Understanding the importance of mental health
Today, mental health has become an increasingly important issue in our society, and rightly so.
It affects every aspect of our lives, from our personal relationships to our professional performance. In particular, mental health in the workplace is a concern that cannot be ignored. It is, therefore, crucial for every business to understand its role in supporting the mental health of its employees.
Mental health encompasses our emotional, psychological, physical and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through to adulthood.
It is widely recognised that workplace stress is one of the major contributors to mental health problems among employees, which can lead to conditions such as depression, anxiety, and burnout. These conditions not only affect a person’s overall physical and mental wellbeing but, from a work perspective, will also impact their productivity and overall performance at work.
Role of HR Professionals and Managers in Supporting Mental Health
Based on recent research, it is clear that HR professionals and managers play a crucial role in promoting mental health in the workplace. They are often the first point of contact for employees who are experiencing mental health issues and unwittingly, may also be contributing to the stress that is affecting them.
According to recent research by The UKG Workforce Institute, almost 70% of people say their manager has more impact on their mental health than their therapist or doctor. In fact, the impact is rated as equal to that of their partner. This data alone proves how important it is to equip our managers with the knowledge and skills to not only handle such situations effectively, but also look out for the signs of mental ill-health in their team members.
Managers and team leaders are integral in creating a supportive work environment where employees feel comfortable discussing their mental health issues. Along with human resources, they can also play a key role in implementing policies and programs that promote mental health and provide resources for employees who need support.
Supporting Mental Health in the Workplace
Free Seminar – Wednesday 8th November, 9.00am to 11.00am, Guildford, Surrey.
To help businesses effectively support their employees’ mental health, The Surrey & Sussex HR Forum is holding a seminar, specifically designed for HR professionals who are looking to develop mental health awareness strategies within their business.
This straight-talking seminar, delivered by specialists in mental health and employee wellbeing, will demonstrate the importance of early intervention and the positive impact this will have on employees and the workplace environment. Ensuring managers gain a deeper understanding of mental health, is not just good business practice, but it is also the right thing to do. By promoting mental health in businesses, we can all create a healthier, happier, and more productive workforce.
The seminar will also provide an excellent opportunity to network and share experiences in an informal environment with others who are also committed to supporting mental health in their organisations.
So, how can you join us? By becoming a member of The Surrey & Sussex HR Forum…
The Surrey & Sussex HR Forum – what is it and how can I join?
Established in 2009, The Surrey & Sussex HR Forum is a welcoming community for HR professionals from a wide range of businesses in Surrey, Sussex, and surrounding areas. Hosting a variety of free events throughout the year, the forum focuses on addressing today’s HR challenges in an informal and no-pressure environment, so that members can focus on learning and building connections.
Membership for HR professionals and hiring managers is free and takes only 2 minutes to apply. By being a member, you will receive priority invitations to all our events and also have the opportunity to be part of our LinkedIn HR Forum Group.
At its core, The Surrey & Sussex HR Forum aims to provide HR professionals with a platform to ‘share knowledge and stay connected’.
Apply for free membership of The Surrey & Sussex HR Forum here, or email: surreyhrforum@therecruitmentconsultancy.com
