Managing mental health at work should be a priority for any company. Employees spend roughly eight hours of their day, that’s 25% of their time, in an environment that should not stress them out, cause burnout, or make them feel oppressed. And it’s not just the company’s business – it should be everyone’s concern!
Here are Ceek’s tips on how you can help improve mental health wellbeing at work...
Talk openly about mental health in the workplace
Mental health, just like physical health, fluctuates. Waking up with a headache is something you’d share with colleagues, so sharing your ‘bad day’ should not be any different. Be open about how you feel – you’d be surprised at the responses you’ll receive.
Share your own personal experience of a mental health condition
Everyone has at one point or another struggled with their mental health. If you feel comfortable speaking about yours, you might just encourage others to do the same and find comfort in sharing their stories.
Encourage open communication when problems arise and help to find solutions
This one is aimed at people in senior positions – we want you to be the fire that could potentially make your work environment healthier. Don’t shy away from these conversations – your team will thank you for it!
Respect other people and celebrate difference
Not everyone struggles and not everyone wants to share their struggles. And that’s perfectly ok. The beauty of a diverse team is having different people from different walks of life coming together in an environment of shared, mutual respect.
Be open to learning about mental health conditions and other people’s experiences
Sometimes people don’t need advice, and if you’re not a mental health professional, our suggestion is to simply listen, empathise, and understand.
Respect the privacy of others
Understand that opening up about mental health struggles in the workplace might bring about stigma – don’t be the cause of someone regretting opening up. It’s not your story to tell.
Be a positive role model
Be genuine in your actions and promote the kind of culture that inspires people to do their best.
Speak up
If you see someone struggling because of unwanted attention or stigma, don’t just let it slide. Educate people whose words might hurt others.
Cooperate with workplace policies and procedures, and support initiatives aimed at improving mental health in the workplace
We cannot stress this one enough – we know that so many companies try their best to make policies that will better the lives of employees, so co-operate with your company in order to really improve the office environment.
Understand how your workplace can support you and how you can access help if you need it
Make sure you’re keeping updated with what your company is offering and make use of resources properly.
At Ceek, we aim to find you your perfect work environment – one that will create mutually beneficial relationships. If you’re interested to see how we can help you, reach out today.
DISCLAIMER –The material presented in this article IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO PRACTICE MEDICINE OR GIVE SPECIFIC MEDICAL ADVICE, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, ADVICE CONCERNING THE TOPIC OF MENTAL HEALTH. The information is for the sole purpose of sharing opinions and is not to be considered complete and does not cover all issues related to mental health. Moreover, this information should not replace consultation with your doctor or other qualified mental health providers and/or specialists.