Mental health is a serious problem for people, families, and organizations in the UK and Europe. Think about the one in four UK citizens who have mental health issues each year! What is this, though? It is troublesome for everyone that many businesses still fail to take mental health into sufficient account.
Consider this: When people with mental health illnesses don't receive therapy, it seems as though they are suffering. Afterward, they could choose to leave their job, work less efficiently, take several absences from work, or do all of the above.
This can result in issues like errors, mishaps, and disputes with coworkers—not a great environment, is it not?
And here's the thing: because of this, firms wind up spending more money. They must pay for healthcare, lose money because employees aren't working as efficiently, and handle a growing number of problems brought on by workers who are wounded at work.
But fear not, there are awesome things that businesses can do to assist. They can provide people with resources such as access to specialists, specific programs for assistance, and even simply the knowledge that it's OK to express one's feelings to others.
Bosses also play a significant role. They may demonstrate to everyone the value of caring for one's own mental health. They can impose regulations that encourage employees to work more leisurely, such as more flexible working hours or the ability to sometimes work from home.
The wonderful part is that when companies execute these actions, amazing things take place. People are happier, more productive, and take fewer sick days. The atmosphere at work improves, becoming one where everyone is happy and comfortable sharing how they're doing.
The government in the UK is also taking action to assist. They produced a study titled "Thriving at Work" to assist companies in ensuring the wellbeing of their workforce. The European Network for Workplace Health Promotion is an organisation in Europe that offers suggestions on how to improve workplaces for mental health.
Therefore, relax since things are improving. Businesses are realizing the need of caring for their employees' mental health. They are providing resources, educating everyone about mental health, and creating a welcoming and open environment at work.
A lot of people are speaking up. They are letting their managers know what they require, such as speaking with experts and receiving more help. Everyone benefits when companies ensure the mental wellness of their staff. People are more content, perform better at work, and businesses even end up making money over time.
Keep in mind that caring for your mental health is not only morally right, but also wise. Businesses are learning that when they support their employees' mental health, everything improves. So let's continue discussing mental health and improving our workplaces!
Mind. (2021). Mental Health in the Workplace. Retrieved from https://www.mind.org.uk/workplace/mental-health-at-work/about-mental-health-in-the-workplace/
Mental Health Europe. (2021). Mental Health in the Workplace. Retrieved from https://www.mhe-sme.org/topics/mental-health-in-the-workplace/
European Agency for Safety and Health at Work. (2021). Mental Health in the Workplace. Retrieved from https://osha.europa.eu/en/themes/psychosocial-risks-and-stress/mental-health-workplace
GOV.UK. (2017). Thriving at Work: A Review of Mental Health and Employers. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/thriving-at-work-a-review-of-mental-health-and-employers
European Network for Workplace Health Promotion. (n.d.). https://www.enwhp.org/