Economic instability is becoming widespread amid record inflation, and many Britons fear a recession. Recessions can cause redundancies and increases in unemployment overall. Furthermore, the uncertainty that a recession brings can have adverse effects on employees’ mental health and, consequently, organisations. Thus, it’s critical that employers prepare to help support their employees’ well-being during the current difficult economic climate. To that end, this article discusses ways to bolster employee mental well-being.
Impacts of Employee Mental Health
Employee mental health not only impacts individuals but can also significantly affect workplaces. Despite roughly 1 in 4 Britons experiencing a mental health problem each year, there is still much stigma associated with discussing such issues. In fact, nearly half (47%) of UK employees feel uncomfortable talking about mental health issues with their employer for fear it could affect their career, according to research by HR software company MHR.
If left unaddressed, poor mental health in employees can result in the following workplace consequences:
· Increased absence
· Reduced productivity
· Regular workplace tension and conflict
Experiencing these negative impacts during a recession could have devastating consequences for organisations. Therefore, it’s vital for workplaces to provide support to employees during an economic downturn.
Providing Support
There are many ways to support employee mental health during a recession. Consider the following tips:
· Provide mental health support through employee assistance programmes. Mental health assistance can include arranging occupational health assessments, accommodating scheduling flexibility and allowing access to free and confidential counselling services.
· Talk openly about mental health support in the workplace. Educating employees about mental health can go a long way to help destigmatise this sensitive subject.
· Provide stress management resources to employees. Stress contributes significantly to an employee’s mental health. Strategies to incorporate stress management techniques include encouraging a good work-life balance, teaching employees breathing techniques and having regular one-on-one meetings to see how individual employees are doing.
· Survey the needs of employees. Asking employees for suggestions to help improve their mental health in the workplace can focus well-being initiatives.
Summary
A recession not only affects financial well-being; it can also impact mental health. Employers should make an effort to help employees with their mental health, especially during a recession.
Contact us today for further information on supporting mental well-being in the workplace.
