In the era of remote work and hustle culture, mental health can sometimes take a backseat to other priorities. For many of us, doing a good job at work may involve overworking ourselves, but that shouldn’t be the case. Implementing positive mental health practices in the workplace is essential for fostering a healthy and productive work environment. According to Exhale’s The State of Self-Care for Black Women report, nearly 40 percent of Black women have left their jobs due to feeling unsafe.
When employees feel supported and have access to mental health resources, they are more likely to be engaged, motivated, and committed to their work. This can lead to higher productivity, better job performance, and increased creativity and innovation. By prioritizing mental health, companies can reduce the practice where employees are physically present but mentally disengaged, thus ensuring a more efficient and effective workforce.
In today’s competitive job market, prospective employees are increasingly looking for employers who prioritize mental well-being and offer comprehensive support systems. Companies known for their commitment to mental health can attract top talent, gain a competitive edge, and foster a positive public image. Whether you’re a new graduate on the job hunt or a seasoned veteran looking for your next work quest, here are the ways your job can use effective wellness practices.
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Establish Work-Life Balance
We know it can be hard to close the laptop and stop checking emails, but effective boundaries should be in place so employees are not focused on work past office hours. According to data, 48 percent of workers call themselves “workaholics,” and 66 percent skip one meal per day due to working hours.
Manage Workload Effectively
In a recent Hubstaff survey, 60 percent of US workers say they don’t have boundaries between work and life. Back-to-back tasks can sometimes increase stress levels, so it’s essential to prioritize key goals during the day and pace yourself to avoid instant burnout.
Open Communication
Effective communication with your colleagues or leaders can create an environment of transparency that can build great trust within the workplace. According to Forbes, with work from home increasing to 58 percent of the workforce (92 million workers), digital communication has become a focal point of workplace communication and productivity.
Utilizing On-Site Mental Health Resources
With mental health conversations actively at the forefront of workplace culture, on-site resources are key to a positive work environment. According to a study conducted by the American Psychological Association, the majority (77 percent) of workers reported being very (36 percent) or somewhat (41 percent) satisfied with the support for mental health and well-being they receive from their employers, and more than half (59 percent) strongly (22 percent) or somewhat (37 percent) agreed that their employer regularly provides information about available mental health resources.
Supportive Work Environment
Support is the most valuable thing in the workplace because it shows solidarity among the company and those you work with daily. According to data, only about one-third (35 percent) reported that their employer offers a culture where breaks are encouraged. Better communication and support are needed for employees to feel comfortable enough to be transparent when they feel their mental health is declining.
About the Author: Kenyatta Victoria is the lead writer for Essence GU, working on all things pop culture, politics, entertainment and business. Throughout her time at GU, she’s garnered devoted readers and specializes in the Zillennial point of view.