Poor mental health can have a severe impact on your business. Even if you’re mentally well, your employees may be facing their own mental health struggles. Recent studies have shown that around 80% of adults with depression have difficulty with work, home, or social activities because of their symptoms. Mental health may seem like a taboo topic for the workplace, but you would be surprised. In a survey from Peldon Rose, 72% of employees want employers to champion mental health. The following steps can help you promote a workplace that supports mental health.

Awareness

Lots of people who suffer from mental illness don’t even realize it, which can significantly impair their productivity and well-being. Basic awareness can go a long way toward ensuring your employees are getting the help they need. Make sure your employees have access to national organizations like the American Psychiatric Association, the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance, Mental Health America, and the National Alliance on Mental Illness.

Screening Resources

Encouraging participation in free and anonymous online screenings is another way to look out for your employee’s well-being. One such screening resource is helpyourselfhelpothers.org, where they host a free depression screening questionnaire.

Engagement Surveys

Pay close attention to engagement surveys to spot potential health issues. When people are engaged, they’re enthusiastic, positive, and happy to contribute to the team. In contrast, when people are disengaged, they’re at higher risk of burnout, stress, and alienation, all of which can damage a person’s mental health.

Mental health is challenging to navigate in the business world, but it’s imperative to address it. I encourage you to use this as the starting point for your research to better assist your staff. If you’re an AFEUSA member, take advantage of your NeedyMeds discount so you or your team get the medication needed to be at your best.

Article by
Wayne Goshkarian,
Senior Advisor

Wayne Goshkarian in front of his jet