Thriving Teams: Your Guide To Employee Mental Wellness

As we observe National Mental Health Month this May, it's a timely reminder of mental health's critical role in our overall well-being—especially in the workplace. It is important that, as individuals and professionals, we remind ourselves of the importance and impact that taking time out of our days to prioritize ourselves can have on our health and well-being.

Let’s dive a bit more into the importance of National Mental Health Month and what businesses like yours can do to help team members.

National Mental Health Month has been observed in the United States since 1949, spearheaded by Mental Health America and its affiliates nationwide. Established to raise awareness about mental health issues and to destigmatize mental illness, the initiative has grown in significance as conversations around mental health have evolved. Through public education and advocacy, National Mental Health Month aims to highlight the importance of mental health and encourage support for those affected.

The mental health landscape in America is a growing concern, with the 2023 State of Mental Health in America report by Mental Health America revealing alarming statistics: 21% of adults, or 50 million Americans, are experiencing a mental health illness. In addition, 15% had a substance use disorder in the past year, and a staggering 93.5% did not receive treatment.

For employers, these numbers are alarming. Approximately 28% of adults with a mental illness reported they were unable to get the help they needed, and 23% of adults who reported 14 or more mentally unhealthy days could not see a doctor due to costs. The report also highlights a significant gap in care, with 350 people for every mental health practitioner in the U.S. This shortage accentuates employers' critical role in bridging the gap for their employees.

The responsibility of employers to address mental health issues has never been more important. It starts with creating a supportive environment where employees feel safe discussing mental health without judgment. The benefits of an open culture include increased productivity and higher employee engagement.

Need help figuring out where to start? We have your back. Here are some steps employers can take:

• Monitor your crew: Recognizing these signs is crucial for timely intervention. These can range from changes in behavior and mood to decreased productivity and withdrawal from social interactions. Early recognition and support help kickstart an employee's mental health recovery.
• Provide access to mental health resources: Employers can offer comprehensive health benefits that include mental health services, promote Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), and provide access to counseling and therapy. Creating partnerships with mental health practitioners can also offer more direct pathways to care.
• Implement policies and benefits for mental well-being: Employers can promote a healthy work-life balance with flexible working hours, remote work options, and mental health days, significantly reducing workplace stress. A culture of wellness that includes fitness memberships and wellness programs further supports employee well-being.

In 2023, we introduced a Global Well-being Day, where we require our team members to disconnect from emails and Teams to focus on what makes them truly happy. The removal of distractions has helped our team so much that we have made it an annual event.

Business leaders are uniquely positioned to make a meaningful difference in the lives of their employees by promoting mental health awareness and providing access to resources.

The journey toward mental wellness is ongoing, and employers play a pivotal role. By investing in workplace mental health initiatives, organizations enhance their employees' well-being and contribute to a more productive, engaged, and healthy workforce.

Resources and further reading

Numerous resources are available for employers looking to enhance mental health support in their organizations, including toolkits, guides, and professional networks dedicated to workplace wellness. Here are some quick links to help you get started:

• Center for Workplace Mental Health, American Psychiatric Association Foundation offers a wide range of resources, including case studies, toolkits (e.g., Working Well Toolkit), and training programs (e.g., Notice.Talk.Act.® at Work) designed to help employers create a more supportive environment for mental health at work.
• Mental Health America provides tools and information focused on workplace wellness, including screening tools and studies on mental health in America. These can be valuable for understanding the broader context and specific needs.
• Mental Health at Work offers case studies, toolkits, resources, and articles focused on improving mental health across various sectors and organization sizes.
• The Wellness Society offers a range of self-help toolkits and resources designed to help individuals manage stress, improve well-being, and support mental health, which can benefit employee wellness programs.

If this article caught your eye, share it internally among HR and leadership so you can be part of integrating mental health strategies in your workplace. This is the first step toward creating a healthier, more supportive workplace that recognizes and addresses employees’ mental health needs empathetically.