Recent years have shone a light on the importance of mental health awareness in the workplace. As a business, you have a responsibility towards your employees when it comes to health, safety and wellbeing. This responsibility is your “duty of care.”
What happens if you suspect an employee is struggling
If you suspect that an employee is struggling, it may be advisable to have a conversation with them so that you can find out what the problem is. You can then also understand how best you can help and support them whilst at work. It’s understandable that having to have such a conversation may be daunting. We recently wrote an article on having difficult discussions and how to approach them, which may prove a useful read.
Of course, ideally you want to try and prevent any issues from arising where possible. Encouraging good mental health awareness in the workplace is a good way to start. The ways you can do this are many and varied, although all centre around one main concept – ensuring you’ve cultivated an open and supportive work culture.
Approaching mental health in the workplace
The way you approach mental health can also be beneficial. You may want to treat such issues in the same manner as a physical ailment. This could mean taking a look at any adjustments that could be made to improve the working environment. You can also raise awareness of mental health via workshops, seminars or education.
If a member of staff divulges that they are suffering from a mental health condition, asking them what the business can to do support them will help them feel valued and aid in their recovery. You might want to refer them to your Employee Assistance Programme (if you have one). Other ideas may be to adapt their working schedule, look at alternative ways to get a task done or perhaps offer some time off to allow them to attend medical appointments.
Drawing the line
Finally, it’s not unreasonable as a manager or business owner to be clear as to where to draw the line when it comes to your responsibility when dealing with mental health. Offering support should always be the first port of call, yet recognising when a situation has gone outwith the scope of your responsibility is also important and part of your role within the business.
Here at AvloHR, we are here to help you talk through any staff concerns you have. Get in touch with us if you’d like to speak to us.
