How can HR departments support employee well-being and mental health in the workplace

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How can HR departments support employee well-being and mental health in the workplace







Employee well-being and mental health are critical components of a healthy workplace culture. As such, HR departments have an essential role to play in supporting and promoting employee well-being and mental health (Bersin, 2021). In this report, we will discuss how HR departments can support employee well-being and mental health in the workplace.

Create a supportive workplace culture




HR departments should create a culture of openness and support where employees feel comfortable discussing their mental health concerns. They can also implement policies that promote work-life balance and encourage employees to take breaks and disconnect from work during non-working hours (Joo, 2021).

Provide access to mental health resources




HR departments can provide resources such as mental health first aid training, employee assistance programs, and access to confidential counseling services (Amabile, 2011). They can also provide information about mental health resources available in the community.

Offer training and development opportunities




 HR departments can offer training on stress management, resilience, and mindfulness to help employees cope with workplace stressors and improve their mental health (Barak, 2018). They can also encourage managers to provide regular feedback and recognition to employees to boost morale and motivation.

Foster social connection




HR departments can organize employee events and activities that promote social connection, such as team-building events, social outings, and volunteering opportunities (Bersin, 2021). They can also encourage employees to participate in wellness programs such as fitness classes and healthy eating initiatives.


 Ensure inclusivity




HR departments should ensure that their policies and practices are inclusive and sensitive to diverse employee needs (Amabile, 2011). This includes providing accommodations for employees with mental health conditions and addressing any biases or discrimination that may arise in the workplace. They can also ensure that their benefits packages include mental health benefits, such as access to counseling services and coverage for mental health medications.

By implementing these strategies, HR departments can create a healthy and supportive workplace culture that prioritizes employee well-being and mental health. This can benefit both employees and the organization by promoting productivity, reducing turnover, and enhancing overall job satisfaction.





Conclusion

In conclusion, promoting employee well-being and mental health should be a priority for HR departments. HR can support employee well-being and mental health by creating a safe and supportive workplace environment, promoting work-life balance, providing training and development opportunities, creating a culture of support and community, and ensuring that policies and practices are inclusive and sensitive to diverse employee needs. By prioritizing employee well-being and mental health, HR can create a healthy and productive workplace culture that benefits both employees and the organization.


References

Amabile, T. M. &. K. S. J., (2011). The progress principle: Using small wins to ignite joy, engagement, and creativity at work.. Harvard Business Review Press., 2(1),34-38.

Barak, M. E. M. &. L. A., (2018). Diversity programs: Does knowing what works make a difference. Journal of Organizational Behavior, 39(8), 1004-1018.

Bersin, J., (2021). The Big Reset Playbook: A guide for HR teams. 23-29.

Joo, B. K. M. G. N. &. Y. B., (2021). The effects of perceived organizational support on employee well-being: The mediating role of work-family conflict.. Journal of Business and Psychology, 23-28.

 Video -https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RL__-6ne6jk


Comments

  1. RUSHNI YUSUF17 April 2023 at 12:18

    It all depends on the organisations capacity and financial capabilities.as fund needs to be allocated separately for this method to be successful. It is costly and time consuming too.its subjected to debate. This benifits both parties end of the day. Very well written .good job

    ReplyDelete
  2. Lalindu Wijesinghe17 April 2023 at 13:20

    A well-functioning HR department will work closely with employees and management to identify and address issues related to employee well-being. This can include providing support for mental health and wellness programs, developing policies and procedures to prevent and address workplace harassment and discrimination, and ensuring that employees have access to adequate resources and support. Well done.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Saraj Kahingala22 April 2023 at 11:50

      Hi Lalidu , Agreed with you.
      By putting mental health first, a corporation may encourage support and loyalty from its workforce. HR can take the lead in promoting a better workplace by offering resources and information on mental health, promoting time off, and modifying work expectations.

      Delete
  3. M.Kamal Priyashantha18 April 2023 at 08:30

    Hi Saraj,
    Organizations that prioritize employee well-being and mental health in the workplace have several advantages, such as increased employee engagement and productivity, improved workplace culture, reduced absenteeism and presenteeism, attracted and retained top talent, and compliance with legal requirements. These benefits can lead to better performance, higher job satisfaction, and lower turnover rates. Additionally, organizations that prioritize employee well-being and mental health can create a positive workplace culture, reduce absenteeism and presenteeism, attract and retain top talent, and comply with legal requirements.

    Well done !!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Saraj Kahingala22 April 2023 at 12:29

      Hi Kamal , Agreed with you.By putting mental health first, a corporation may encourage support and loyalty from its workforce. HR can take the lead in promoting a better workplace by offering resources and information on mental health, promoting time off, and modifying work expectations.

      Delete
  4. Tharanga Jayasundara19 April 2023 at 17:02

    Good article !
    Stress can be reduced and productive workplaces that benefit both individuals and organizations can be created through promoting wellness. Employee engagement and organizational performance can both benefit from good health and wellness.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Saraj Kahingala22 April 2023 at 12:35

      Yes Tharanga , Getting employees to follow corporate policies and practices is the hardest job any HR professional has. By establishing appropriate rules and practices, a firm can better manage its workforce by reinforcing expectations for its personnel. Employees learn what behaviors, routines, and value systems are appropriate and inappropriate at work as a result.

      Delete
  5. Kosalee Sooriyaarachchi19 April 2023 at 20:04

    As well as attracting, and retaining employees with the company is also important.. If the employee is not satisfied with the company they may resign.. So as a department HR should concern about this..As you mentioned in the article, yes, creating a helpful organizational culture, concern about mental health is very useful. If employees are not physically and mentally well being it is affect to his or her performance..

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Saraj Kahingala22 April 2023 at 12:36

      Your comments are very important. Thanks Kosalee.

      Delete
  6. W.J. Chrishan Fernando.20 April 2023 at 23:01

    This is an informative and timely article that highlights the importance of employee well-being and mental health in the workplace, and how HR departments can play a critical role in promoting and supporting it. The article provides practical strategies that HR can implement, such as creating a supportive workplace culture, providing access to mental health resources, offering training and development opportunities, fostering social connections, and ensuring inclusivity. By prioritizing employee well-being and mental health, HR departments can create a healthier and more productive workplace culture that benefits both employees and the organization. Well done...!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Saraj Kahingala22 April 2023 at 12:03


      Yes Chrishan , By overseeing employee assistance programs, retirement planning, health insurance plans, and disability benefits, your HR department will likely aid staff members. These initiatives can aid staff in handling issues and stress outside of the office that might otherwise affect their productivity.

      Delete

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