Shining a Light on Mental Health in the Workplace

The month of May is designated as Mental Health Awareness Month—a crucial time to amplify the role employers have surrounding mental health issues, break down stigmas, and foster supportive environments, especially in the workplace. Mental health issues affect individuals across all walks of life.  

·   According to the World Health Organization (WHO), depression and anxiety disorders cost the global economy an estimated $1 trillion per year in lost productivity.

·   In the United States, approximately 1 in 5 adults experience mental illness annually, with 18.1% of adults having experienced an anxiety disorder.

·   The American Institute of Stress reports that stress is the leading cause of absenteeism, presenteeism, and turnover in the workplace, contributing to an estimated $300 billion in lost productivity annually.

Productivity and Performance Suffer.

·   Employees with untreated mental health conditions are less productive and engaged at work, leading to decreased performance levels and higher incidents of workplace conflict.

·   Research suggests that workplace stress can result in a 50% reduction in employee productivity.

·   Mental health issues can manifest in various ways, including decreased concentration, decision-making difficulties, and increased errors or accidents on the job.

Stigma and Barriers to Seeking Help.

Stigma remains a significant barrier to seeking help for mental health issues in the workplace. Many employees fear disclosing their mental health struggles due to concerns about stigma, discrimination, or potential repercussions from employers.  Despite the availability of resources and support, a significant percentage of individuals do not seek treatment for mental health conditions, further exacerbating the issue.

The Importance of Workplace Mental Health Initiatives.

Employers play a pivotal role in fostering a supportive and inclusive workplace culture. Encouraging open dialogue about mental health, providing access to resources and support services, and promoting work-life balance are essential steps in prioritizing employee well-being.

At Prism HR Consulting, we believe a multi-tiered approach to mental health wellness in the workplace is crucial.  Through our Live Well – Work Well programs, we work with employers to assess their existing wellness initiatives, make recommendations to enhance and expand wellness programs, and offer programs such as 1-1 coaching and mentoring services, training programs and health and wellness resources and information.

As we observe Mental Health Awareness Month, let us recognize the significance of addressing mental health in the workplace. By understanding the statistics, breaking down stigmas, and implementing supportive initiatives, we can create healthier, more resilient work environments.