Supporting Mental Health in the Workplace – Dos, Don’ts, and Available Supports
Supporting mental health in the workplace is essential for creating a positive, productive, and sustainable environment. While Employment Assistance Programs (EAPs) offer formal support, employees themselves can play a critical role in promoting the well-being of their teams. In this blog, we’ll explore actionable strategies, dos, and don’ts, and how to leverage available support.
1. Why Mental Health Support Matters in the Workplace
Mental health challenges can impact anyone, leading to decreased productivity, absenteeism, and a decline in workplace morale. Research from the World Health Organization (WHO) shows that for every $1 invested in mental health support, there is a $4 return in improved health and productivity.
2. Dos for Supporting Your Team’s Mental Health
Create Open Communication Channels: Encourage a culture where employees feel safe to discuss mental health challenges. Ask open-ended questions like “How are you coping with your workload?” rather than vague inquiries.
Lead by Example: Take mental health days when needed and engage in self-care to show that mental well-being is important at every level of the organization.
Provide Resources: Familiarize yourself with the EAP services available and share them with your team regularly. Support can range from confidential counselling services to stress management programs.
Offer Flexibility: Understand that personal and family responsibilities can affect mental health. Where possible, offer flexible working hours or remote options.
3. Don’ts When Addressing Mental Health in the Workplace
Don’t Diagnose or Offer Personal Advice: You’re not a trained therapist, and attempting to diagnose or provide solutions might worsen the situation. Instead, refer employees to professionals within the EAP or external services.
Avoid Minimizing Concerns: Phrases like “just push through” or “we all have bad days” can invalidate someone’s feelings. Be empathetic, listen actively, and avoid dismissing their experience.
Don’t Ignore Red Flags: Changes in behaviour, missed deadlines, or withdrawal from team activities can signal deeper issues. If you notice these signs, engage the employee privately and suggest available support.
4. How EAPs Can Help
EAPs provide confidential counselling services, stress management workshops, financial and legal advice, and more. Employees can access support via phone, video, or face-to-face sessions. Encouraging the use of EAPs can help create a workplace culture where mental health is a priority.
5. Practical Tips for Team Leaders
Schedule regular check-ins.
Normalize mental health conversations.
Use team-building exercises to reduce stress.
Monitor workloads and adjust expectations if necessary.
Supporting your team’s mental health is about creating an open, understanding environment while guiding them toward professional support when needed. With the right approach, you can help foster resilience and productivity across your team.