Five ways to implement mental health practices into your company culture.
Maintaining good mental health is crucial for overall wellbeing and productivity, and the workplace plays a significant role in shaping our mental wellbeing. Employers have a responsibility to create an environment that supports and promotes positive mental health among their employees.
In this article, Coinadrink Limited explores five effective strategies to foster better mental health in the workplace, in line with Mental Health Awareness Week 2023.
Encourage a supportive culture.
Creating an atmosphere of open communication is essential for promoting improved wellbeing. Encourage employees to speak up about their concerns or challenges they may be facing.
Your company should foster a supportive culture by providing a safe space where individuals can share their thoughts without fear of judgment or reprisal. Regularly check in with employees to assess their wellbeing and actively listen to their concerns.
By promoting a culture of open communication, you create an environment where employees feel valued and supported. This leads to improved wellbeing.
Prioritise a work-life balance.
A meaningful work-life balance is vital for maintaining good mental health. Encourage employees to establish clear boundaries between work and personal life by promoting healthy work habits.
Avoid excessive overtime and ensure employees have ample time to relax and recharge outside of work. Offer flexible work arrangements, such as remote work options or flexible hours, that allow employees to better manage their personal commitments.
By prioritising work-life balance, employees can better manage stress and achieve a healthier equilibrium between their personal and professional lives.
Foster an inclusive work environment.
A positive and inclusive work environment plays a crucial role in promoting mental health.
Encourage teamwork, collaboration, and recognition of employee achievements. Celebrate diversity and create an inclusive culture where all employees feel valued and respected. Implement anti-bullying and harassment policies to ensure a safe and supportive workplace for everyone.
By fostering a positive and inclusive work environment, you promote a sense of belonging and psychological safety, which are essential for maintaining good mental health.
Offer mental health support and resources.
Providing access to mental health support and resources is vital for promoting better mental health in the workplace.
Offer employee assistance programmes that provide confidential counselling services and support for personal or work-related issues. Educate employees about available mental health resources, both within and outside the organisation. Train managers to recognise signs of mental distress and provide appropriate support.
By offering comprehensive mental health support, you empower employees to seek help when needed and ensure they receive the care and assistance necessary for their wellbeing.
Remember to take breaks.
Taking regular breaks at work are not a luxury. They are a necessity. Breakout spaces are a quick fix to an immediate need and provide respite for the stresses and strains of the working day.
Previously, business leaders have incorrectly assumed that taking breaks are detrimental. In fact, it is quite the opposite. Stress can lead to burnout, which is naturally extremely damaging to an employee’s motivation and productivity. A good leader should promote the benefits of taking breaks in the workplace, which includes taking them themselves and setting a good example.
Of course, having a dedicated space in the workplace is vital to encourage staff to take a moment when needed. These locations should be clearly separate to the rest of the workplace, with refreshment facilities and comfy seating a must.
Make mental health a priority!
Promoting better mental health in the workplace is a shared responsibility between employers and employees.
By implementing these strategies, employers can create a supportive and conducive environment that fosters good mental health. Open communication, work-life balance, stress management techniques, a positive work environment, and accessible mental health resources all contribute to creating a mentally healthy workplace.
Remember, investing in the mental wellbeing of your employees not only benefits them individually but also leads to increased productivity which in turn benefits the business.
Talk to Coinadrink Limited today about how we can help, a West Midlands vending machine and refreshment operator that has been improving company culture with valuable employee benefits since 1962.
From small office coffee machines in meeting rooms to fully managed vending machines and Micro Market solutions in breakout areas, our solutions encourage regular breaks and promote meaningful communication with colleagues.
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