Why you need to talk about mental health in the workplace
Mental health challenges are affecting more people than ever before. Studies show that one in five adults experience a diagnosable mental health condition in any given year — with more than half going untreated.
Supporting mental health can feel complex. Workplace culture, awareness and access to resources all play a role — and no organization is expected to solve everything on their own. By taking these small, intentional steps, you can lead conversations and break down stigma to create a safer, more supportive workplace for your employees. Wellmark offers tools and resources, like this employee conversation guide to help you get started.
The costs of sidelining mental health in the workplace
Across the world, it's estimated that mental health conditions like anxiety and depression result in 12 billion lost working days, which adds up to one trillion dollars per year in lost productivity.
Poor mental health and stress can negatively affect employee job performance and productivity, engagement with one’s work, communication with coworkers, physical health and daily functioning.
Given the soaring costs associated with mental health conditions and substance use disorders, as well as their negative impact on productivity, employers are under pressure to provide better whole-person care to their employees.
Get resources to support mental health at work
Not sure where to start when it comes to supporting mental health in the workplace? Explore employer-focused resources designed to help you lead conversations, reduce stigma and connect employees to support.
How employers can support mental health at work
When your employees are spending 40-plus hours at work, workplace culture and available resources can play an important role in mental well-being. Offering purposeful resources within your workplace ensures your employees feel supported while also meeting work expectations. Not only does talking about mental health in the workplace build empathy, it also ensures employees have access to care — which positively impacts costs and health outcomes.
1.
Start by increasing awareness about mental health topics.
You can provide education and resources from national organizations like the American Psychiatric Association, the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance, Mental Health America and the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Talking openly about mental health and sharing resources reduces stigma — a barrier to mental health care that many employees face.
2.
Offer training for all employees.
Regardless of an employee's status in the company, everyone should have access to training to properly cope with or help coworkers struggling with their mental health at work. Mental health first aid training equips your employees with the tools they need to respond during a mental health crisis, which can save lives.
3.
Encourage work-life balance.
Work-life balance looks different for every organization. Some organizations offer policies, programs or accommodations to help employees better manage stress and balance personal and professional responsibilities. These offerings can help prevent burnout and improve overall well-being.
4.
Provide an Employee Assistance Program.
Providing free and confidential Employee Assistance Program services is a meaningful way to support employees facing work-related or personal challenges.
5.
Consider employer consulting and well-being programs.
Well-being programs can help create an environment that promotes healthy behaviors (e.g., financial, social, career, community, emotional, and physical well-being).
6.
Invest in virtual care.
Virtual visits allow your employees to connect with licensed therapists, psychiatrists or certified coaches to cope with depression, relationship issues, workplace stress, trauma and loss, social anxiety or addiction — all from their mobile device or computer. Virtual care is a great option if you have employees with busy schedules or that live in areas with mental health provider shortages.
Start here to support mental health at work
Supporting mental health at work doesn’t require having all the answers. Many employers start by creating awareness, sharing trusted resources and helping employees understand where they can find support when they need it.
Employees with Wellmark health plans have access to mental health support, including screenings, care navigation and case management services. Understanding available options can help you guide conversations, reduce stigma and encourage employees to seek care sooner. Explore these employer mental health resources and find educational materials, conversation guides and tools you can use or share with employees.
Questions? Contact your authorized Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield account representative or email us at blueatwork@wellmark.com.