5 Ways to Manage Mental Health in the Workplace

With around 1 in 4 people suffering from mental health issues each year in the UK. It is no wonder that it is one of the most prevalent subjects talked about in society. 

Mental health issues come in all forms, and because they are not visible, they can be a minefield for business owners and managers to navigate in the workplace. Thankfully, mental health is no longer as taboo as it once was, as more people are open about their feelings. Nevertheless, managing mental health in the workplace is crucial, and there are various ways to do this in your business.

1. Open Communication

It is vital that communication is open and that managers check in with their employees regularly to understand how they are feeling. Employees should feel that they are in an inclusive environment, where they can discuss how their mental health is – without judgement. Some may not feel comfortable with discussing such issues face to face, so it is vital to provide an anonymous communication channel for employees to express their views in a safe environment. Treat your employees well and empathise that they come with their own lives and complications.

2. Train Managers

Managers should receive training on mental health and understanding the signs that someone may be struggling. For instance, if an employee is less productive or has higher absence levels, these could be signs that they are struggling with their mental health. When managers are not adequately trained in mental health, they may make assumptions about why someone isn't performing in the way they would like. 

3. Offer Flexibility

We can all go through stages in our lives where things are getting us down, and at these times, employers that offer flexibility will shine out from others. Offering employees the option to work from home, a change in shift pattern, finish/start early, etc., are all ways to provide some flexibility. For instance, if an employee is going through depression and anxiety, it is better to offer them the chance to work remotely or in an environment to suit them rather than to end up losing them altogether.

4. Positive Working Environment

Nurturing a positive working environment is crucial to managing your employee's mental health. You can achieve this by asking for regular feedback and making positive changes to improve the environment. Conversely, when the environment becomes negative, it affects everyone and can lead to poor mental health throughout the workforce. Therefore, it is essential to ask for regular employee feedback and manage your culture accordingly.

5. Appreciation and Recognition

No matter how bad your employees may be feeling, if you can show that you value them through recognition and appreciation, it will reassure them. Appreciation and recognition can come in various forms. It can simply be verbal recognition, or you may want to offer incentives when your employees do an excellent job. Fostering this kind of environment is a meaningful way to take care of your employees and their mental health in the workplace and improve retention levels within your business.

----------------------------------------------------

At Thymometrics, we can help you gain valuable insight into how your employees feel and, therefore, ways you can improve their mental health. These include always-on surveys and anonymous feedback solutions. 

You can call us for more information at 01223 750251, email hello@thymometrics.com, or visit thymometrics.com.

Photo by Rohan Makhecha from Unsplash