Spotlight on Mental Health in the Workplace

As World Mental Health Day approaches, this year's theme, "It's Time to Prioritize Mental Health in the Workplace," feels particularly poignant. In our always-on work culture, maintaining mental well-being has become a necessity, not a luxury.

The American Psychological Association's 2023 Work in America Survey reveals a stark reality: while 92% of workers consider it important to work for an organization that values their emotional and psychological well-being, 77% reported experiencing work-related stress in the last month. More concerningly, 43% worried that disclosing a mental health condition to their employer could negatively impact their standing in the workplace.

These statistics underscore a critical disconnect between what employees need and what many workplaces currently offer. So, what are some small, practical steps to help us take charge of our mental health in the contemporary workplace?

Here are some practical strategies you can implement, regardless of your work environment:

Creating Mental Health Breaks in Your Workday

This simple yet effective breathing exercise can help calm your nervous system during stressful moments:

• Sit comfortably and close your eyes
• Inhale quietly through your nose for 4 seconds
• Hold your breath for 7 seconds
• Exhale completely through your mouth for 8 seconds
• Repeat this cycle 3-4 times
  
  

When you're stuck on a problem or feeling overwhelmed, take a short walk. Steve Jobs swore by this method, and modern neuroscience supports its effectiveness. A brief change of scenery can refresh your mind and boost creativity.

Combat the physical tension that often accompanies mental stress with simple exercises at your desk:

• Shoulder rolls: Roll your shoulders backwards and down 10 times
• Neck stretches: Gently tilt your head to each side, holding for 10 seconds
• Wrist flexes: Stretch your arms out and gently bend your wrists back and forth

Being mindful of your co-workers, incorporating certain scents in your daily routine can have a grounding effect:

• Keep a small bottle of a relaxing scented spray such as our Elixir of Dreams Pillow Mist at your desk. Take a moment to inhale the scent when you're feeling stressed
• Engage other senses with the 5-4-3-2-1 technique: Notice five things you can see, four you can touch, three you can hear, two you can smell, and one you can taste

• Maintain a consistent sleep schedule
• Exercise regularly like taking a 30-minute walk every day
• Engage in hobbies and activities outside of work
• Stay connected with friends and family
• Seek professional help when needed
• Create boundaries between work and personal life
• Educate yourself about mental health using reliable resources like The Mental Health Coalition 

How Employers Can Champion Mental Health

While individual efforts are crucial, workplaces play a vital role in supporting employee mental health. Elyse Cohen, executive vice president of social impact and inclusion at Rare Beauty, emphasizes the importance of mental health education in the workplace. "It means that you understand mental health, the signs and symptoms, how to interact with coworkers, how to create that culture and environment that we're talking about."

To achieve this, employers can:

1. Provide comprehensive mental health education for all employees, including recognizing signs of distress and how to offer support.
2. Equip leaders with specialized training to foster a mentally healthy work environment.
3. Offer clear, accessible information about mental health benefits and resources available to employees.
4. Implement flexible policies that acknowledge the importance of mental health, such as mental health days.
5. Encourage open dialogue about mental health to reduce stigma and create a supportive culture.

Beyond the Bottom Line and Prioritizing Mental Health

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) notes that "Reducing workplace stress benefits everyone across an organization. It can improve morale and lead to increased productivity and better focus, fewer workplace injuries, fewer sick days, and improved physical health (e.g., lower blood pressure, stronger immune system)."

It's worth noting that workplace culture plays a significant role in our mental health. As the mental health experts at Calm point out, "A toxic workplace culture characterized by high demands, low support, lack of appreciation, and poor communication can significantly increase stress levels. Conversely, a positive workplace culture that promotes respect, support, open communication, and recognizes employees' contributions can reduce stress and improve overall job satisfaction."

Remember, taking care of mental health isn't selfish, it's necessary. It's the solid foundation that allows for productivity, creativity, and resilience in the face of workplace challenges. This World Mental Health Day, let's commit to making mental well-being a priority at work. A mentally healthy workplace starts with mentally healthy individuals, supported by understanding and proactive employers.