The recent SHRM research by Ragan Decker is a reminder that employers must take mental health in the workplace more seriously. Decker’s research found that work is negatively impacting employee’s mental health and if employers do not address this problem, it could result in significant risks for their employees.
Mental health issues are a growing concern in the workplace, with employees of all ages, genders, and backgrounds experiencing symptoms of mental health problems. According to the SHRM report, a staggering 34% of employees report feeling overwhelmed or burned out due to their work. In addition, 32% of employees report feeling anxious, depressed, or isolated due to their work.
Employers need to take proactive steps to ensure that their employees are supported and that their mental health is not compromised. It is vitally important that employers are aware of the signs of mental health issues in the workplace and are prepared to act swiftly if they are identified.
The first step employers should take is to create a workplace culture that is supportive and inclusive of mental health issues. This means creating an environment where employees feel comfortable discussing their mental health concerns and where they are supported when they do so. Employers should also ensure that they are providing accessible mental health resources, such as Employee Assistance Programs, to their employees.
In addition, employers should be aware of the warning signs of mental health issues. These signs can include changes in an employee’s performance, changes in their behavior, or changes in their physical health. If an employer notices any of these signs, they should take the initiative to speak to the employee and offer them support.
Finally, employers should also ensure that they are providing adequate training and education on mental health issues to their employees. This could include providing mental health resources, such as books, articles, and videos, or having mental health professionals come in to provide educational seminars.
It is clear that employers must take mental health in the workplace more seriously. If employers do not take proactive steps to ensure that their employees are supported and that their mental health is not compromised, it could result in significant risks for their employees. By taking these steps, employers can create a workplace culture that is supportive and inclusive of mental health and help ensure that their employees are healthy and productive.
