Charities like Dorset Mind understand the complexities surrounding mental health in the workplace and are committed to helping organisations support their teams. In this blog, ViewHR explores practical strategies that businesses can implement to effectively support employees suffering from poor mental health.

1. Develop a Clear Mental Health Policy

One of the first steps for businesses is to create a formal mental health policy. A well-thought-out policy shows that the business takes mental health seriously and is committed to supporting employees. Key elements to include are:

• Clear Definitions: Outline what mental health means, the company’s stance on it, and how the policy supports this.
• Disclosure Guidelines: Offer a straightforward and confidential process for employees to disclose mental health issues, ensuring they feel safe doing so.
• Supportive Measures: Highlight the resources available, from signposting to organisations there to help, to access to Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs) or counselling services through to mental health days.

A comprehensive mental health policy can help create a supportive and clear framework together with guidance for both employees and managers.

2. Train Line Managers to Recognise and Respond

Managers play a crucial role in supporting employees’ mental health. However, many managers lack the necessary training to recognise the signs of poor mental health or know how to offer support effectively. Providing mental health training can equip them with the tools they need to handle sensitive situations confidently.

• Early Recognition: Training should focus on how to identify early signs of mental health challenges, such as changes in performance, mood, or behaviour.
• Holding Empathetic Conversations: Managers should be trained to listen actively and without judgement. The ability to have supportive, open conversations can make a significant difference in how comfortable an employee feels seeking help from their employer.
• Referral to Professional Support: Ensure managers know when and how to refer employees to further professional help, whether it’s through internal support or external mental health services. Making sure that there is support for managers too.

Investing in management training is one of the most impactful steps businesses can take in creating a mentally healthy workplace.

3. Promote a Positive Work-Life Balance

For many, poor mental health is exacerbated by an imbalance between their work and personal life. Ensuring employees can disconnect from work when at home and or offering flexible working arrangements can help employees manage their mental health more effectively while still contributing to the business. Consideration should be given to:

• Flexible Hours
• Remote Working/Office Locations:
• Workload Management

4. Create an Open, Supportive Culture

Stigma remains a significant barrier to employees seeking help for mental health problems. To overcome this, businesses need to create an open and supportive environment where mental health is seen as equally important as physical health.

• Regular Communication: Normalise conversations about mental health through regular internal communications, such as newsletters, workshops, or wellbeing days.
• Mental Health Champions: Train managers and supervisors to provide support and signpost employees to resources.
• Lead by Example: Leadership plays a key role in setting the tone. When senior staff members are open about mental health, it creates a culture where employees feel more comfortable sharing their own experiences.

Encouraging openness around mental health helps to break down stigma and builds a supportive workplace culture.

5. Provide Access to Professional Support

Many employees may need professional help beyond what the workplace can offer. Therefore, businesses should ensure employees are signposted to and aware of professional mental health resources.

Offering professional support such as Employee Assistance Programme can significantly reduce the burden on employees and provide them with the help they need in managing their mental health.

6. Encourage Regular Check-ins

In many cases, employees experiencing poor mental health may not feel comfortable coming forward. Regular check-ins can help identify any issues early on, providing an opportunity to offer support before things escalate.

Remember, regular, informal conversations are a simple yet effective way of ensuring that employees feel supported.

Conclusion

Supporting mental health in the workplace is not just a legal and moral obligation; it is also a smart business decision. When employees feel supported, they are more engaged, productive, and loyal to the organisation.

By implementing clear strategies and fostering a supportive culture, businesses can play a key role in improving the mental health of their employees.

For more information on supporting mental health in the workplace, utilise the experience of Dorset Mind and ViewHR!

Thank you…

Huge thanks to View HR’s Director, Gemma Murphy for sharing her insights into the policies and support that employers can put in place to help their employees who live with mental health challenges for World Mental Health Day.