The importance of mental health in the workplace cannot be overstated. A healthy work environment promotes productivity, creativity, and overall well-being. However, sadly, mental health issues are often overlooked or stigmatised, leaving employees feeling unsupported and vulnerable.
- At any one time, one in six people of the working age population of Britain experience symptoms associated with mental ill health.
- 50% of employees have experienced at least one characteristic of burn out due to greater job demands and expectations, lack of social interaction and lack of boundaries between work and home life.
- Almost half of workers (46%) say they’ve worked in recent months despite not feeling physically or mentally well enough to perform their duties.
Since the pandemic, MHFA have seen 81% of workplaces increase their focus on employee mental health. While this is great, evidence shows that 36% of companies take a more reactive approach to implementing support for their employees, rather than being proactive.
One way to address this issue is through Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training. Like physical first aid, MHFA equips individuals with the skills and knowledge to recognise and respond to mental health problems or crisis. This training not only helps individuals to provide immediate support for those in need, but it also helps to reduce stigma and promote a workplace culture that values mental health.
So, why does mental health first aid matter in the workplace?
- Early intervention – Mental health issues can be identified and addressed early on, preventing them from escalating into serious problems. Just as we are taught to administer basic first aid for physical injuries, MHFA trains individuals to recognise the signs and symptoms of common mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, or substance abuse. By intervening early, we can help someone seek appropriate treatment sooner.
- Reduced stigma – Stigma surrounding mental health is a major barrier to seeking help. MHFA training helps to reduce stigma by fostering a better understanding of mental health issues. When employees are knowledgeable about mental health and equipped to respond with empathy and support, the workplace becomes a safe space for open conversations about mental health challenges.
- Improved well-being and productivity – When employees feel supported and understood, they are more likely to experience improved well-being, job satisfaction, and productivity. MHFA training enables individuals to provide support to their colleagues in crisis and connect them with the necessary resources for ongoing support. This support can make a significant difference in someone’s recovery journey.
- Cost savings – Mental health problems can have a substantial impact on a business’s bottom line due to decreased productivity, increased absenteeism, and higher turnover rates. Investing in MHFA training can have a significant return on investment by reducing these costs. By having trained individuals within the workplace who can identify and respond to mental health crisis, businesses can minimise the impact and offer early intervention.
Implementing Mental Health First Aid in the workplace:
- Create a safe and supportive environment – Organisations should strive to create a stigma-free environment where mental health is prioritised, and employees feel comfortable seeking help.
- Provide MHFA training – Investing in MHFA training for employees is crucial.
- Foster supportive policies – Organisations should develop policies that support mental health, such as flexible working arrangements, access to counselling services, and mental health resource information.
- Promote mental health awareness – Regularly communicate and raise awareness about mental health topics through newsletters, workshops, or support groups. This helps to normalise conversations around mental health and encourage people to seek help when needed.
In conclusion, incorporating Mental Health First Aid in the workplace is a proactive step in promoting a mentally healthy and supportive environment. By training employees to recognise and respond to mental health issues, organisations can reduce stigma, support early intervention, and create a workplace culture that values the mental well-being of its employees. Â At VCare Training Solutions we believe it is time to prioritise mental health in the workplace, and MHFA is a powerful tool to help us achieve that.
Information sourced from MHFA England.