[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

By Kelly Fisher

Mental health/wellbeing has become a major talking point in recent years. It affects people’s personal and professional life.  And while some companies may feel that it’s not up to them to take care of their employees’ mental well-being, many good bosses know that a happy employee is a productive one. 

Here are four ways a company can improve employee mental health. 

Host a wellness day 

Company wellness days used to focus almost entirely on physical health. There would be stations for cholesterol checks, stations for advice on food to eat, and stations for fitness checks, for example. But, with mental health taking a knock, it’s a good time for companies to look at adding more mental health checks on these days. This could mean including free assessments or sessions with therapists on the day, a fun activity that boosts moods and morale, or resources to help employees take better care of their wellbeing. 

Do fun team-building

We understand that not everyone is keen on team-building. In fact, you can probably hear people audibly groan when you suggest this. But, more often than not, team-building sessions do wonders for morale and overall mental wellbeing. When these sessions are fun and held on company time instead of after hours, employees are more likely to get involved and be excited about them. For companies that have offices around the country you can opt for virtual experiences to include all the staff. You could try a group Airbnb Online Experience. You could opt to do a live virtual safari together or a group meditation or dance session with a qualified facilitator. There are many experiences to choose from and all allow your employees to step away from work for a bit and just relax and have some fun.

Subsidise therapy sessions where possible 

We understand that this is not something that all companies can offer. But if you can offer one or two sessions per employee every now and then, it would go a long way towards showing how much you value your team.  These sessions don’t even have to be in-person. Transport and traffic are a reality, and not everyone can take the time off to consult a therapist or counsellor. The sessions could be through services such as Better Help that allow for virtual consultations via video call, email or even text. 

 Lead from the front 

Employees take their cue from managers. If they see you working until late into the night and starting early in the morning, they will believe that this is expected of them too. They won’t switch off if you don’t.  If you show that you have tools to spend time with your family or to do something that brings you joy, they will do the same. If you message your team at all hours of the day and night, they will feel inclined to do the same. Don’t put this pressure on them. Set a good example and take better care of your mental health in order for them to do the same.

When it comes to employees’ health and wellness, as a leader you can do so much more to make their time with you more rewarding and productive. 

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_code _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

[/et_pb_code][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]