Why workplace mental health deserves everyday attention

Many of us spend a large part of our lives at work. That means work can affect how we feel, how we cope and how well we function each day.

The World Health Organization warns that by 2030, mental health strain will be the biggest crisis we will face. A lot of people already feel the impact. When mental health takes strain, it can affect concentration, energy, relationships and performance at work.

While it is becoming better understood that mental health is as important as physical health, there has been limited progress in solving the problem. Workplaces can play a positive role. With the right support, people can feel safer speaking up early and getting help sooner.

What the data tells us

The latest UK Healthiest Workplace data showed that:

• 54% of employed people feel stressed about work
• 80% have problems with sleep quality
• 6% live with depression
• 48% worry about money

What helps at work

The good news is that forward-thinking employers are starting to invest in everyday mental health support in the workplace. Mindfulness studies by Oxford University and the University of Surrey found that small spending (as little as R16) on health promotion can save around R800 by reducing costs linked to being off work, being at work but not coping well and hiring temporary staff.

These kinds of steps can help:

• More chances to be active during the week
• Mental wellness days (off work)
• Healthier screen habits and clearer boundaries after hours

Solutions are simple, says Dr Seape

South African psychiatrist Dr Sebolelo Seape says workplace mental health support makes very good business sense for companies. Poor mental health can lead to more time off work and lower productivity. Support can help people and the business.

She highlights a few practical focus areas.

"For starters, I would say South African companies should make mental health part of the conversation every day. The very first step is for companies to screen their employees in a friendly, kind way. One way a good manager can help is to have a high index of suspicion. When a close relative dies, when a house burns down, support the person before it becomes unhealthy," says Dr Seape. This helps people feel that it is normal to talk about how they are coping.

"Next, is communication. How do you inform employees that mental wellness is important? How does the company share information about its initiatives?" she asks. People need to know what support exists and how to use it. That includes knowing what the company offers and how to access it.

"Finally," says Seape, "employees need to feel seen. They must feel and know they can access help, that they are important. There are lots of studies that show how little managers know about mental health, let alone show understanding and give support."

Building support into your workplace

For employers, a clear mental health policy can guide consistent support across the business. It can include practical steps, such as:

• Offering mindfulness training
• Encouraging regular activity and creating healthy eating initiatives
• Creating an open environment where people can talk about mental health and mental health issues
• Provide relevant mental-health training for managers

How Flexicare can support your team

Flexicare offers mental wellbeing check-ins that help organisations stay connected to employees' needs in a structured, human way. Regular check-ins can create space for early conversations and timely support.

When companies build check-ins into day-to-day work, they help create a culture where employees feel seen and supported, while also supporting steady engagement and productivity.

To learn more about elevating employees' mental and physical health, visit the Flexicare website.