Workplace mental health: Defining responsibility and best practices

Fewer than 50% of professionals regard their mental health and well-being as “positive”. This alarming statistic revealed by the Hays Barometer Report, underscores a significant disconnect in the employer-employee relationship. There exists a disparity between the level of support employers claim to provide and what employees perceive or feel they receive. As 72% of organizations have increased their focus on mental health and well-being, only 26% of professionals can agree with said statement.

The report's findings highlight an urgent need for action to address the escalating mental health issues. Now the question is, who should be held accountable for the mental health and well-being of employees?

Understanding mental health in today’s work environment

In Canada’s current economic climate, marked by inflation and geopolitical shifts, the well-being of employees is increasingly at stake. With inflation rates soaring, financial stress and uncertainty have become prevalent concerns, affecting the mental health of Canadian workers.

Making the case for employer involvement

In the current Canadian work environment, it is widely anticipated that leaders will take an active role in supporting and being accountable for their team’s mental health.

This perspective is reinforced as 94% of employers in our Hays Barometer acknowledge their part in this endeavor, with most accepting either a ‘significant’ or ‘moderate’ degree of responsibility for the mental well-being of their staff.

The advantages of employer support for employee mental health

Employers are crucial in fostering and maintaining mental health at work. The benefits for employers are undeniable, with supported and satisfied employees tending to:

• Remain in their position longer
• Have fewer unexpected absences
• Show greater levels of productivity and innovation

A resilient workforce that can effectively handle stress is more likely to perform optimally.

Well-being initiatives as talent attraction

Support for mental health and well-being is increasingly recognized as a vital component of employee benefits that resonates deeply with staff. To attract and retain the best talent, employers must look beyond conventional benefit packages. Today’s professionals are emphasizing what truly matters in their personal lives, with physical and mental health taking center stage. Transparency and sincerity about the mental health support provided are essential for employers aiming to attract and maintain a dedicated workforce.

The 2024 Hays Salary Guide offers insights into the key drivers shaping the world of work, including where employees’ mental health and wellbeing currently stands. Download your copy here.

The role of employees in workplace well-being

Employees hold a significant share in creating a positive and healthy work environment. It is essential for employees to prioritize their own physical and mental well-being, as work is a substantial part of life. However, work can sometimes be a source of stress and disrupt the delicate equilibrium of work-life balance.

To complement the mental health efforts put forth by employers, it is crucial for employees to:

• Connect with others to develop a supportive network at work that can bring you comfort and peace of mind.
• Staying active can improve your mental health by reducing stress and increasing overall wellbeing.
• Having a balanced and nutritious diet throughout the working day can make all the difference in performance.
• Taking the time to think and journal your thoughts provides time for self-reflection.
• Communicate openly with your colleagues if you are encountering difficulties and need support.

Additionally, employees should follow the health and safety guidelines provided by their employers, such as taking regular breaks and incorporating physical activities like ‘walk-and-talk’ meetings into their routine. These practices not only help manage stress but also contribute to mental well-being.

Actively looking after one’s mental health at work is not just good for personal well-being; it’s also crucial for career development and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

Joint efforts for mental health in the workplace

The responsibility for mental health and well-being in the workplace is shared between employers and employees. Employers are responsible for developing and enforcing comprehensive policies and programs that support mental health. In turn, employees are encouraged to engage with these programs.

• Employers must make the mental health and well-being of their employees a top priority by taking active steps to improve it and by encouraging employee involvement in related programs.
• Employees should complement their employer’s efforts by practicing self-care and mental health strategies at work. Such a cooperative approach ensures that mental health management becomes a core aspect of the company’s culture, benefiting everyone involved.

Mental health and well-being are integral to our lives. It’s crucial to take proactive steps to maintain a healthy work-life balance so we may thrive in our personal and professional lives and avoid falling into burnout.