- Normalize The Conversation of Mental Health. Talking about mental health at work can increase trust between coworkers, provide a safe space for those struggling in silence, and create a positive and open culture where employees feel like they can bring their whole selves to work. Encourage employees to treat their mental health with the same level of importance as their physical health.
- Educate Your Workforce. Providing mental health awareness training to your workforce will help reduce the stigma associated with mental illnesses. Businesses that take the initiative to train employees with first aid are equipped for someone who needs CPR, but what if an employee has a panic attack? Some people may not understand how to interact or support someone managing a mental health challenge or crisis. Early intervention is essential for a mental health condition, primarily due to the condition’s lack of physical signs. Those around us at work, with whom we spend most of our time, are the most likely to spot those signs. However, trained employees are far more likely to be present and ready to offer help with warning signs than those who are not.
- Create Ally Leadership. If you’re in a leadership role, you have incredible power to create change in your organization. Create a social experience for team members to talk about their experience with mental health, both in life and at your current workplace. They might be able to gauge the temperature of your workplace better when it comes to opinions about mental health, provide some insight into company history or leadership positions on the issue, or commit to partnering with you to reduce stigma about mental health at work.
- Provide Accessible Resources. Routinely share the mental health resources your company offers. Provide tips and other resources about topics like stress and burnout and a policy around mental health days, wellness breaks, or additional support they can provide at work.
