Mental health awareness for managers – Four signs to watch out for
“Leaders and managers have to lead by example in approaching difficult conversations with compassion and openness. Simple things like leaving the office on time and taking a lunch break can send a powerful message to your staff about the importance of their wellbeing. Providing training on mental health awareness will make your people feel more confident around the subject and highlight the policies and mechanisms you have in place to support them.”
Mental health is something we all possess. When it is good, we have a sense of purpose and direction and feel that we can cope with whatever life (and work) throws at us. But just as our physical health fluctuates, so too our mental health goes through ups and downs. Raising awareness of potential mental health issues in the workplace is part of fostering an inclusive workplace, where people feel able to bring their whole selves to work.
If you’re a manager at work, here are some common signs that can surface in colleagues who are struggling with their mental health:
They may exhibit physical symptoms, such as tiredness due to sleep deprivation or persistent headaches.
They may be making more mistakes than normal, productivity drops off and they are having trouble with decision-making.
They may become more irritable or conversely complacent, and make reference to increased alcohol consumption.
Absence may increase or alternatively they start to work much longer hours, starting early or staying late.
Investing in corporate wellness does not just benefit employees but also employers. By receiving proper mental health care, productivity increases, absenteeism decreases, and total medical costs decrease. Having a healthy workforce that shows up to work in a good frame of mind, ready to work benefits everyone.
Whether you are struggling with depression and/or anxiety in your daily life or struggling with depression and/or anxiety at work, there are many resources out there.
References:
https://theewgroup.com/blog/mental-health-awareness-work/