Creating a Mentally Healthy Workplace
World Mental Health Day, celebrated on October 10th, raises awareness of mental health issues and encourages proactive measures to support mental health across all sectors.
A recent report by the Mental Health Inquiry by Australian Govt. Productivity Commission reveals that mental illness costs Australia up to $70 billion a year, with lost productivity accounting for $17 billion of this total. Moreover, research shows that approximately 45% of Australians will experience a mental health condition in their lifetime, underscoring the need for businesses to prioritise workplace mental health.
Investing in mental health initiatives not only protects employees but also strengthens organisational performance and reputation. This guide will explore actionable steps that HR managers and business leaders can take to foster a mentally healthy workplace.
5 Key Facts About Mental Health and Wellbeing in Australian Workplaces
45% of Australians will face mental illness: Almost half of Australian adults are likely to experience a mental health condition at some point, with anxiety and depression being the most common.
22% of Small Business Owners Report Mental Health Issues: In 2022, more than 22% of small business owners in Australia were diagnosed with a mental health condition, showcasing the growing pressure on business leaders.
High Levels of Psychological Distress: In a 2022 ABS survey, 20% of Australians reported high levels of psychological distress, largely linked to the pandemic and financial stress.
54% of People Do Not Seek Help: According to Beyond Blue, 54% of Australians with a mental illness do not seek any form of treatment.
$70 Billion Annual Cost of Mental Illness: Mental health issues cost the Australian economy up to $70 billion annually, including healthcare and lost productivity.
These statistics highlight the critical importance of addressing mental health in Australian workplaces.
Why Your Workplace Needs a Mental Health Strategy
Boost Employee Retention: Employees who feel supported in their mental health are more likely to stay with the company. Research shows that companies that provide mental health support see a 25% reduction in employee turnover.
Increase Productivity: Businesses with strong mental health programs report a 10-12% increase in productivity, according to the Productivity Commission of Australia.
Reduce Mental Health Risks: A mentally healthy workplace can reduce the risks of absenteeism and presenteeism (working while unwell), which currently costs Australia $10.9 billion a year.
Compliance with Work Health and Safety Laws: Australian WHS laws require employers to manage psychosocial risks at work. Failure to do so can lead to legal liabilities and penalties.
By creating a healthy workplace, employers support their employees’ wellbeing whilst reducing long-term business costs. Win-Win!
8 Ways to Support People and Promote Mental Health at Work
Here are 8 practical ways that HR managers can implement strategies to support employee mental wellbeing at work:
1. Assessing Mental Health Wellbeing at Your Workplace on World Mental Health Day
Evaluate current mental health status: Conduct surveys (see the tools and resources listed below) to assess how your employees feel about their mental health and your workplace culture.
Use available tools: Resources such as the Workplace Wellbeing Assessment by the NSW Government and the Mentally Healthy Workplaces Toolkit by WorkSafe Queensland offer practical frameworks.
Monitor psychosocial risks: Conduct regular psychosocial risk assessments to identify stressors in your work environment that could impact mental health.
2. Implement a Comprehensive Mental Health and Wellbeing Program
Establish mental health initiatives: Include mindfulness programs, counselling, and stress-management workshops. Read our blog post on how to implement a mental wellbeing program for your employees. We feature 7 creative ideas and activities to boost Mental Wellness in the workplace.
Ongoing support: Consider an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) that offers access to confidential counselling and mental health resources. According to Foremind’s article, having an EAP in place reduces workplace absenteeism by 70%.
Educate employees: Ensure employees are aware of the mental health support available to them through your programs.
3. Train Managers to Support People with Mental Health Conditions
Equip managers with mental health training: Provide them with the knowledge to recognise early signs of mental health issues. The Black Dog Institute recommends training that focuses on how managers can support team members.
Promote mental health awareness: Managers should regularly engage in discussions about mental health and encourage employees to speak up without fear of stigma.
Intervene early: Early intervention can prevent escalation of mental health problems, reducing business costs associated with poor mental health.
For more information, contact Anista about services from Vitality Works, Bupa Wellness, and Healthworks.
4. Encourage a Healthy Work-Life Balance
Flexible work arrangements: Offering flexible work options, such as remote or hybrid work, helps employees maintain a work-life balance. A study by Fair Work Commission Australia shows that employees with flexible working conditions report lower stress levels and higher job satisfaction.
Set clear boundaries: Ensure employees understand the importance of logging off after their work hours to prevent burnout.
Promote self-care: Regularly remind employees of the importance of taking breaks and time off to recharge.
5. Reassess Group Health Insurance Policies to Support Employee Mental Health
Review insurance coverage: For organisations that provide employee health insurance through a Health Fund Group Subsidised Plan, now is an ideal time to review your policy. Ensure your company’s health insurance plan includes mental health benefits such as counselling, therapy, or other mental health support services.
Legal compliance: Under work health and safety laws, businesses are required to manage and mitigate psychosocial risks in the workplace.
Ask Anista how they can help with this process.
6. Leverage Existing Partnerships
Collaborate with external providers: Partner with your Employee Assistance Provider (EAP), financial wellness programs, and healthcare providers to deliver on-site mental health workshops, webinars, or health checks.
Address financial stress: Financial stress is a significant factor in mental health. According to research from Beyond Blue and ASIC, financial stress affects 40% of Australians, making it a major contributor to mental illness.
Offer financial education: Programs focused on budgeting, superannuation, and financial planning can help employees manage stress linked to finances.
7. Recognise and Reward Employees
Acknowledge employee achievements: Employees who feel valued are more likely to stay engaged and productive. Recognition can be as simple as public appreciation or small rewards like gift cards.
Boost employee motivation: According to Quantum Workplace research, organizations with formal employee recognition programs have 31% less voluntary turnover than organizations that don't have any program at all.
8. Innovative Approach: Use “Thrive Program by Vitality Works” to Promote Mental Health at Work
Comprehensive mental health support: The "Thrive" program by Vitality Works offers:
Unlimited therapy sessions for employees
A digital mental health platform for self-assessment and support
Personalised wellness plans to meet individual needs
Data insights for employers to track employee wellbeing.
To learn more, visit Vitality Works Thrive.
If You’re Concerned Someone is Thinking About Suicide, Connect:
Emergency on 000 (or 112 from a mobile phone)
Lifeline on 13 11 14
Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800
MensLine Australia on 1300 789 978
Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467
If you’re worried someone may be struggling or thinking about suicide, starting a conversation can make a big difference. The “R U OK?” organisation provides a simple 4-step guide to help you navigate this. Watch the below video to learn how to ask 'R U OK?' and support someone in need:
Conclusion
Supporting mental health at work is vital for the success and sustainability of businesses.
This World Mental Health Day, take actionable steps to assess and improve your organisation’s mental health strategies.
Creating a mentally healthy workplace will not only reduce risks but also boost productivity, engagement, and overall employee wellbeing. Proactively addressing mental health challenges benefits both your employees and your business.
If any of the above resonates with you, feel free to connect with Anista to start a conversation and explore how we can assist your organisation.