" Since the pandemic began, Lola has had to work remotely. While she appreciates the chance to wake up later, she's still much stressed. Frequently, she works all through the day and even at night. Recently, she's been struggling to achieve even the most basic goals at work."
Mental health in the workplace has never been more important than it is now. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the world of work as we know it. Some employees had to go remote permanently, some work a hybrid shift (in office + remote), and others had to keep working through the pandemic.
All types of employees, even employers and entrepreneurs, have been affected by workplace changes in a variety of ways. With reports of COVID depression, anxiety, and more among the working population, it's obvious that mental health must be prioritized in the workplace.
Here are 5 ways to do that:
Reduce workload
Whether you an entrepreneur, employee, or employer, taking on too much work can cause severe stress and lead to burnout. Burnout occurs when you are physically and mentally exhausted, to the extent that you are unable to do your work properly. Burnout results in low productivity, a reduced need for achievement, anxiety, and feelings of guilt.
Curb burnout by cutting off excess work. If you are an employee, ask for help from colleagues, and tell your supervisor that your workload is weighing you down. Employers and entrepreneurs should also try to delegate and outsource work to reduce the workload on them.
Introduce mental health support
In the new world of work, it is essential that some form of mental health support is made available to employees. A good place to start is by making a psychologist or licensed mental health professional available to employees. Some firms and organizations in the US have also introduced wellness time off which allows employees to take time off to de-stress.
Build a meaningful connection with employees
Employees who only see the workplace as a place to earn money are likely to be less productive. Employers should take steps to ensure that employees can fulfill career goals, have opportunities for growth, and view the work environment positively.
Fun activities like games and retreats, taking their feedback and opinions into account, health benefits, and considerate supervisors can make a huge impact on employees' mental health.
Observe changes in behavior among staff
Behavioral changes are a key sign of mental distress. When an employee who's always eager to work and who is determined and productive suddenly changes his pace, it's essential that his direct supervisors do something about it.
Supervisors and managers should take note of negative changes in behavior, work attitude, and emotions and refer such employees to the counseling unit.
Emphasize a work-life boundary
In these days of remote work, many employees find themselves working overtime while working from home. Even in-office employees may work long overtime hours in a bid to meet goals and deadlines.
A boundary must be enforced between work and personal life to ensure that employees have time to de-stress, participate in their hobbies, and spend time with family and friends.
Conclusion
As an employee, employer, or entrepreneur, the need to push yourself to achieve company goals and grow career-wise can be very strong, but don't sacrifice your mental health for this.
Taking breaks and delegating does not mean you are weak or lazy. In fact, you will feel refreshed and more productive afterward.
