Highlights:

• Mental health challenges affect 1 in 5 Canadians, impacting productivity and absenteeism in the workforce.
• Workplace stigma around mental health is declining, with increased openness in discussions.
• Employers can enhance support by implementing or reviewing policies and strategies during Mental Health Awareness Month.
• Connect employees to mental health resources and promote well-being through breaks, flexibility, and social connections.

Mental health has been top of mind for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) across the country. One in five Canadians lives with mental health challenges, according to Mental Health Research Canada. Employers will see the effects of this on their business in various ways, such as, an increase in absenteeism, low staff morale, and decreased productivity.
 

Based on a survey conducted by Peninsula Canada, 43% of employees have noticed that people are talking more openly about their mental health in the workplace. However, there’s still so much more to be done. Check out how employers can support and address mental health in the workplace.

1. Open and Clear Communication

One of the main causes of stress in the workplace is a heavy workload. Burnout has been a topic that has been top of mind for some time now, as it has become very common within workplaces. Employers can do their part by having routine meetings for check-ins, communicating in advance when change is coming, and providing support when needed. This will help employees manage their time and workload more effectively and create a more engaged culture that better supports employee wellbeing.

2. Mental Health Resources

Providing mental health resources in the workplace plays a crucial role in supporting the overall well-being of employees. Investing in resources can provide support for any employees struggling with mental health issues to get the assistance they need. Employers should evaluate their company benefits as there are various areas that should be considered from a mental health perspective. For example, does your policy include mental health coverage, time off policies, or an Employee Assistance Program? It’s important to note that not every business offers such benefits or has an employee assistance program. Employers can share external resources with employees to ensure they get the support they need.

3. Mental Health Policy

Policies provide consistency, guidance, and clarity on how an organization operates. Having a mental health policy in the workplace will help to set a clear process to follow when an employee discloses a mental health issue or requires an accommodation. Include your mental health policy in your employee handbook and share it with your staff to make it accessible.

4. Encourage Well-Being

Supporting the overall well-being of staff will help to increase employee morale and productivity. There are multiple ways employers can promote well-being. Some examples include demonstrating a work-life balance, reminding staff to take their designated time off, walking meetings, and encouraging staff to use their benefits. It’s important that staff know that their employer values their well-being as much as their productivity.

Author Bio

Michelle Ann Zoleta is Health & Safety Advice Manager at Peninsula Canada. She also coaches the health & safety advisory team on addressing difficult inquiries from clients in the eight provinces where Peninsula operates. Michelle is passionate about ensuring all Peninsula clients get the professional advice and assistance they are seeking to comply with the health and safety laws of their respective provinces.

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