The employer is ultimately responsible for how mental health programs are rolled out to employees at all levels of an organization. Those in owner, board and executive roles shape these programs by approving them and allocating budget to them, setting the tone, and leading by example.
Recognizing and celebrating mental health initiatives
Employers can emphasize the importance of mental health by incorporating it into overall employee performance expectations. Deprioritizing overwork, addressing long hours, and making mental health initiatives a part of the regular work expectations sends the message that an employer prioritizes mental health.
Strategies could include:
- Establishing recognition programs or celebrating mental health-focused initiatives
- Highlighting individuals who demonstrate positive and supportive work environments or behaviours
- Engaging employees in mental health awareness days
- Conducting regular assessments and measuring changing needs based on employee input
The Role of Peer and Professional supports
Collaborative and supportive environments where colleagues have trust and confidence in one another can have a positive impact on overall mental wellbeing at work.
Strategies could include:
- Implementing buddy systems for new hires or transitions
- Ensuring teams are appropriately sized so managers have adequate time with their teams
- Celebrate wins regularly, and celebrate innovative or new ideas (even if they fail)
- Establish mechanisms for employees to share knowledge and information
- Give staff time to rest and reflect together on their accomplishments and milestones
It’s best if these approaches are holistic in nature (embedded across behaviour, habits, practices and policies), which requires ongoing assessment and adaptation pending the evolving needs of the workplace.
While employers might carry an increased responsibility to establish and provide adequate mental health programs, employees carry their own responsibilities to their mental health - meaning, the employee has the duty to inform, and advocate for themselves and request for help.
