisis intervention, which can be vital for employees experiencing acute mental health issues. They offer a lifeline for those needing urgent help and can guide employees towards longer-term resources.

 You Must Encourage Work-Life Balance

Allowing your organisation to have a flexible work options, such as remote work or adjustable hours, can significantly enhance employees’ mental health. According to a 2023 survey by the New Zealand Human Resources Institute, 68% of employees felt less stressed and more productive with flexible work options.

Managers should encourage employees to take regular breaks to alleviate stress and prevent burnout. A study by the University of Auckland found that employees who took regular breaks were 25% more productive and 20% less likely to experience work-related stress.

You Must Acknowledge Employee Achievements

Recognising and rewarding employees for their hard work is a powerful strategy for boosting morale and enhancing mental health in the workplace. A 2024 Gallup survey found that employees who felt appreciated were 40% more engaged in their work and 35% more likely to stay with their employer.

When employees are recognised for their contributions, it significantly boosts their motivation and job satisfaction. The Gallup survey highlights that employees who feel appreciated are 40% more engaged in their work. This increased engagement often leads to higher productivity levels, as employees are more inclined to go above and beyond their basic job requirements, contributing positively to the organisation’s goals.

 You Must Celebrate Mental Health Milestones

Organisations can celebrate mental health milestones by integrating thoughtful and engaging activities that both acknowledge progress and promote ongoing awareness. Celebrating milestones such as the completion of mental health training programmes, improvements in workplace mental health metrics, or the launch of new mental health initiatives can be done through various activities. These may include hosting special events like mental health awareness days with guest speakers, workshops, or panel discussions featuring mental health professionals and advocates.

Sharing success stories through internal communications, such as newsletters or social media, can celebrate achievements and inspire continued commitment to mental health. These activities not only celebrate milestones but also strengthen the organisation’s culture of support and awareness, fostering a more inclusive and caring workplace.

You Must Assess Mental Health Initiatives

Conduct regular surveys to assess the effectiveness of your mental health initiatives and gather feedback from employees. A 2023 Deloitte report showed that businesses that actively seek feedback and adjust their mental health strategies accordingly see a 50% increase in employee satisfaction.

Be prepared to adjust your organisation’s mental health initiatives or strategies based on feedback and evolving needs. Continuous improvement is essential to maintaining a supportive and effective mental health environment.

Conclusion

Prioritizing mental health at work is not just a trend but a fundamental aspect of running a successful business. By understanding the impact of mental health, fostering a supportive culture, providing resources, promoting work-life balance, recognizing efforts, and monitoring initiatives, managers or business leaders can create a healthier, more productive workplace. Investing in mental health means taking care of people, which is also an investment in your organization’s future success.