It is Time to Prioritize Mental Health in the Workplace. It’s good advice and the 2024 theme for World Mental Health Day. Did you know that over 60% of the global population works in paid employment? People spend more hours each day at work than socializing with friends & family, enjoying leisure activities, or sleeping!
Mental health and work are closely linked.
The workplace can be a positive source of connection, purpose, and enjoyment. But, when it isn’t, the risk to our mental and physical health increases. The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety advises that anxiety, depression, substance abuse, changes in sleep patterns, muscle aches, and more can affect productivity and concentration at work.
Three best practices to adopt as positive mental health practices at work include:
- Acknowledging coworkers, and not just their work. Make it a practice to thank those coworkers, and, when possible, say it in person or through a handwritten note. Slowing down to walk to a colleague’s desk, or surprise them with a ‘smiley face’ note on their desk is a simple way to support everyone’s mental health.
- Streamlining email congestion by helping others know as much as possible about why they are getting something. Use the subject line strategically by including “Due end of day”, “Not urgent” or “FYI only” as healthy (and stress reducing) email etiquette practices.
- Adding statements like “My work hours may not be your work hours. Please don’t feel obligated to reply outside your normal schedule.” to email signatures. Research shows that sending emails outside of normal working hours causes increased stress for the recipient.
If work or life become unmanageable, reach out to a friend, family member, colleague, or a health professional for mental health support. Federated Health recommends the Institute for Advancements in Mental Health, to “provide care, help navigate the mental healthcare system, and develop solutions that will deliver positive change”. It’s a trusted partner and one of the 21 charities your Federated Health donations support. It is time to prioritize mental health in the workplace. Together, let’s make it a priority today and everyday!
