Let’s Talk About Mental Health at Work
The topic of mental health is becoming increasingly important in the workplace. As the stigma surrounding mental health decreases, employers and unions are recognizing the importance of addressing mental health in the workplace. Chris Therien, founder of Bundy Recovery, a mental health and addiction treatment resource, understands the importance of addressing mental health in the workplace and is committed to helping employers and unions understand the benefits of doing so. In this blog post, we will discuss the importance of addressing mental health in the workplace, the benefits of doing so, and provide some tips for employers and unions to help create a mentally healthy workplace.
The amount studies show that mental health issues cost employers an estimated each year in lost productivity
The Importance of Addressing Mental Health in the Workplace
Mental health issues are prevalent in the workplace, with 1 in 5 adults experiencing mental illness each year in the United States alone (National Alliance on Mental Illness). These issues can have a significant impact on workplace productivity, absenteeism, and turnover rates. In fact, studies show that mental health issues cost employers an estimated $44 billion each year in lost productivity (Center for Workplace Mental Health). Addressing mental health in the workplace is not only the right thing to do, but it also makes good business sense.
Benefits of Addressing Mental Health in the Workplace
Addressing mental health in the workplace can have numerous benefits for both employers and employees. Some of the benefits include:
Increased productivity: When employees are mentally healthy, they are more productive and engaged in their work.
Reduced absenteeism and turnover rates: Addressing mental health issues can reduce absenteeism and turnover rates, which can save employers money in the long run.
Improved workplace culture: A mentally healthy workplace is one where employees feel valued and supported, which can lead to improved workplace culture and job satisfaction.
Tips for Employers and Unions
Addressing mental health in the workplace can seem daunting, but there are steps that employers and unions can take to create a mentally healthy workplace. Some tips include:
Offer mental health resources: Providing mental health resources, such as employee assistance programs (EAPs) and counseling services, can help employees address mental health issues before they become more severe.
Encourage open communication: Encouraging open communication about mental health can help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and make it easier for employees to seek help when they need it.
Provide training: Providing mental health training for managers and employees can help them recognize the signs of mental health issues and how to address them.
Foster a supportive workplace culture: Creating a workplace culture that is supportive of mental health can help reduce the stigma and encourage employees to seek help when they need it.
Chris Therien, founder of Bundy Recovery, understands the importance of addressing mental health in the workplace and is committed to helping employers and unions create mentally healthy workplaces. By providing mental health resources and education, Bundy Recovery can help employers and unions address mental health issues and create a more productive and supportive workplace. Reach out to Chris today to see how he can help at 800-638-5370 or email: [email protected]
Evaluate Constantly and Respond
In addition to the tips mentioned above, it’s important for employers and unions to understand that addressing mental health in the workplace is an ongoing process. It’s not enough to simply offer mental health resources and training; employers and unions must also regularly assess the mental health needs of their employees and adjust their policies and resources accordingly. This can involve conducting surveys or focus groups to gather feedback from employees, reviewing mental health benefits and policies, and ensuring that mental health is a regular topic of discussion in the workplace. By making mental health a priority and continually working to create a mentally healthy workplace, employers and unions can help their employees thrive both personally and professionally.
Don’t Wait for the Crisis to happen Avert the Crisis Before it Happens
Addressing mental health in the workplace is not only the right thing to do, but it also makes good business sense. Mental health issues can have a significant impact on workplace productivity, absenteeism, and turnover rates. By addressing mental health issues in the workplace, employers and unions can create a more productive, supportive, and positive workplace culture. Chris Therien, founder of Bundy Recovery, is ready and waiting to help employers and unions create mentally healthy workplaces by providing mental health resources and education. Together, we can create a workplace culture that supports mental health and leads to a happier, healthier workforce.