Bupa Global revealed in a study from last year that 25% of senior workers agree that there is less support surrounding mental health once you reach a certain professional level.
It’s a worrying statistic that needs addressing, so that there is awareness and support available in the workplace, whatever the hierarchy.
Whether it’s the part-time cleaner or the CEO, mental health matters
No matter what the size of the business, or the position held, looking after the emotional wellbeing of staff should be a top priority. It shouldn’t need a diagnosis for personal wellness to become a consideration.
According to mental health charity, MIND, 1 in 4 people will experience a mental health problem. Job title, salary, or level of responsibility, will not influence this. Mental wellbeing is something that unites us all.
With this in mind, we’ve put together a few pieces of key advice on what businesses can be doing today to consider the health and happiness of their staff
Feel the benefits of flexible working
You don’t need us to tell you that mental health issues don’t come with an on/off button, nor do they fit in nicely around your work and social schedule. They happen when they happen, and for this reason it’s beneficial for employers to permit a bit of slack around working hours and location.
Allowing staff to come in an hour or so later, or to work from home if they feel that they need to, is a great way to show that their wellness is being considered and accommodated.
Be transparent about the business’ ups and downs
If you own or work within a large company with multiple offices around the country (or even the world), this is more difficult to achieve, but not impossible.
Making time to keep staff – at all levels – in the loop goes a long way towards reducing anxiety, and fosters a culture of trust amongst the workforce.
Don’t stand in the way of socialising
30% of those who have a best friend at work are 7 times more engaged with their jobs. Doing what you can to stimulate social relationships improves communication. It ensures staff have somewhere to turn to if they need to talk.
Let’s get physical!
Encourage walking meetings, stand-up meetings, lunch time fitness classes and freedom of movement around the workplace.
Whatever gets staff moving without damaging productivity is a great way to capitalise on the connection between physical health and mental vitality.
