Creating an Employee Mental Health Plan | Foundations

A proactive employee mental health plan is a strategic business decision, not just a benefit. The World Health Organization estimates that 12 billion working days are lost every year to depression and anxiety, at a cost of US$ 1 trillion per year in lost productivity. Practical steps like open communication, flexible work, and real breaks protect both people and performance.

Key takeaways

• Depression and anxiety cost the global economy an estimated 12 billion lost working days every year, per the World Health Organization.
• WHO analysis estimates that every US$ 1 invested in scaling up treatment for depression and anxiety returns US$ 4 in better health and ability to work.
• Effective workplace strategies do not require extravagant budgets: communication, flexibility, and rest go a long way.
• Leadership sets the tone. When leaders normalize mental health conversations, employees actually use the support offered.

Why Does Mental Health Matter to Business Outcomes?

The importance of mental health and emotional well-being cannot be overstated in today's fast paced and ever demanding corporate world. A robust mental health strategy in the workplace is beneficial and essential for maintaining high productivity levels and fostering a positive work environment.

Mental health is a critical component of overall well-being and significantly influences how individuals perform in their professional roles. According to the World Health Organization, an estimated 12 billion working days are lost every year to depression and anxiety, at a cost of US$ 1 trillion per year in lost productivity. Common workplace risks to mental health include excessive workloads, job insecurity, unclear roles, and cultures that tolerate harassment or bullying. By creating a supportive environment that addresses these needs, businesses can thrive.

What Is the Financial Case for Investing in Mental Health?

The economic benefits of investing in mental health care are well documented. A WHO led analysis estimates that every US$ 1 invested in scaling up treatment for depression and anxiety returns US$ 4 in better health and ability to work. Flexible working arrangements, mental health days, and wellness programs are becoming standard practice in progressive organizations for exactly this reason: caring for people and protecting the bottom line are the same investment.

What Strategies Improve Mental Health in the Workplace?

Improving mental health in the workplace does not require extravagant measures. Here are several practical steps any business can take:

• Promote open communication: Encourage discussions about mental health to destigmatize these issues. Leaders can set the tone by sharing their experiences and struggles, thus normalizing the conversation.
• Cultivate gratitude: Implement practices encouraging employees to reflect on and share what they are thankful for, enhancing the overall workplace atmosphere.
• Offer flexible working conditions: Flexibility can significantly reduce stress and improve mental health. This includes options for telecommuting, flexible hours, and understanding personal commitments.
• Create relaxation zones: Designate areas in the office where employees can take mental breaks without screen time. These zones help in reducing burnout and improving mental clarity.
• Educate on sleep importance: Provide resources and workshops emphasizing the importance of good sleep, which is crucial for mental health and daily functioning.
• Encourage regular breaks: Promote taking breaks, especially for meals, to help employees disconnect and recharge, reducing the risk of stress and burnout.
• Integrate stress relief activities: Incorporate light activities like games or creative workshops to give employees a fun break from work pressures.

How Do You Put an Employee Mental Health Plan into Action?

Mental health is a journey, not a destination. When businesses invest in mental health, they not only enhance the well-being of their employees but also boost their bottom lines through increased productivity and reduced costs. The correlation between well cared for employees and business success is clear and compelling.

A well thought out mental health plan is not just an employee benefit; it is a strategic business decision. By prioritizing mental health, companies can foster a more productive, happier, and healthier workforce. For Northern Colorado employers, our corporate counseling services can be part of that plan, giving employees confidential support from licensed counselors.

If an employee is in crisis, immediate help is always available: call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, any time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does poor mental health cost a business?

The World Health Organization estimates that 12 billion working days are lost every year to depression and anxiety, at a cost of US$ 1 trillion per year in lost productivity. For individual businesses, that shows up as absenteeism, turnover, disengagement, and rising healthcare costs.

Do investments in employee mental health actually pay off?

Yes. A WHO led analysis estimates that every US$ 1 invested in scaling up treatment for depression and anxiety returns US$ 4 in better health and ability to work. Supportive workplaces also tend to see better retention and engagement, which compounds that return over time.

What are the first steps for a small business?

Start with what is free: normalize talking about mental health, model taking real breaks and vacations, offer flexibility where the work allows it, and make sure workloads and roles are clear. From there, consider adding confidential counseling support as a benefit employees can actually use.

How can Foundations Counseling help employers?

Our corporate counseling services give Northern Colorado employers a way to offer employees confidential, professional support from licensed counselors. We work with individuals on stress, burnout, anxiety, depression, and the life challenges that follow people to work, with a free consultation to get started.

Clinically reviewed by Chris Berger, M.A., LPC, NCC.

At Foundations, we are committed to supporting businesses in crafting effective mental health strategies. Book a free consultation to learn how we can help your organization thrive by putting mental health at the forefront of your business strategy.