Tips for Creating a Mentally Healthy Workplace

By Danielle McNamee, ProcessWorx

While all employees have a responsibility in looking after their own mental health, managers also play a critical role in creating a mentally healthy workplace.

Managers will be in close contact with their employees, allowing them to observe their behaviour and influence their work environment. Alternatively, staff will also look to their managers for leadership, guidance and support. Workplace mental health should be a high priority for any business, and there are several things managers can do to improve the workplace environment.

 1. Increase your own knowledge about mental health and be aware of the support available

This will help you to better understand what someone with a mental health condition may be experiencing and how to best support them. You will be able to identify early signs and symptoms of conditions like anxiety and depression and suggest appropriate support methods.

 2. Educate staff and encourage open conversation about mental health

Education and training will equip staff with the information and tools they need to recognise if they or one of their colleagues are struggling. Sharing personal experiences and encouraging conversation will also help reduce the stigma around mental health in the workplace.

 3. Demonstrate healthy work habits

This could include taking regular breaks, avoiding emails and calls outside of work hours and leaving work on time. As a manager, it can sometimes be isolating, so taking time out to look after yourself will show your staff they should be doing the same.

4. Provide support to employees who are struggling with mental health

Supporting an employee who is struggling with their mental health is crucial in helping that person stay in their role, which results in various benefits for both the employee and business. Every workplace has a legal responsibility to make reasonable adjustments to help a person remain at work, provided they can meet the core requirements of the job. This could include offering flexible working hours, adjusting the person’s workload and providing additional guidance and support.

 You should also consider putting a Mental Health Workplace Procedure in place. This is an important document outlining how mental health issues in the workplace will be managed.  

If you require assistance with workplace mental health, please contact ProcessWorx on (08) 9316 9896 or email enquiries@processworx.com.au