Mental health is a critical concern of our day, and the triggers of unhealthy mindsets can come from any number of places—even the workplace. As our perception of what a job looks like continues to evolve, a fascinating question has emerged: what is the ideal workspace atmosphere for employees?
Everyone’s personal needs are different, but there are a few steps employers can take to create an optimal environment for staff productivity and mental wellness. It is important to remember that a happy employee is a productive one.
One of the most effective ways for employers to support well-being is to allow for flexible working hours and work arrangements. A flexible schedule can help ensure that employees have adequate personal time which helps reduce anxiety and lowers the risk of burnout. By providing employees with this type of schedule employers show that they are in tune with and value the needs of its staff.
On the technical side, making sure your workplace has the right infrastructure and assistance is key to the workplace being able to respond to employee requests. For instance, adequate office tech — from computers and printers to monitors and phones — is a must, as is reliable support for any issues that arise.
In addition to hardware and software, other support services, such as wellness programs, should be in place to help employees navigate life’s various ups and downs. From mental health services to therapy sessions, providing well-rounded resources can give employees peace of mind and encourage them to take time for personal reflection.
And while flexibility and infrastructure are important, perhaps the most vital aspect of any workplace is its people. Encourage a culture of respect and kindness, and recognize impromptu moments of connection. Create opportunities for people to share stories at work, whether it be in the lunchroom, on educational webinars, or in your team meetings.
These little steps can make a huge difference in how employees feel and prevent trivial matters from evolving into larger issues.
As Mental Health Awareness week draws near, it’s important to remember that the workplace should be a sanctuary of productivity, creativity, and relaxation – not a stressful environment. Establishing an environment of work flexibility, personal care resources, and an emphasis on a culture of inclusion will not only benefit the growth of the company, but it’s employees. After all, a healthy work culture ultimately leads to better results for everyone.