Shaka Insights
Why Caring about Employee Wellbeing Matters
Written By Amber Stonelan
Mental health in the workplace is an important issue that can significantly impact the well-being and productivity of employees. To create a supportive and inclusive work environment that promotes mental health, employers should implement strategies that address mental health concerns effectively. Here are key approaches supported by relevant statistics:
1. Provide Resources and Access to Mental Health Professionals:
Employers should offer resources like Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) or direct access to mental health professionals. A survey by the American Psychiatric Association revealed that 78% of employees consider access to mental health benefits through their workplace essential. Moreover, the Center for Workplace Mental Health found that every dollar invested in EAPs results in an $8 return through reduced absenteeism and increased productivity.
2. Promote an Open and Inclusive Culture:
Creating an environment where employees feel comfortable discussing their mental health and seeking support is crucial. Research conducted by Deloitte shows that workplaces prioritizing mental health experience a 20% increase in employee engagement and a 17% increase in productivity.
3. Encourage Work-Life Balance and Flexible Work Arrangements:
Striving for a healthy work-life balance is essential for maintaining good mental health. Employers can support their employees by offering flexible work arrangements. The American Psychological Association highlights that employees who perceive their organization as supportive of work-life balance are more likely to have better overall mental health.
4. Provide Training and Resources on Mental Health and Self-Care:
Investing in mental health training and resources empowers employees to effectively manage their mental well-being. According to the World Health Organization, every dollar invested in scaling up mental health treatment yields a return of $4 through improved health and productivity. We recommend looking into Mental Health First Aid Training, especially for the managers on your team. Jamy Conrad (Sr. Director of People at TrustRadius) shared her experience with mental health first aid in the workplace, including how your company can potentially receive the training for free, plus ways to reduce the stigma around talking about mental health at work.
5. Address Workplace Stressors and Issues:
It is crucial for employees to prioritize their own mental health and seek support when needed. This can include reaching out to mental health professionals, taking breaks, practicing self-care, and seeking support from colleagues, friends, and family.
6. Encourage Social Interaction Among Employees:
Promoting social interaction and fostering a sense of community within the workplace can have significant benefits for employees' mental health. Research suggests that positive social connections can enhance psychological well-being and reduce the risk of mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.
Incorporating Shaka's wellness tools can serve as an excellent, lightweight first step for employers to demonstrate their commitment to their employees' mental well-being. Shaka's wellness feature offers short 5-minute stretches, brief meditations, and a fun music tool, all easily integrated into the workday. These tools help employees find focus, relieve stress, and uplift their spirits. By implementing Shaka's wellness tools, employers send a clear message that they value their employees' mental well-being and support their work-life balance.
Fostering a mentally healthy workplace is a win-win for both employers and employees. By implementing the strategies mentioned above and prioritizing mental health, organizations can create a supportive environment that boosts productivity, engagement, and overall well-being. Prioritizing mental health is not only the right thing to do; it is also a sound business investment that yields positive returns for everyone involved.
If you would like to learn how Shaka can help you support employee mental health, please fill out the demo request form on our website or email contact@joinshaka.com