Year-Round Commitment to Mental Health in the Workplace

By Annick Bessawa

World Mental Health Day serves as a reminder for organizations to prioritize employee wellbeing, emphasizing the need for ongoing support throughout the year. This year's theme focused on the importance of listening to individuals with lived experiences of mental health challenges, aiming to foster understanding and diminish stigma in workplace environments. By establishing a culture where employees feel safe to discuss their mental health and know how to access support, companies can make a significant impact on wellbeing.

Employers should encourage participation in Mental Health Day activities while allowing individual choice, as mental health is a personal matter. Offering a diverse range of inclusive activities can help engage different personalities and comfort levels, promoting psychological safety and reinforcing the importance of mental wellbeing.

Small-group creative activities are effective for encouraging participation, as they facilitate open communication and teamwork. Incorporating fun challenges or competitions can further enhance engagement by leveraging our natural desire to collaborate and achieve shared goals.

Organizations with limited budgets can still effectively recognize Mental Health Day. Low-cost activities focused on connection and dialogue are valuable. The World Health Organization offers free resources that organizations can utilize, such as fact sheets and video testimonials. Teams can collaborate on projects that educate about mental health conditions, reinforcing awareness and support.

Encouraging employees to take breaks from their desks for lunch or walks is another simple yet impactful initiative. These activities allow for mental resets, reduce stress, and help maintain focus. By fostering communal spaces for team lunches or initiating lunchtime walking groups, organizations can contribute positively to employee wellbeing with minimal expense.

When an employee discloses their struggles, it's crucial to listen with empathy and create a supportive environment. While not expected to be mental health professionals, managers should acknowledge the employee's feelings and ensure confidentiality. Providing information on relevant support services is also essential to guide them toward the help they need.

To ensure the benefits of Mental Health Day extend beyond the designated day, organizations should integrate mental health practices into their culture. Regular discussions about mental health, ongoing training for managers, and the promotion of support services are necessary for lasting impact. Year-round initiatives may include wellbeing check-ins, mental health awareness campaigns, and encouraging employees to take breaks and annual leave.

Employers should remain responsive to employee feedback regarding wellbeing initiatives. Consistent visibility and leadership support can foster a workplace culture that prioritizes mental health every day, not just on Mental Health Day.

Annick Bessawa is a mental health training and support expert with St John Ambulance.