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How to be mentally healthy every day

A mentally healthy workplace benefits everyone, from employees to leaders.

It fosters productivity, creativity, and a sense of wellbeing. But what does it mean to be mentally healthy every day, and how can we achieve this in the workplace?

Below we explore the concept of mental health, provide practical examples of how employees and leaders can nurture their mental wellbeing daily, and offer actionable steps for leaders to support their teams.

What is mental health?

Mental health refers to our emotional, psychological, and social wellbeing. It affects how we think, feel, and act.

In the workplace, good mental health helps us manage stress, work productively, and contribute positively to our team.

It’s about more than just the absence of mental illness – it’s about thriving in our environment, feeling capable, valued, and supported.

A shared responsibility

Mental health in the workplace isn’t something that can be achieved overnight or solely by one person.

It’s a shared responsibility between employees and leaders, with each playing a crucial role in creating a mentally healthy workplace.

For employees

Being mentally healthy as an employee involves self-awareness, resilience, and proactive self-care.

Here are some ways employees can maintain their mental wellbeing daily:

  1. Practise mindfulness: Taking a few minutes each day to focus on the present moment can reduce stress and improve concentration. This could be as simple as deep breathing exercises or a short walk outside.
  2. Set boundaries: It’s important to have clear boundaries between work and personal life. This could mean not checking emails after a certain time or ensuring you take your lunch break away from your desk.
  3. Ask for help: Don’t hesitate to use Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) or talk to a trusted colleague if you’re feeling overwhelmed. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
  4. Stay connected: Social connections at work can boost your mood and reduce feelings of isolation. Whether it’s a quick chat with a colleague or a virtual coffee break, staying connected is vital.
  5. Focus on growth: Engage in continuous learning and development. Whether it’s a new skill related to your job or a personal hobby, growth can boost your confidence and mental wellbeing.

For leaders

Leaders play a critical role in setting the tone for a mentally healthy workplace.

Their actions and attitudes can significantly influence their team’s mental wellbeing.

Here’s how leaders can contribute to a mentally healthy environment:

  1. Lead by example: Demonstrate healthy behaviours such as taking breaks, managing stress, and seeking support when needed. When employees see leaders prioritising mental health, they’re more likely to do the same.
  2. Foster open communication: Encourage open dialogue about mental health. This could be through regular check-ins, creating safe spaces for discussion, or simply being approachable and empathetic.
  3. Provide resources: Ensure that employees are aware of and have access to mental health resources, including EAPs. Regularly remind them of these services and encourage their use.
  4. Recognise and reward efforts: Acknowledge employees’ hard work and contributions. Recognition can go a long way in boosting morale and mental wellbeing.
  5. Promote work-life balance: Encourage employees to take breaks, use their vacation time, and set boundaries between work and personal life. A healthy work-life balance is essential for long-term mental health.

Daily actions for a mentally healthy workplace

Creating a mentally healthy workplace requires ongoing effort.

Here are some daily actions that both employees and leaders can take:

1. Start the day with a positive routine

Whether it’s a few minutes of meditation, a morning walk, or simply a quiet cup of coffee, starting the day with a positive routine can set the tone for the rest of the day.

2. Check-in regularly

Regular check-ins, whether with yourself or with your team, can help identify any stressors early on and address them before they escalate.

3. Practise gratitude

Taking a moment to appreciate the positives in your day can improve your mood and outlook.

For leaders, this could also mean expressing gratitude to your team for their efforts.

4. Stay active

Physical activity is closely linked to mental wellbeing.

Encourage short breaks for physical movement, whether it’s a walk around the block or stretching exercises at your desk.

5. Reflect and adjust

At the end of the day, take a moment to reflect on what went well and what could be improved.

This habit of self-reflection can help you make small adjustments for a better tomorrow.

Supporting mental health through EAPs

Research shows that EAPs can significantly improve employees’ mental health, leading to increased productivity, reduced absenteeism, and higher job satisfaction.

A study by the Employee Assistance Professionals Association found that 86% of EAP users reported improved mental health, and 77% saw improvements in their work performance.

Here’s how EAPs can support daily mental health:

  1. Confidential counselling: Employees can access professional support for various issues, from stress and anxiety to personal relationships. this support can prevent issues from escalating and help employees manage their mental health daily.
  2. Work-life support: Many EAPs offer resources to help employees manage work-life balance, such as legal advice, financial counselling, and childcare support. These services can reduce stress and improve overall wellbeing.
  3. Crisis intervention: EAPs often provide immediate support during a crisis, helping employees navigate challenging times without the added stress of finding resources on their own.
  4. Wellness resources: EAPs offer various wellness resources, including workshops, online courses, and self-assessment tools, empowering employees to take control of their mental health.

Actions for leaders

Leaders can enhance the effectiveness of EAPs by taking the following actions:

  1. Promote EAP usage: Regularly remind employees of the EAP services available to them. Encourage them to use these resources before small issues become significant problems.
  2. Integrate EAPs into the culture: Make EAPs a natural part of your workplace culture by integrating discussions about them into regular meetings, training sessions, and communications.
  3. Provide training: Equip managers with the training to recognise signs of mental distress and guide employees toward appropriate resources, including EAPs.
  4. Lead with compassion: Approach mental health with compassion and understanding. Encourage a culture where employees feel safe seeking help without fear of judgement or repercussions.
  5. Review and improve: Regularly review the effectiveness of your EAP offerings and gather employee feedback. Use this information to make improvements and ensure that the program meets your team’s needs.

Everyone needs support

Being mentally healthy every day is a journey that requires effort, awareness, and support from both employees and leaders.

By practising mindfulness, setting boundaries, staying connected, and making use of resources like EAPs, everyone can contribute to a mentally healthy workplace.

Leaders, in particular, have a significant role in fostering an environment where mental wellbeing is prioritised and supported.

With the right actions, tools, and mindset, a mentally healthy workplace can become a reality, benefiting everyone involved.

To ensure your business doesn’t miss any opportunities to support employee wellbeing, explore Assure’s services.

Our comprehensive employee support program will give your team members staff access to specialist guidance, information and advice for positive mental health and wellbeing.

Learn more at assureprograms.com.au or reach out at 1800 808 374.

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