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In pictures: How businesses can support mental health in the workplace
Clinical psychologist Dr Saliha Afridi, PsyD, says there is plenty of scope for workplaces to play a part in supporting employees’ mental wellbeing
Clinical psychologist Dr Saliha Afridi, PsyD, says there is plenty of scope for workplaces to play a part in supporting employees' mental wellbeing.
Insurance goes a long way: One of the best ways a company can make the shift towards wellbeing is to include mental health care in their medical insurance policy. This, along with mental health awareness and prevention campaigns as part of the company’s internal communications, will go a long way, making sure all stakeholders within the company are included and involved.
Training staff to be first aiders: Businesses should consider training HR and individuals within the team to be mental health first aiders. We know that one out of four people worldwide struggle with a mental health problem within their lifetime, but the majority of those will not be detected or treated. Knowing this, we can do our very best to train people to detect mental health problems. Early detection is as close to prevention.
Building awareness: Public campaigns to raise mental health literacy and building awareness of mental health issues are a great way to start the conversation and to diffuse existing stigma around mental health difficulties. Having prominent people championing the agenda can help reduce the stigma. Businesses also play a
critical component in shifting any culture.
Providing support: One of the challenges to people accessing the support they need is the stigma in the region that surrounds accessing mental health support. The goal is to raise awareness about mental health and holistic wellbeing. It is so clear when people go through a journey of introspection and reflection that they feel transformed.
Creating a vibrant work culture: Over 80 percent of primary care health visits are stress related. Furthermore, stress is related to the top six causes of death that include heart disease. We have all the research but we ignore it because we cannot ‘see the problem’. Therefore, the need for a more employee-centric and positive working environment will enable staff to be more enthusiastic about work.
