Mental Health struggles are no longer just a personal matter—they impact the workplace as well. When an employee is not feeling their best, this can be seen through reduced productivity, absenteeism, presenteeism, and turnover. Employers play an important role in improving the health of their employees. This starts with making the workplace environment suitable for an employee to be their healthiest, most productive self.
4 Ways to Create a Supportive Workplace Environment
- Encourage managers to have weekly “check-ins” – this can include a simple message or email but can go a long way to make employees feel more connected and comfortable having conversations with their manager.
- Consider educating employees on mental health resources that are available to them through their benefits or in the community. Better yet, bring in a mental health professional to educate employees on mental health basics.
- Create a quiet space for employees to unwind – it can be as simple as turning an unused conference room into a small meditation space or repurposing an old office. If most of your workers are remote, consider offering access to a mindfulness/meditation app and encouraging them to take breaks throughout the day as needed. Studies show that workers are often more productive after taking regular short breaks throughout the day.
- Offer flexibility – this is often the most important factor when employees are deciding on where to work. When possible, offer your employees the flexibility to change their schedule when something comes up with family or other commitments. This will often pay dividends when it comes to employee loyalty and retention.
Walsh Duffield is Here to Help
It is more important than ever in this competitive job market to create a supportive environment for your employees. Many of these strategies come at little to no cost but can have major returns in terms of employee happiness, retention, and productivity. By implementing supportive policies and communicating openly with employees, your organization will begin to build a culture that supports employee wellbeing.
Walsh Duffield is dedicated to helping keep your employees safe and well. For more information on how to integrate mental health into your organization’s culture visit walshduffield.com/wellbeing or contact us to get started.
Sarah Ray, MS, RD – Corporate Wellbeing Consultant
Walsh Duffield Companies, Inc.
sray@walshduffield.com