Mentally Aware, Mentally Prepare
Mental health disorders are complex with biological, psychological, social and environmental factors playing a role which could develop or worsen in the workplace. Factors could include workload (excessive or insufficient), lack of participation or control, unpleasant or monotonous tasks, conflict, lack of recognition, inequity, poor interpersonal relationships, poor working conditions, poor leadership, poor communication and conflicting home and work demands. Good mental health is vital during these trying times with families being together for extended periods, education concerns, job losses or cut backs, financial burdens and social interaction. All of these factors increase feelings of isolation, irritation, fear and anxiety.
In order to help each other, and with the emphasis on managers being more aware, we need to break the stigma of mental health. Some of the key symptoms to look for in your co-workers or family include feelings of sadness, hopelessness and emptiness, tearfulness, agitation or anger, loss of interest, weight fluctuation, unusual fatigue and unexplained physical issues such as headaches (excessive sick leave).
What can employers do to assist employees improve their mental health?
Encourage staff who are battling with any mental health symptoms to speak to their HR mentor or manager. This needs to remain confidential. The HR Manager can assist by finding out if the medical aid has a programme in place or assist in finding an external service provider or mentor within the company. The onus remains on the employee to follow through with any assistance offered as the company can only assist with the process.
Other ideas are to host a stress reduction workshop, create an awareness board internally for all staff, arrange an exercise programme or encourage staff to join a gym. Companies can host a wellness day or have a break-away or escape room for staff to enjoy a bit of time away and reflect. Invite your employees to a coffee meeting and provide interesting subjects and a light healthy breakfast or host an outdoor event. Discuss mental health with your employees and get to know them better by interacting more. Once you know your employees and co-workers, it will be easier to pick up when the employee is not doing well. Do not avoid employees/co-workers on the days they are battling, engage with them and ask how they are and how they are feeling. A good way to uplift employees is to have a gratitude challenge and ask them to journal 3 things daily they are grateful for. A suggestion is to put up a board where employees can leave notes anonymously for sharing.
If you suspect a mental illness with family, employees or co-workers encourage them to seek professional assistance as soon as possible. Do not hesitate to engage with someone trustworthy should you yourself need assistance.