Mental Health in the Workplace

Today’s work environment has changed significantly, primarily driven by technological advancements and work culture shifts. The demand for constant connectivity and continuous availability, combined with the usual job pressures, has increased employee stress and anxiety.

A recent Deloitte survey found that “ 63% of respondents had experienced at least one characteristic of burnout – a feeling of exhaustion, mental distance from their job, or a decline in performance at work” and that “35% of respondents expect (mental health) support for themselves and their children / immediate family (for example by providing an employee support line, childcare support, or flexible working arrangements)”.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the abrupt shift to remote work offered employees more time at home and reduced commuting, yet also introduced unique stressors. As workplaces reopened, many individuals reassessed their work-life balance and started prioritising mental health, seeking job opportunities that offered robust support systems, less stress, and manageable workloads. According to a 2023 report from the American Psychological Association, nearly a quarter of adults (24%) rated their average stress between eight and ten on a scale of one to 10, where one means little to no stress and 10 means a great deal of stress. This is up from 19% in 2019, before the pandemic.

The societal focus on mental health has naturally permeated the workplace environment, and there is a growing recognition of the importance of mental well-being. Younger generations seek companies with supportive workplace policies addressing mental health. The stigma traditionally associated with mental health issues has not diminished, but with increased discussion around mental health, this will hopefully empower employees in the future to seek help without the fear of judgment.

Executives who have faced mental health challenges are purposefully advocating for increased mental wellness initiatives, recognising the profound effect that emotional support can have on personal productivity and, thereby, overall company success. This shift is supported by evolving legal and ethical standards that hold companies accountable for providing mentally healthy workplaces. In South Africa, the Occupational Health and Safety Act of 1993 (“OHSA”) applies, requiring companies to consider not only the physical safety of employees but also their mental health.

To foster mental health resilience, employers should consider actionable steps:

1. Clear Role Definition
   Clearly defining roles and responsibilities can alleviate confusion and reduce stress, leading to more efficient time management and improved performance outcomes.
2. Flexible Work Hours
   Implementing flexible scheduling allows employees to work during peak productivity times, supporting a healthier balance between work and personal life.
3. Access to Resources
   Providing access to mental health resources, such as counselling services and wellness programs, encourages employees to manage their mental health proactively.
4. Creating Safe Spaces
   Encouraging open conversations about mental health helps create a supportive environment where employees feel safe to share their concerns and seek assistance.
5. Regular Check-Ins
   Regular one-on-one meetings allow managers to gauge employee well-being and address any stressors before they escalate.
6. Mental Health Training
   Training programs focusing on stress management, resilience, and workplace mental health can empower employees with the tools they need to thrive.
7. Coaching
   Performance coaching offers executives a sounding board for difficult decisions and reduces stress by teaching employees ways to manage their workload and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Building mental health resilience is not just a response to current workplace challenges but an investment in a healthier, more productive future for employees and organisations. By taking these steps, companies demonstrate a genuine commitment to the well-being of their workforce, fostering a positive and thriving work environment.

Sources

1. Mental health and employers. 2024 Deloitte. The case for employers to invest in supporting working parents and a mentally health workplace.
2. Stress in America™ 2023: A nation grappling with psychological impacts of collective trauma – a nationwide survey conducted by The Harris Poll on behalf of APA among more than 3,000 U.S. adults age 18+. American Psychological Association.