Mental health is something we all have. When our mental health is good, we have a sense of purpose, direction, motivation to do the things we want and need to do. We also have the emotional ability to deal with challenges. All of the aforementioned are needed to perform well at work. So, when we are struggling with our mental health our work could suffer. As a result, it’s important that employee mental health is prioritised in the workplace. And that employers keep an eye out on the signs that their employees may be struggling with their mental health and know how to support them.
Signs employees may be struggling with their mental health
Increased sickness / absenteeism
One of the biggest signs is increased sickness rates. This could be employees suddenly starting to call in sick at the last minute, leaving early or taking an increased number of sick days.
Not engaging with colleagues
A change in character or an employee isolating themselves from their colleagues are signs of low mood. Furthermore, a sudden behaviour change, withdrawal from work tasks and workplace discussions could be sign of mental health problems.
Unable to concentrate
Another sign of someone struggling with their mental health is a lack of concentration and easily getting distracted in work. Signs to look out for are, struggling to meet deadlines that the employee could normally meet and an inability to complete day-to-day tasks.
Decreased quality of work
A change in productivity, quality of work and making a lot of mistakes are signs that someone could be struggling with their mental health.
Change in appearance
Those struggling with their mental health may not take as much pride in their appearance. Look out for a change in how people dress for work.
Change in eating / sleeping patterns
No longer taking lunch breaks to eat and an increase in tiredness whilst at work are signs that employees could be struggling with their mental health. Another indicator of poor mental health is no longer making plans outside of work and wanting to stay in all the time.
Change in work patterns
Increased lateness to work or finishing early are signs that someone may be struggling. As well as an inability to manage time and staying late to complete work tasks.
What can employers do to support employees struggling with their mental health?
Wellness Action Plans
These are a simple, practical ways of helping to support mental health in the workplace. Mind have some templates that can be used to identify your employees’ mental health needs in the workplace. Additionally, they are useful for employees to identify any areas of improvements and any support systems that could be put in place to help mental health in the workplace.
Mental Health Days
These are an allocated number of days / hours off given to staff to take to support their mental health. For example, in emergencies outside of work which are affecting their mental health.
Encouraging talking
Use team building activities or days to encourage staff to connect and build strong relationships. We have a useful blog with ideas for team building activities and events.
In addition, create a fun break environment where people can connect and chat about things non-work related.
Safe places at work / chill out zones
These are dedicated areas where people can go to take time out whilst at work. Be creative with your staff rooms, or if you can, have an outdoor area for your staff.
Encouraging healthy eating
Put free fruit in central areas and have water machines for your staff to help themselves to.
Counselling Sessions
Offering funded counselling session is a real beneficial way to provide additional support to your employees with their mental health. Have a system in place where employees don’t have to disclose whether they have accessed the counselling sessions. If it is confidential and doesn’t go on their work record, people are more likely to access the sessions.
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