The Importance of Mental Health in the Workplace
Mental health has become an important factor in workplace relations over the last few years and therefore has called for the attention of HR professionals. Mental health proves to be one of the crucial touching points in the lives of employees as it affects not only the productivity and engagement of the individual employee but also the general performance of the organization. Therefore, it is important on the part of an organization to provide a facilitating work environment to uplift the mental well-being of the employees.
One of the important reasons why mental health should be a priority for HR is that it has a direct link with employee productivity. According to the World Health Organization, depression and anxiety result in about US$1 trillion in lost productivity annually from the global economy. Employees facing mental health issues usually demonstrate lower motivation and higher absenteeism. Thus, through initiatives on mental health, HR can help to overcome such challenges and increase workforce productivity.
Besides, workplace culture may promote employee retention. Focusing on mental health, the organization demonstrates care for employees, which means building a loyal group of workers and decreasing turnover. In support, it has been reported that "employees with poor mental health are less likely to quit if their companies provide resources to support their mental health, thus decreasing hiring and training costs" (Harter et al., 2002). On the other hand, the HR sector can plan training programs for the managers to understand how to identify an employee who is having problems with mental health so that timely intervention and support can be given to them.
Moreover, the work mental health initiatives can enhance morale in the workplace and also a sense of belonging. Those who feel comfortable discussing issues with regard to their mental health are most likely to speak freely with their colleagues and supervisors. Such openness may lead to a way more collaborative, innovative workplace culture, generally propelling business success.
The HR professional should be able to incorporate mental health days into the leave policies, provide EAPs, and encourage open discussions around mental wellbeing. By putting mental wellbeing at the forefront, HR is serving not only the employees but helping to create a healthier, productive organization.
References
Harter, J. K., Schmidt, F. L., & Hayes, T. L. (2002). Business-unit-level relationship between employee satisfaction, employee engagement, and business outcomes: A meta-analysis. Journal of Applied Psychology, 87(2), 268-279.
Schmidt, K., Rüsch, N., & Müller, M. (2020). The role of stigma in the workplace: a qualitative study on the experiences of employees with mental health problems. BMC Public Health, 20, 60.
World Health Organization. (2019). Mental health at work. Retrieved from <WHO website>.
Insightful post on the importance of mental health in the workplace! Prioritizing mental well-being not only supports employees but also boosts productivity and fosters a positive work environment. Valuable read!
ReplyDeleteExcellent post on the importance of mental health in the workplace! Your insights into how mental health resources and training programs can reduce turnover and boost morale are spot on. Highlighting the benefits of open discussions and mental health days shows a comprehensive approach to creating a supportive and productive work environment. Well-researched and highly relevant.
ReplyDeleteEmphasizes the critical role of mental health in the workplace. It highlights how HR can support employee well-being through mental health programs, promoting work-life balance, and fostering an environment where employees feel comfortable discussing mental health. Addressing mental health needs not only boosts morale but also improves productivity and overall organizational success.
ReplyDeletePrioritizing mental health in the workplace is crucial for boosting productivity, retention, and morale. HR's commitment to supporting mental well-being fosters a collaborative culture, enhancing overall organizational success and employee satisfaction.
ReplyDeleteThis article really puts into perspective how important mental health is with regard to workplace productivity and retaining employees. By prioritizing mental well being through support programs and open dialogue HR fosters a healthier more engaged workforce. This approach is good not only for the employees but also for organizational success reducing turnover costs.
ReplyDeleteGiving mental health pride of place in the
ReplyDeleteworkplace will guarantee productivity, reduce absenteeism, and build employee
loyalty. It is Human Resources' initiatives on mental health resources, open discussions,
and training of managers that help create a supporting atmosphere where morale
and business success are secured.
mental health in the work place is increasingly recognized as a critical factor in overall employee well being,productivity,and organizational success.I love this blog because menal health is very important than oters.
ReplyDeleteEncouraging employees to take care of their mental health while at work increases productivity, retention levels, and overall employee satisfaction. Employees manuals need to clearly delineate HR’s role in making available the necessary supportive resources together with facilitating open conversations which leads to a healthier, more engaged and committed workforce.
ReplyDelete