Awareness about mental health and wellbeing has never been more front-of-mind for organisations and business leaders alike. Over the last decade, we’ve seen a paradigm shift in thinking, where general attitudes towards mental wellbeing have transformed. It’s no longer acceptable for organisations to completely ignore mental wellbeing, or discredit employees who need help.
The narrative has changed to normalise speaking about mental health - and workplaces have played and continue to play a crucial role in doing so. However, despite the increased awareness of mental wellbeing, mental health issues continue to be pervasive, especially in Australia and New Zealand.
We’re bombarded by headlines warning us of a looming recession and hard times ahead, which directly follow two years spent in and out of lockdowns. We’re still adjusting to hybrid work, faster career movement, and the Great Resignation; all of which can have a great impact on an individual’s mental wellbeing.
How can the workplace help?
We first need to define who’s responsible for mental wellbeing. While we all know that reducing stress, creating a strong culture, and acknowledging that mental health problems do exist are all helpful strategies, are we clear on which team is the guiding force for all things mental health?
It’s a debate running rampant in online forums, as well as HR and H&S communities alike.
If your people are experiencing stress and fatigue, do you have a dedicated, qualified person or group of people who can help care for them?