Implementing Mental Health Strategies in the Workplace

In the workplace, poor mental health, more specifically depression and anxiety, can lead to absenteeism on the job which in turn decreases productivity for both the employee and the business. Around 264 million people suffer from depression, which happens to be one of the leading causes of disability. Working people suffering from mental health problems tend to take four times more unplanned time off than those without any concerns.  

Mental illness can impact anyone at any given time which is why it is important to promote a positive work environment with healthy social interaction, approachable management, work-life balance, and job satisfaction. If you enable your employees to thrive, productivity will increase. Acknowledging the significance of mental health and helping employees have resources readily available to them will help decrease absenteeism.  

According to a 2022 Gallup survey, less than half of U.S. workers are aware of the mental health services available through their employers. Oftentimes, employees don’t know where to find mental health resources their company offers and don’t feel comfortable reaching out to ask. This makes it extremely important for employers to outline what is accessible to team members and how to promote it effectively. For instance, Seubert has implemented a few strategies in the workplace to help combat stress and fatigue, as well as educate employees about the mental health outlets and resources available to them. Here are just a few examples:

• Healthy vending machines in our café – which gives healthier options when searching for an afternoon snack 
• Fresh fruit delivered to the office weekly – not only makes it simpler to opt for healthier choices but also contributes to enhancing the office’s energy levels when placed in the kitchen. 
• A quiet room is available for a moment of privacy – designated for personal phone calls, rest, or even a space to decompress.  
• Seubert funded Self-Improvement Plan – allows an employee to submit a request to participate in a class, activity or lessons that will enrich and enhance their life.  
• Regular webinars are provided to educate on healthy habits – and improve knowledge on various mental issues such as resilience, stress, and burnout.  
• Specialized Lunch & Learns – in-house lunch and learn events are held throughout the year that feature guest speakers who touch on topics regarding anything from mental health to improving sedentary behavior. 
• Mental Health Coaching and Professional Assistance – offered through Seubert’s medical provider. Similarly, our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offers 3 free sessions with a licensed counselor and online phone support 24/7 to all employees.  
• Physical Well-being and Movement – in addition to Seubert’s in-house gym, Seubert has partnered with a wellness provider that promotes office-wide movement and camaraderie through friendly challenges and communication initiatives. 

In conclusion, by creating a supportive workplace environment and promoting mental health resources like those at Seubert, we can reduce absenteeism, enhance employee well-being, and boost overall productivity.

Sources
Gallup – The Economic Cost of Poor Employee Mental Health
National Library of Medicine – The effect of mental and physical health problems on sickness absence