The global pandemic has forced us to see that when you treat people like human beings, when you care about them, its just better for the employees and its better for your business.
National Council for Mental Well-being
- 1 in 5 Americans has a mental health concern.
- 40% of employees with a mental health concerns take time off because of it, up to 10 days per year.
- Mental health issues or challenges are the leading cause of disability worldwide.
- 1 in 10 full-time employees has an addiction.
- Depression and anxiety cost the global economy $1 trillion per year in lost productivity.
- Workplace stress and burnout can increase the risk for any employee to develop a mental health concern.
Recent publication: Now More than Ever, Employers Must Provide Mental Health Support for Employees
Common Signs and Symptoms of Stress and Trauma at Work
- Calling in sick often/absenteeism and presenteeism
- Withdrawal/isolation
- Personality changes
- Difficulty focusing and remembering details
- Appearing more unkept than usual
- Difficulty organizing thoughts and tasks
- No longer enjoying work, hobbies, or activities
- Sadness/worry/increasing self-blame and self-criticism
- Hopelessness/helplessness/feeling trapped
Trends in Workplace Mental Health
- Fostering a resilient workplace
- Wellness will be every leader’s priority
- Holistic approach to employee wellness benefits
- Tailored mental health support for underrepresented employee groups
- Mental health support is the new normal
How to Foster a Resilient Workplace
- Reduce stigma around requesting accommodations.
- Consider mental health days.
- Hold tough conversations.
- Practice conflict resolution
- Establish healthy boundaries.
- Do not over-commit yourself.
- Talk about mental health.
What Can You Do for Yourself?
- Feel your feelings
- Intentionally employ coping strategies
- Perform regular check-ins with yourself
- Take breaks from the news and social media
- Be fortified by remembering the importance and meaning in your Work
What Can You Do For Staff or Employees?
- Adjust staffing procedures and schedules
- Offer access to support
- Frequent staff well-being check-ins
- Create an environment of open communication
- Facilitate training
- Share and explore resources
- Incorporate guidance on managing stress
- Model healthy coping strategies
How to Build Professional Resilience
- Accept change and be flexible.
- Become a continuous learner.
- Take charge.
- Cultivate relationships.
- Pay attention to self-identity.
- Find YOUR sense of purpose.
- Reflect
- Skill Shift
“The Mental Health First Aid at Work” Program
- Raise awareness and build literacy.
- Enable open conversations.
- Helps identify signs and symptoms.
- Provide strategies for response.
- Highlights resources for well-being support
For more information on free Mental Health First Aide training: Mental Health First Aid
To find a free virtual course or one near you to meet your needs: Find A Course – Mental Health First Aid
If you have any questions on how to utilize this resource or schedule a training, please contact us.
Other Resources
(new) There’s a link between mental health and keeping workers from quitting (cnbc.com)
How employers can improve their approach to mental health at work | McKinsey
Trauma Informed Workplaces (applicable to any business) Trauma-Informed Workplaces — Congregational Consulting Group
Coronavirus’ business impact: Evolving perspective | McKinsey
COVID-19 Impact and the Future of Small Business | SCORE
Mount Sinai Center for Stress, Resilience and Personal Growth – Dr. Dennis Charney Center for Stress, Resilience, and Personal Growth | Icahn School of Medicine (mssm.edu)
Coronavirus.wa.gov – Guidance and Resources for Businesses and Employers
COVID and the Implications for Business Coronavirus’ business impact: Evolving perspective | McKinsey
Workplace Stress and Anxiety Insights
Overcoming Business Challenges Posed by the Pandemic | DSS (consultdss.com)
5 Ways to Boost Your Resilience at Work (hbr.org)
COVID-19 Business Related Resources (please review reliable sources and sites for best practices)
COVID_19_Infographic_Overcoming_Business Challenges.pdf (consultdss.com)
COVID-19 Guidance: Businesses and Employers | CDC
Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) | Occupational Safety and Health Administration (osha.gov)
Please take this opportunity to donate to Trauma Responsive Frederick to support the educational, operational, and advocacy activities. We need your help! Thank you. Click here: Trauma Responsive Frederick Fund (frederickcountygives.org)