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Cultivating Compassionate Workplaces

Mental health challenges don’t just affect individuals – they ripple through entire organizations and communities. This year’s World Mental Health Day focus is the vital link between mental health and the workplace. 

Everyone, including parents and caregivers, and people with chronic conditions or disabilities faces sources of stress, but evidence proves work and working conditions affect people’s mental health status – and in a big way.  

The Widespread Impact of Poor Mental Health 

Americans are navigating demanding jobs in a rapidly shifting economy, and mental health challenges are increasingly common. Half of Americans will be diagnosed with a mental health condition in their lifetime and 60% of the national population are working adults.  

While anxiety, depression and other mental health conditions may not be visible, the conditions – if left untreated – are bound to influence the way employees interact with clients and colleagues. Mental health concerns are causing employees to not show up and underperform in the workplace and can often escalate to job demotion or job loss.  

The lost productivity, missed work, high turnover and under-employment have economic consequences for individuals, companies and countries.   

Workplaces Can Exacerbate Existing Conditions 

While some stressors start at home, mental health conditions can be exacerbated by work or working conditions. Upwards of 35% of those working say their jobs and workplaces have a negative impact on their mental health.  

Stigma and lack of support for mental health issues in workplaces can often increase stress, locking some otherwise dedicated employees into a pattern of isolation and job insecurity. Among stand-out talent, the future’s top recruits will be looking for workplaces that support mental health.  

Creating a Supportive Workplace 

Greater responsibility for a collaborative work environment begins with full coverage of mental health benefits and employee assistance programs. Not only do these tools provide tangible benefits in times of crisis, promoting them builds a culture of understanding where employees feel safe seeking help.  

Reducing stigma and providing mental health resources are crucial first steps. From there, employers can lead with tangible workplace norms like promoting email etiquette and designating “No Meeting” days. Fostering a culture of care, including respecting time off and compassionately checking on people who aren’t performing up to potential are also best practices for supportive workplaces.  

People who have experienced and overcome mental health challenges can lead the way in developing healthier practices.  

Resources to Support Mental Wellbeing 

The Surgeon General’s Framework for Health and Wellbeing, compiled by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, found that a focus on workplace well-being leads to better employee performance and reduced health care costs.  

Evidence-based interventions to make workplaces more inclusive and productive are available from the World Health Organization, aiming to “ensure everyone has the ability to thrive” and contribute all around the world. There’s no better time than today, World Mental Health Day, to start making positive changes.