Implementing a mental health programme in the workplace is no longer a nice–to–have, or something to potentially consider. It’s a necessity, just like all other aspects of your business,such as IT systems, security measures, quality controls, or client contracts. If organisations wish to grow and enhance their performance, then mental health is a key component. This is because your employees’ mental health and well-being is directly related to their level of performance, productivity, engagement, and creativity. Just think about yourself. When you’re not feeling well, what’s your level of decision-making, concentration span, social interaction, or quality of work like? Are you more prone to isolate, produce unacceptable work, not go the extra mile for your colleagues or clients, or actively contribute to conversations?
There are five indicators of the negative impact of not taking mental health seriously in the workplace. These numbers are increasing dramatically, as more people are becoming mentally ill, and are openly talking about it.
Mental illness
88% experience symptoms of depression
47% regard asking for help as a weakness
46% suffer from mental health symptoms
Physical health
52% have trouble sleeping
15% increase their prescription medication
Productivity and efficiency
52% have reduced interest in their tasks
13% of managers have received mental health training
76% of employees feel unsupported by their companies
Emotional health
51% of employees feel hopeless
41% of employees feel lonely working from home
31% of employees experience task anxiety
Burnout
42% of women suffer from burnout
58% of Millennials and Gen Zs are affected by mental distress
75% of employees experience burnout in their career
People in the workplace whose mental health is strong and supported are able to remain flexible with change, take responsibility for their tasks, and cope with challenges proactively. Assisting organisations to grow and, in turn, for their employees to thrive, is a win-win solution for everybody to achieve their fullest potential.
Over to you for sharing your comments and experiences.
What can you do to raise awareness the importance of mental health in your organisation?
About the Author: Kerstin Jatho
Kerstin is the senior transformational coach and team development facilitator for 4Seeds Consulting. She is also the author of Growing Butterfly Wings, a book on applying positive psychology principles during a lengthy recovery. Her passion is to develop people-centred organisations where people thrive and achieve their potential in the workplace. You can find Kerstin on LinkedIn, Soundcloud, YouTube and Facebook.
