Employers can play a crucial role in supporting their employees with mental illnesses by offering benefits and resources that make it easier for them to manage their conditions while still being productive members of your team.

Mental illness is something that many people struggle with, but it can be especially difficult at work. In fact, a survey by CV Library found that 89% of workers with mental health problems said that these affect their working life.

That said, stigma around mental health continues to exist largely because people don’t know what to say or do when faced with someone who has these struggles.

Employers can play a crucial role in supporting their employees with mental illnesses by offering benefits and resources that make it easier for them to manage their conditions while still being productive members of your team.

The stigma around mental illness, particularly in the workplace, is something that society continues to struggle with. Stigma exists largely because people don’t know what to say or do.

They’re afraid of what they don’t understand, and this can lead them to make assumptions about those who have been diagnosed with a mental illness. However, there are ways for employers and employees alike can help break down these barriers and improve understanding about mental health issues in the workplace.

1. Offer mental health benefits to your employees and encourage them to use them when necessary.

  • Mental health benefits can help with treatment and recovery. Some employers offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), which provide counselling services, life coaches, or other resources that support employees’ mental health.
  • Mental health benefits can help with the stigma of seeking help. Many people still think that seeking professional help for mental illness is a sign of weakness; however, offering these types of services sends a powerful message that it’s okay and even beneficial for employees with mental illness issues to seek treatment from professionals who specialise in these areas–not just their co-workers or family members who may not have the tools needed for dealing with such complex problems effectively on their own terms yet still want desperately see something change before things get worse than they already are!

2. Encourage employees to speak about their struggles without assuming all mental illnesses are the same.

It’s important for employers to encourage open discussion about mental health issues. This means that employees should feel comfortable talking about their struggles if they wish to do so, without fear of judgment or stigma from their colleagues and managers.

However, it’s equally important for employers not to assume all mental illnesses are the same or treatable in the same way; an employee who has been diagnosed with depression may be able to manage their symptoms through medication, therapy and lifestyle changes; however, another person might have bipolar disorder which requires medication but no treatment beyond this (or possibly hospitalisation). 

3. Discourage blame and instead educate yourself and your company on mental illness and how it can be managed.

The first step to supporting your employee is to understand the difference between mental illness and mental health. Mental health is defined as a state of psychological wellbeing, while mental illness is a medical condition that affects your brain, thinking and emotions.

Mental health disorders are often misunderstood by those who do not have them or live with someone who does. People with mental illnesses are often portrayed as dangerous and unpredictable in movies, TV shows and news media coverage–unfairly stigmatising an entire group of people who just want to live normal lives like everyone else.

4. Consider a flexible work schedule for employees who need this kind of support

Flexible work hours can be a huge benefit for employees with mental health conditions. For those who need to adjust their schedule and work from home, it’s important that employers offer flexible options in order to accommodate these needs. This can help reduce absenteeism, turnover, and improve morale among employees who struggle with mental health issues.

Employers can play a crucial role in supporting their employees with mental illnesses, which will result in happier, more productive workers overall.

Employers can play a crucial role in supporting their employees with mental illnesses, which will result in happier, more productive workers overall. Support for mental health is good for business and it’s important to note that employers are becoming increasingly aware of this fact. 

In fact, according to the latest report from Deloitte, it suggests employers see a return of £5.30 on average for every £1 invested in staff wellbeing, so it’s never been timelier to prioritise staff mental health.

Conclusion

It’s important to remember that mental illness is a real issue that affects millions of people every year. It can be difficult for employers to know how best to support their employees with mental illnesses and encourage them to speak up about their struggles.

However, by offering benefits like flexible work schedules or personal days, you are showing your employees that they have an advocate in their corner who cares about their wellbeing.