Supporting Employees for Mental Health Action Day (2024)

by
George A.

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1. A Supportive Workplace Culture

Building a supportive workplace culture is essential to promoting the mental health of employees. On World Mental Health Action Day (2023), organizations can take steps to create a supportive environment that fosters mental well-being. 

This can include encouraging open communication between employees and management. By providing opportunities for employees to share their concerns and ideas about mental health in the workplace through regular check-ins or employee surveys we can achieve long-term mental health care in the office. These check-ins can be structured as one-on-one meetings or team discussions, depending on the company's size and the nature of its work.

Another great idea your company can consider is creating employee surveys or adding a  suggestion box in the office. This can allow employees to anonymously provide feedback on mental health issues. This empowers employees to share their ideas and concerns without fear of stigma or repercussions. The management should then review the feedback and incorporate it into actionable strategies.

Woman with ginger hair slumped on desk from mental fatigue
You’re not alone. With a supportive workplace culture, we can listen, learn, and share.

2. Provide wellness tools for every employee 

Creating a supportive workplace culture involves more than just fostering open communication—it's about building a space where employees feel valued, appreciated, and well-cared for. In this regard, custom merchandise, often referred to as "swag," can play a significant role. These personalized items serve as physical tokens of an organization's dedication to its employees' well-being, bridging the gap between the company and its team members.

From meticulously crafted Relaxation Kits to unique Modern Sprout Tiny Terracotta Grow Kits, a diverse range of custom swag can serve as tools to uplift employees' mental health. These items, handpicked and detailed in our listicle "10 Mental Health Awareness Day Ideas for Your Employees," can support your employees in their journey toward long-term mental health.
While Branded Kits might not directly affect an employee's mental health, they can contribute significantly to fostering a positive workplace culture. It's a fun way for your business to support your employees' well-being and work-life balance.

Image of a Branded Kit full of custom gifts for employees. The gifts visible are a black backpack, a red raincoat, and a stainless steel tumbler
Show that you care with Branded Kits - you can build your own kit here to get started.

3. Promote Work-Life Balance 

Promoting work-life balance is essential for employees' mental health and well-being. Work-life balance allows employees to take time off and recharge, reducing stress and improving their overall well-being. Overworking and burnout can lead to increased stress levels, which can contribute to mental health concerns such as anxiety and depression.

A healthy work-life balance can improve job satisfaction and motivation, leading to increased productivity and overall job performance. When employees feel supported and valued by their employer, they are more likely to be engaged in their work and committed to their organization's success.

Women reading and sharing ideas in an outside seating area
A long lunch break can do so much more good than keeping employees in a grey cubicle

4. Mental health education

Providing educational resources on mental health is a pivotal step in equipping employees to understand and manage mental health issues. Organizations can facilitate this by offering seminars, workshops, or online courses that delve into topics such as stress management, resilience, and mindfulness. Simultaneously, implementing comprehensive health insurance coverage that encapsulates mental health services, including therapy and counseling, is critical. Such provisions can significantly enhance employees' mental state, enabling them to better achieve their personal and professional aspirations.

Furthermore, organizations can leverage Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) as a valuable resource. EAPs offer a variety of services, ranging from confidential counseling and referrals to mental health professionals to comprehensive work-life solutions. Inviting mental health professionals to these platforms can equip employees with expert insights and practical coping mechanisms, further fostering a supportive workplace culture.

A photo of a band-aid being applied to someone’s elbow through professional care
The importance of professional care for mental health would be universally recognized if mental health concerns were as easily visible as physical injuries.

5. Flexible work arrangements

Promoting flexible work arrangements can significantly enhance employees' autonomy and job satisfaction, thereby boosting their mental health. These could include telecommuting, allowing employees to work from home, or flextime, granting employees the flexibility to adjust their work hours.

Implementing a "core hours" policy, where employees are required to be available during certain hours, and allowing flexibility for the rest of the day can be an effective strategy. A results-only work environment (ROWE), focusing on output rather than hours worked, can also be beneficial.

Alternatively, options like compressed work weeks or job sharing can be explored. These strategies not only reduce stress by minimizing commute time but also enhance productivity and engagement, demonstrating the organization's commitment to its employees' well-being.

A woman working remotely. She is working on her laptop, surrounded by green plants and natural light
The freedom to choose the right work environment is key to mental wellbeing 

One more thing

In conclusion, mental health is an essential aspect of overall well-being, and it's crucial that organizations prioritize and support their employees' mental health. Mental Health Action Day (2024) provides an opportunity for organizations to raise awareness, start conversations, and take action to support their employees' long-term mental health. 

In this blog, we discussed seven resources that organizations can offer to their employees, including employee assistance programs, mental health training, counseling services, flexible work arrangements, wellness programs, mindfulness practices, and employee swag. 

By providing these resources, organizations can create a supportive workplace culture that prioritizes employee well-being and fosters a positive work environment. It's essential for organizations to take action and support their employees' mental health not just on Mental Health Action Day but throughout the year. With these resources and ongoing efforts, organizations can create a culture of well-being and help employees thrive both in and outside of work. 

Who we are 

​​As a B Corp, DGW Branded takes pride in thinking beyond profit. Not only do we want to transform workplaces, campuses, and events, but we also want to create meaningful change in communities and be responsible for the planet. 

Thanks to our customers, we’ve been able to support sustainable and mission-minded businesses and provide a brighter future for disadvantaged members of our communities. Discover more about who we are and why we think business should work for everyone, in our about us

Mental health awareness month ideas 

Mental health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, and it’s essential for employers to recognize its importance in the workplace. 

Mental Health Action Day 2023 can be the catalyst we need to take action and support the mental health of our employees. This is vital because employees’ mental well-being can significantly impact their job satisfaction, and job performance, and help ensure they’re living fruitful and happy lives. 

Therefore, organizations must create an environment supporting employees' mental health and well-being. There are several ways that employers can help their employees with their mental health, ranging from creating a supportive workplace culture to providing resources and services that address mental health concerns. This article offers practical advice in these categories so your business can support your employees' mental well-being this Mental Health Action Day (2023).

A picture of a businesswoman in a green business suit jumping in celebration with confetti
Resources for mental health are invaluable for making every day spectacular

Discover sustainable, mission-minded branded merch with DGW Branded. As a certified B Corp, we offer quality branded swag for those seeking to align their brand with their values

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