“Routine stress, including job strain and long working hours, may contribute to serious health problems, including elevated risk for heart disease and stroke and experiencing depression for the first time,” according to research published by the American Heart Association.
Constantly connected technologies, fast-paced and highly demanding projects and corporate culture in general can make the average workplace very exciting and also very challenging. Being challenged at work is part of what activates resilience as a skill, but it can sometimes be costly. Approximately two in three employees report that work is a significant source of stress. And stress can lead to depression and anxiety.
By taking steps to build a more resilient workforce, you can help your employees better manage their high-demanding jobs, stay balanced when faced with strong emotions and support each other in difficult times.
Use these tips to push your workplace away from routine stress and toward resiliency.
- Have an honest conversation with your employees to understand their challenges and needs.
- Develop a health and wellness committee that can focus on bringing wellness resources into the workplace.
- Review your company’s mental health resources for potential psychological safety practices, resources and tools to share with employees.
- Bring mental health experts into the workplace to host seminars on stress management, emotional intelligence and conflict resolution.
- Empower your employees to support one another in times of stress.
- Be a vocal and visible leader who makes the health and well-being of all employees a priority.
- Encourage philanthropy in and outside of the workplace, as giving to others can help improve mental health and employee morale.
- Provide management training to all supervisors so they can balance emotional support with demanding work pressures.
- Review your company’s progress annually and recognize areas for improvement.
- Get trained in Mental Health First Aid at Work so your employees can recognize the signs and symptoms of a mental illness or substance use among colleagues and respond appropriately. To learn more about MHFA at Work, visit MHFA.org/workplace and complete the inquiry form.
