Increasing awareness of available employee mental health benefits has become a crucial function of human resources. Forward-thinking organizations are now supporting mental health more frequently, creating a positive and productive workplace.
Mental health impacts how well people perform at work, their efficiency and overall satisfaction with the job and employer. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), mental health challenges can lead to more sick days, lower productivity and higher job turnover.
HR professionals – review these strategies and resources to enhance mental health benefits in your organization and improve the wellbeing of your employees:
Promoting empathy and a culture of mental health awareness
Company leadership has the important task of creating a work culture that prioritizes mental health. Empathetic leadership fosters a trusting environment where employees feel recognized, appreciated and inspired.
Leaders can regularly promote peer support networks and mental health awareness events that further reinforce the importance of mental health in the workplace.
One of Alight’s mental health partners, Lyra Health, suggests eight steps to being an empathetic leader:
- Listen actively
- Show genuine concern
- Communicate openly and honestly
- Adapt to unique needs and circumstances
- Promote inclusivity
- Lead by example
- Use during change
- Take care of yourself
Creating a supportive culture where mental health is openly discussed and valued can significantly impact employees' overall wellbeing.
Training to identify mental health challenges
Managers and employees should also receive training to recognize signs of mental health issues, thus allowing for early intervention.
Additionally, a comprehensive training program helps break the stigma of seeking mental health support. This can include workshops, seminars and online courses that educate employees on mental health topics, such as stress management, coping strategies and the importance of self-care. By providing these resources, organizations can empower employees to take charge of their mental health and seek help when needed.
Employee mental health benefits
Break down the barriers, help your people understand and identify the best options, and keep them engaged.
Comprehensive employee mental health benefits and resources
Offering access to mental health professionals, such as counselors or therapists can provide employees with the support they need.
For example, services like Alight's Healthcare Navigation can make a significant difference. These services assist employees in finding mental health providers who are not only local but also highly rated and cost-effective, ensuring they receive quality care without financial strain. Alight’s platform streamlines the process by offering personalized recommendations based on employees' specific needs and preferences, thus removing the uncertainty and effort of searching for the right mental health professional.
Many organizations partner with Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) to offer confidential counseling services and resources. These programs can be invaluable for employees dealing with personal or work-related issues that may affect their mental health.
Additionally, programs like mental health days contribute to fostering a positive mental health environment within the workplace.
According to Journey, another Alight mental health partner, “Offering mental health days is one step towards supporting the mental wellness of employees during a time when mental health issues like depression and anxiety are skyrocketing. They can support healthy company culture, attract new talent and improve a company’s return.”
Utilizing technology for mental health support
Alight partners Journey and Lyra Health offer innovative apps designed to enhance mental health support for employees. These apps provide a variety of features aimed at addressing and managing mental health challenges effectively.
Some key features of these apps include:
- Virtual counseling sessions: Employees can schedule and participate in virtual therapy sessions with licensed mental health professionals, providing them with convenient access to care from the comfort of their own homes.
- Mental health assessments: These tools allow employees to evaluate their mental health through guided questionnaires, helping them understand their emotional wellbeing and identify areas needing attention.
- Stress management tools: The apps offer techniques and exercises, such as guided meditation and mindfulness practices, designed to help employees manage stress and maintain mental balance.
- Educational resources: A wealth of articles, videos and interactive materials on various mental health topics, such as coping strategies and self-care, are available to educate and empower employees.
- Personalized recommendations: Based on individual needs and preferences, the apps provide tailored suggestions for mental health professionals and resources, streamlining the process of finding the right support.
- Progress tracking: Employees can monitor their mental health journey, set goals and track improvements over time, fostering a proactive approach to their wellbeing.
Utilizing these digital tools can significantly enhance the mental health initiatives within an organization, providing employees with the resources they need to thrive.
Continuous improvement in employee mental health programs
Updating employee mental health benefits is challenging, but don't make one-time changes. Stay informed on research and best practices. Regularly update programs and involve employees in their development.
Assess your program's effectiveness with surveys, feedback forms and performance data. Review results and adjust based on feedback. Monitor absenteeism, productivity and overall satisfaction.
Investing in employee mental health benefits helps both companies and their people. By implementing comprehensive initiatives, providing resources and promoting mental health awareness, employers can foster a happier, healthier, more productive workplace.
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