| May is Mental Health Awareness Month |
| Our workplaces play a signicant role in our lives. Work affects both our physical and mental well-being – in good ways and bad. How Does Mental Health Affect the Workplace? Poor mental health at work is a growing concern for employers, and it’s easy to see why. In today’s workplace, where new technology, automation, and artificial intelligence are rapidly transforming the way we do business, keeping employees engaged and productive is more important than ever. And while many companies offer health care benefits to their employees, they don’t always address the underlying causes of poor mental health. According to the US Department of Health and Human Services: 76% of U.S. workers reported at least one symptom of a mental health condition 84% of respondents said their workplace conditions had contributed to at least one mental health challenge 81% of workers reported that they will be looking for workplaces that support mental health in the future In addition, recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) shows that over one-third (36%) of US workers are experiencing symptoms related to depression or anxiety on any given day. The impact of poor mental health in the workplace may be evident with symptoms such as: High turnover rate Employees who frequently call out sick Teams struggling to meet targets Evidence of stress or burnout in employees How can you improve the mental health of your workplace? Workplace mental health programs aren’t just a nice-to-have—they’re a game changer for employee well-being and business success. From Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) to mental health training, the right support can boost productivity, reduce burnout, and create a more engaged workforce. When employees feel supported, they’re more likely to stay motivated and invested in their work. Positive and supportive workplace practices can boost employee mental health, company morale, and your bottom line. Here are a few key considerations for addressing mental health at work: Train your managers to promote health and well-being and how to identify common signs of mental health issues at work Consider work-life balance and flexible work arrangements, increase employees’ options for where, when, and how they work Reevaluate your health insurance policies to include a focus on employee mental health and mental health options, include an EAP to your benefits package Develop open communications: Listen to what your employees need and use their feedback to evolve EAPs, flexible work policies, and wellness initiatives give employees access to resources when they need them most. But the real impact comes when companies actively foster a culture that normalizes mental health conversations and encourages work-life balance. Small changes—like manager check-ins, mental health days, and clear communication about available resources—can make a big difference. Prioritizing mental health isn’t just about compliance or benefits—it’s about building a workplace where people thrive. When businesses invest in well-being, they create stronger teams, better performance, and a culture that attracts top talent. A little effort goes a long way in making work a place where people feel valued and supported. For additional information, please call our our office at (714) 799-1115 |
