A growing focus on mental health in the corporate world stems from increased awareness around self-care and reduced stigma surrounding mental illness. Employees today are more empowered to prioritise their mental health, and many organisations are recognising that supporting wellbeing can positively impact job satisfaction, absenteeism rates, and overall performance.

Prioritising wellbeing in the corporate landscape

In recent years, a shift has begun to place employee wellbeing on par with traditional metrics like productivity and profit. Companies are beginning to include wellbeing within their mission statements and organisational goals, recognising that a healthy workforce can be a key factor in driving business success.

Mental health, once a largely private matter, is now widely recognised as essential to employee performance. Today’s workforce, especially Millennials and Gen Z, increasingly values mental health alongside physical health. The World Health Organisation (WHO) reports that mental health conditions like depression and anxiety cost the global economy $1 trillion annually in lost productivity, highlighting the need for workplaces to support mental wellbeing.

Creating a supportive culture through active listening

A supportive work environment begins with open communication and active listening. Companies that foster an environment where employees feel heard create a foundation for individual and collective wellbeing. By encouraging open channels for feedback and emphasising the importance of listening, organisations can nurture an atmosphere that values mental health and encourages collaboration.

Embedding mental health in workplace culture

Supporting mental health in the workplace requires embedding it into the organisational culture. A top-down approach can help ensure that employees feel understood and supported. Resources like mindfulness programs, employee assistance services, and wellness initiatives offer employees tools to manage stress and build resilience. This approach has the potential to enhance morale, engagement, and productivity.

A holistic approach: Physical, emotional, financial, and professional wellbeing

A comprehensive model for employee support can encompass four key pillars: physical, emotional, financial, and professional wellbeing. Physical health resources, such as accessible healthcare services and regular check-ups, support overall wellness. Emotional support through counselling and stress management tools helps employees navigate personal and professional challenges. Financial wellbeing, through guidance on topics like taxation and planning, can alleviate stress related to financial concerns. Professional development resources, including training and career support, enable growth and skill-building.

Companies implementing these pillars can foster a workplace culture that encourages employees to prioritise their wellbeing. Regular check-ins, employee surveys, and leadership engagement help assess the impact of these initiatives and guide ongoing improvements.

Building wellbeing into business success metrics

As workplaces evolve, mental health is increasingly being viewed as a critical factor in business success. Establishing dedicated budgets and tracking wellbeing progress through employee feedback can signal a serious commitment to mental health. The WHO also recommends initiatives like reasonable accommodations, return-to-work programs, and supported employment to create a holistic approach to wellbeing.

A focus on wellbeing can become a key differentiator for organisations. By fostering a culture that supports both mental and physical health, companies can attract and retain talent and enhance their capacity for innovation. A healthy and supported workforce is foundational to long-term business success.

As Audre Lorde put it, "Self-care is not self-indulgence; it is self-preservation." Investing in employee wellbeing is ultimately an investment in a more resilient and productive future for organisations and their peoplen statement? This refreshing shift acknowledges the integral role mental well-being plays in driving business success.