Small gestures can create big change in the workplace

We know that work can be hugely positive for mental health. It can provide a sense of purpose and identity, support social interaction, and of course provide financial stability. However, there are times when trying to make your workplace more mentally healthy can feel incredibly difficult. As anyone who has tried to effect large scale change can tell you, obtaining buy in, sign off, and budget can seem almost impossible, at least in the short-term.

Not all change needs to be huge, though. Small scale actions that make a difference to the mental health of your employees are perfectly possible, and can even bring big benefits to your business, like increased staff retention and a reduction in sickness and other absences. Here are a few suggestions.

Make space for your employees to share

Talking about your feelings can help maintain your mental health and deal with times when you feel troubled. Making space for employees to do so is vital to keeping your workforce happy and healthy.

It can be tough for people to share their feelings at work. But by reinforcing the idea that colleagues can make time in their day to speak to one another when going through difficulties, or by encouraging managers to ask how their direct reports are doing at supervision sessions,  can really help people feel safe opening up. Role modelling this as leaders and managers by sharing lived experience can be really beneficial

This can also be facilitated through mental health first aiders, who should be specifically trained in giving initial, non-judgmental support for any employee who’s struggling with their feelings or mental health.

Be understanding when employees need to slow down for their wellbeing

From time to time, employees will need to let you know they’re not feeling mentally their best. They might require some time off to rest and recuperate. When they do, try to be understanding, and encourage them to do what’s best for their mental health, as addressing issues early rather than pushing through is the best way to avoid longer periods of being unwell in the future. You could also consider adding mental health or wellbeing days to your leave provision.