Mental health can play a big role in our thinking, feeling, and relating to others. For the employees, this is directly linked to their capability of staying productive, creative, and committed at work. The ill effects on mental health ultimately lead to burnt-out people who show low performance and sometimes problems in physical health that become stumbling blocks to their success. On the other hand, support for mental wellbeing will contribute not only to the employees but also to strengthening the workplace. When we understand its importance, we can create an environment where everyone feels supported and empowered to reach their full potential.

What Is Employee Mental Health?

Mental health refers to our emotional, psychological, and social well-being and plays a key role in overall wellness. Studies show that mental and physical health are closely connected, influencing our thoughts, emotions, and actions. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), chronic conditions like cancer, heart disease, or diabetes can increase the risk of developing mental health issues. Similarly, mental health challenges, such as depression, may heighten the risk of physical illnesses.

Good performance at work is highly influenced by mental health. Poor mental health leads to low efficiency, creativity, and social engagement of the workforce. Addressing mental health supports businesses in promoting the flourishing of their employees and their full potential, adding value to the success of an organisation.

Signs of Mental Health Issues in The Workplace

We all have tough days at work where things don’t go as planned. You may feel that you can’t concentrate, are stressed, cross with everyone, and don’t have the energy or motivation to do anything. When these feelings are experienced every day, something may be seriously wrong.

Mental health problems develop over time, and it’s easy to become used to feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or low at work and think this is normal. By ignoring early warning signs, things are likely to get worse, leading to burnout, physical health problems, and difficulties in your personal and professional life.

While the symptoms may vary from person to person, it is equally important to notice some changes in your thoughts, feelings, or behaviours. If several of the following are true for you or someone you know, then it may be time to reach out for help:

• Declining work performance: Struggling to complete daily tasks or maintain focus at work, home, or socially.
• Difficulty concentrating or thinking clearly: Trouble focusing, remembering things, or experiencing noticeable changes in speech patterns.
• Appetite or sleep changes: Insomnia, oversleeping, sudden appetite shifts, or turning to alcohol or drugs to cope.
• Mood changes: Feeling hopeless, on edge, or having mood swings, including thoughts of self-harm.
• Loss of interest: Losing enthusiasm for work, hobbies, or social activities, often accompanied by withdrawal or apathy.
• Increased fear or nervousness: Feeling unusually suspicious, nervous, or fearful in work or social situations.
• Heightened sensitivity: Being overly sensitive to noise, light, or stimulation and avoiding overstimulating environments.
• Unusual behaviour: Feeling disconnected, behaving unpredictably, or seeing or hearing things that aren’t real.
• Unexplained physical pain: Experiencing headaches, stomach issues, or muscle pain without a clear cause.

Recognising these signs early can help prevent further challenges and encourage timely support.

Also read: What is EAP? A Guide for Business Owners in Melbourne

Why Talking About Mental Health at Work Matters

The success and longevity of a business heavily depend on the mental health of its employees. Good mental health will also enable a person to cope better with work challenges, stresses, and setbacks, which means resilience when things get really bad.

Most employees hesitate to discuss their mental health struggles, partly because they feel judged or repercussions. On the other hand, when managers and supervisors are open to discussions on mental health, it creates a supportive environment for everyone.

A focus on mental well-being not only enhances creativity and happiness but also fosters a sense of self-worth among employees. These qualities contribute to improved performance and a stronger workplace culture.

How to Care for Your Mental Health in The Workplace

Taking care of your mental health in the workplace is much more than just managing immediate stressors or pressures to meet demands; it involves instilling behaviors that promote long-term well-being and resilience. Here are a few practical tips:

• Time to Recharge: Take time off for personal or sick days. If you’re struggling consistently with anxiety and depression, seek out support beyond what the school might be able to offer you.
• Work-Life Balance: Make time to take breaks throughout your day and to not work after your scheduled shift is over. Take the opportunity to spend much-needed time with loved ones and enjoy your hobbies.
• Practice relaxation techniques: Such activities as meditation, deep breathing, yoga, or rhythmic exercise can help engage your body’s relaxation response and reduce stress.  
• Take good care of yourself: Emphasize sleeping well, eating well, and engaging in regular exercise. These little things can go a long way in strengthening mental health. When necessary, a therapist can teach one about strategies of self-care.
• Find Meaning in Your Work: Even if your job isn’t ideal, find ways to find purpose. It might mean focusing on how your work helps others, developing relationships with coworkers, or pursuing additional training to grow in your role.  
• Build Connections: Develop supportive relationships from coworkers. This can be through collaboration, socializing on breaks, or through team activities that help improve mood and reduce stress.
• Develop Resilience: Resilience is what helps you to handle challenges, setbacks, and stresses at work more effectively. Building it takes time and effort, but it can improve your outlook and help you bounce back stronger.  

By taking in these strategies, you will have a healthier and more enriching work experience.

How Employers Can Support Mental Health

Supporting workplace mental health doesn’t need to be costly or complicated. Here are some effective strategies:

• Offer a Range of Benefits: Provide affordable health insurance, retirement plans, mental health programs, and financial wellness support to reduce employee stress about their health and finances.
• Flexible Work Options: Allow flexible hours or remote work to help employees maintain a better work-life balance without significant costs.
• Regular Check-Ins: Schedule meetings where supervisors can discuss how employees are doing, address any concerns, and keep them motivated by discussing career growth and goals.
• Confidential Communication: Set up a secure online system for employees to connect with HR or supervisors privately, making it easier to address concerns and get quick responses.
• Workplace Perks: Offer small but meaningful perks like wellness challenges, thank-you notes for doing good work, or other programs promoting physical and mental health while showing appreciation.
• Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): Provide confidential services like counseling, childcare support, and fitness programs. These programs give employees the help they need to manage personal or professional challenges effectively.

Support Your Mental Health with Professional Counselling

Handling stress, anxiety, and other challenges to mental health may be overwhelming at times, but it makes all the difference to have support. Here at D’accord OAS, our counseling services offer a secure and supportive environment that will help you find your balance and resilience. Talking to a professional will help in managing your mental health and prospering in both personal and professional life.