Much focus is placed on learning and development, occupational health and many other physical issues in the workplace, but mental wellness is also essential. Here we look at practical ways in which employers can support their staff by creating an open and nurturing environment, in addition to taking a look at how professional development courses can make you a better boss.
When an employee comes into work and doesn't perform to their best, what's the first thing that crosses the mind first? It should be that it's a potential red flag for mental unwellness, but sadly, this is not typically recognised. Your workers are people who have lives outside of work, so you don't know if they've just had bad news, have a failing marriage, or anything else.
While there's a lot more learning and development going on these days surrounding mental health in the workplace, people - and in particular, men - still tend to try and be stoic about their issues, with many citing that they "don't want to burden others" with their problems. The thing is, the interactions you have with them can either help or hinder them in this regard.
Man Up! There's No Need For It! Be a Man!
If you were to say something toxic like, "Come on, man up! There's no need for it. Be a man!" when someone cries, you're telling that person to stop being human. We're complex emotional beings, and when a person gets closer to a crisis, a lack of support can end up being the straw that broke the camel's back.
The fact is that as human beings, we tend to react to mental health problems rather than prevent them. If you felt a sharp pain down your left arm and pain in your shoulder, you'd call an ambulance. However, when it comes to mental issues, we're much more likely to react once the damage has occurred rather than attempt to stop it from happening.
Providing a Supportive, Nurturing Environment
The cues that one of your employees is experiencing mental health issues can be subtle. Still, when the culture in your workplace becomes nurturing and supportive, you give people a safe space and somewhere they can express themselves. Talking things through helps, and you get the opportunity to tell them that it's ok to be emotional. It's ok to cry.
You're not there to fix their problems but allow them time to talk. In a place with no judgment, no toxic advice, this kind of environment can literally be a lifesaver. If they require a break, do your utmost to give them time off and support them in any way you can, as you'll end up with a loyal employee who feels valued.
Internally, we can all tell ourselves that we don't want to tell anyone in our lives about our mental health struggles. Many of us still feel that we might lose our job or our friends when we open up in this way. The fact is that people's reactions are very often different from what the person disclosing their issues is expecting.
Let Learning & Development Help Your Business Growth
Businesses focusing on the mental wellbeing of their staff tend to be more successful. Their employees are more balanced, able to talk about their feelings, and are committed to achieving success for the company that supports them. Therefore, mental wellbeing shouldn't be ignored for a multitude of reasons.
If you'd like to know more about how you can use professional development courses to encourage organisational growth whilst supporting employees to be the best versions of themselves, call us today on 1300 611 404 and allow us to demonstrate how simple and effective online training can be?
Alternatively, to view our full range of video-based learning and development options, visit us at www.learninglounge.online. Once there, you can request a free info pack that contains our full training resource library, promotions, FAQ answers and more.