Mental health and well-being in the workplace are of utmost importance as they impact individual and organisational success.
When an organisation acknowledges and addresses an employee’s mental health needs, it improves their overall well-being, reduces stress, increases job satisfaction, and enhances their work-life balance. Additionally, fostering a workplace culture that creates a positive and inclusive environment leads to higher employee engagement and better retention rates.
But why shift the focus from the trending subjects in the corporate sector and focus more on mental well-being? Well, here are some reasons why it is important to foster a workplace that prioritizes mental health and creates future-ready MSMEs.
The human capital advantage
One of the greatest assets of a company is ‘Its People.’ Without their efforts, achieving organizational success will become a far-fetched dream. So, to look after the workforce, you must heed their critical needs. Whether an employee suffers from mental health issues, an employer must care for their well-being.
Despite advancements in organisations, the stigma associated with mental health is still a major challenge for many. Realising that employees are an important asset to any organisation is the first step in building a resilient workforce. Thus, a reorientation in addressing mental health issues is much needed. In this regard, MSMEs must demonstrate a commitment to nurturing their employees’ well-being, fostering loyalty, and creating a positive work environment by prioritising mental health support.
Such investment in human capital pays off by increasing productivity, reducing turnover, and attracting top talent. Organizations prioritising mental health support and wellness are often seen as progressive and compassionate towards their workforce. MSMEs enhance their reputation as an employer of choice by taking a proactive stance on employee well-being. A positive employer brand attracts top talent and fosters stronger relationships with customers, partners, and stakeholders who appreciate the organisation’s commitment to holistic employee care.
The high cost of neglect
A workplace that fails to address mental health issues suffers greatly. This affects not only the employees but also the organisation at large. But how? Think of it this way. If one does not cater to the mental needs of their employees, they will ultimately leave the organisation. This can cause the company huge losses in terms of both revenue and talent acquisition. So, it is important to search for the right candidate and invest in their training and development, as this will increase the operational cost and hamper the budgeting process. When employees feel valued and supported in their mental well-being, they are more likely to stay committed to their organisation. This leads to higher employee retention rates, saving the MSMEs the time and resources associated with recruiting and training new talent.
In many cases, it has become evident that many employees frequently experience stress, anxiety, and burnout, especially in high-pressure environments. Thus, it is important for MSMEs not to undermine these issues as it may risk reduced productivity, increased absenteeism, and decreased employee engagement. By proactively supporting mental health, MSMEs can minimise these risks and ensure a healthier and more motivated workforce.
Promoting work-life integration
The boundaries between work and personal life have become very porous in today’s digital age. If you start acknowledging this reality and develop steps to promote work-life integration, it will empower the workforce and provide a healthy balance between the two. With the pandemic, remote work has become the new normal. Since then, it started becoming more and more difficult to separate work from personal life.
One can achieve this by providing flexible work arrangements and encouraging employees to take breaks between work, thus fostering a culture that values self-care.
Fostering innovation and creativity
Mental well-being is closely linked to creativity, problem-solving, and innovation. A positive and healthy mind will allow an employee to think creatively and easily adapt to challenges. MSMEs must create an environment in the workplace where mental health is prioritised and employees are motivated, supported, and inspired to contribute their best ideas.
Resilience in the face of uncertainty
When we talk about future-ready MSMEs, we must understand the need for the preparedness of these MSMEs to navigate challenges and adapt quickly in today’s fast-paced business landscape. When employees are provided with the proper tools and support to cope with stress, change, and uncertainty, they are better equipped to handle setbacks and emerge stronger. This leads to greater organisational agility and the ability to seize new opportunities.
Leading by example
Leaders that prioritise mental health support set a powerful example for their teams. This creates a safe and supportive environment to realise their goals and seek comfort in discussing their issues. This sense of community strengthens teamwork, helps break down the stigma associated with mental health, and encourages open dialogue, thus leading to well-being and stronger team dynamics.
Now, how can one attain a healthy state of mind and well-being in a workplace? Keeping in mind the perspective of forward-thinking MSMEs, there are several innovative approaches through which one can achieve this objective.
First, MSMEs can consider implementing flexible work arrangements to improve work-life balance and alleviate employee stress. Secondly, fostering a positive work environment promotes open communication, collaboration, and mutual support. It also helps create a conducive atmosphere where employees feel valued and supported.
Thirdly, organisations must have a practice to establish comprehensive mental health programs encompassing awareness campaigns and workshops, offering employee assistance programs with confidential counseling services for various issues. Physical activities such as fitness challenges or incorporating exercise breaks during work hours also help employees cope effectively with work-related stress. Meditation and mindfulness practices within the workplace have proven to reduce stress and improve focus.
Lastly, it is always important to recognise and reward employees through a structured rewards system that reinforces the organisation’s commitment to mental health support. Therefore, by incorporating these strategies, MSMEs can proactively cultivate a resilient and future-ready workforce that flourishes within a supportive and mentally healthy work environment.
To thrive in the future, MSMEs must embrace prioritising mental health support and wellness initiatives to distinguish themselves as forward-thinking organisations that understand the intrinsic value of their employees. By investing in the employee’s well-being today, the MSMEs are laying the foundation for a prosperous future by building a resilient workforce capable of thriving in an ever-changing business landscape.
The author is CEO & Co-Founder, Vantage Circle.
