Why Mental Health matters to your business

In case you weren’t aware, Mental Health Awareness Week started yesterday and runs until 21 May. Promoted by the Mental Health Foundation, it seeks to raise awareness about mental health issues and reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness. It's a time to educate the public about the importance of mental health and to encourage people to seek help when they need it. 

As a professional recruiter, it's essential to prioritise the mental health and wellness of your staff. A healthy and happy workforce is not only more productive, but it also leads to a more positive and supportive workplace culture. 

We’ve compiled a few reasons why mental health awareness should be a priority for recruiters: 

• Mental health issues are common: According to the World Health Organization (WHO), one in four people in the world will be affected by mental or neurological disorders at some point in their lives. This means that mental health issues are incredibly common, and chances are that some of your employees may be struggling. 
• Mental health issues can impact work performance: Mental health issues can have a significant impact on an employee's work performance. Symptoms such as fatigue, anxiety, and depression can make it difficult to concentrate and complete tasks efficiently.
• Workplace stress is a major contributor to mental health issues: Work-related stress is a significant contributor to mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.
• Supporting mental health is good for business: A positive and supportive workplace culture can help to attract and retain top talent. When employees feel supported and valued, they are more likely to be engaged and motivated in their work. This, in turn, can lead to better business outcomes, such as increased productivity and higher levels of customer satisfaction.

Now you know why it matters, what can you do to prioritise mental health in the workplace. Here are a few suggestions: 

• Provide resources and support: Offer resources such as an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) that provides confidential counselling and support services for employees. Consider offering mental health first aid training to managers and supervisors so they can identify and support employees who may be struggling. 
• Foster an open and supportive workplace culture: Encourage open communication and create a safe space where employees feel comfortable discussing mental health concerns. Offer mental health days or flexible work arrangements to help employees manage stress and take care of their mental health. 
• Promote work-life balance: Encourage employees to take breaks and prioritize self-care. Consider offering flexible working hours or remote work options to help employees better manage their work-life balance. 

Mental Health Awareness Week is an excellent opportunity for recruiters to prioritise the mental health and wellness of their staff. By raising awareness about mental health issues and offering resources and support, recruiters can help to create a positive and supportive workplace culture that benefits everyone. Remember, a healthy and happy workforce is a more productive and engaged workforce.

If you're looking for additional resources to support employee well-being, be sure to check out the APSCo Embrace hub. APSCo Embrace provides a range of helpful resources and support services to help businesses navigate this important issue.