Mental Health: Part 3 In the Workplace

By Shreya Chhibber

A healthy mind enables employees to perform at their best, both professionally and personally. Employees who take better care of their mental health tend to produce the most results, concentrate on tasks, make decisions, and solve problems. In contrast, poor mental health can lead to decreased productivity, errors, and increased time off work. Mental Health issues can lead to great rates of absenteeism (missing work) and presenteeism (being at work but not functioning). Both can significantly affect the company’s productivity and bottom line.

Additionally, a supportive environment that prioritizes mental health can improve employee retention. Employees are more likely to stay with a company that values their well being, reducing turnover rates and costs of recruiting and training new staff. Employees who feel mentally well will also contribute new ideas and approaches, driving the company forward.

Hence we need to implement techniques to improve the mental health of employees to benefit society as a whole. Different techniques would include implementing flexible working hours and remote work options, encouraging taking breaks, providing mental health resources including Employee Assistance Programs, and fostering an inclusive workspace where diversity is valued and respected.

More Resources: CDC Guide About Mental Health In the Workplace