The importance of mental health at work

• Increased Productivity: Healthy and happy employees tend to be more productive. The absence of mental health problems and chronic stress allows employees to carry out their duties more effectively and efficiently. And that's what we all want: to be able to work in an environment that adds something to us every day.

• Reducing Absenteeism: Promoting mental health in the workplace can help reduce absenteeism. Employees who feel well physically and emotionally are less likely to miss work - and their motivation to perform is much higher.

• Attracting and Retaining Talent: Companies that invest in their employees' mental health are more attractive to talented jobseekers. In addition, satisfied employees are less likely to leave the company and more likely to continue their career where they are.

Strategies to Promote Mental Health at Work

• Health programmes: Many companies like Living Tours offer insurance and health programmes that include regular medical examinations, vaccinations, consultations with health professionals and access to gyms. This helps to identify health problems early and promote prevention. One of the great secrets of mental health lies precisely in prevention.

• Flexibility at work: Offering flexible working hours, hybrid or remote working options and leave for health reasons helps employees balance their personal and professional lives, reducing stress and exhaustion. If we manage to keep our lives properly balanced between our work and personal lives, we will certainly be happier.

• Psychological support: Stress and mental health problems are common in the workplace. Offering psychological support, such as counselling sessions, can be key to dealing with these issues. And even a friendly word at the right time can sometimes make a difference.

• Wellness programmes: Encouraging healthy lifestyle habits among employees is crucial. This can include exercise programmes, running groups, yoga classes, nutrition talks and more. By expanding our personal relationships, the work environment becomes even richer and more attractive.

• Positive Corporate Culture: Fostering a culture of support, respect and honest relationships is vital. Employees should feel comfortable reporting problems and receiving support from colleagues and leadership. Feeling this support is very important for doing well on a daily basis.

• Healthy Workspaces: Well-designed work environments with natural lighting, adequate ventilation and spaces to relax contribute to the well-being of employees. The environment in which we work makes all the difference to our daily performance.

Challenges and Barriers

Despite the obvious benefits, the implementation of mental health programmes at work faces significant challenges. Some of the common obstacles include:

• Limited budgets: Many companies operate with restricted financial resources, which can make it difficult to allocate funds to mental health programmes. However, it's important to recognise that investments in this area can reduce absenteeism and healthcare costs, and increase productivity. And everyone wins!

• Resistance to Change: Resistance to change is a common obstacle when introducing mental health programmes in the workplace. Some employees may fear that these initiatives will negatively affect their workload or privacy. It is crucial to clearly communicate the objectives and benefits of these programmes and involve employees in the implementation process in order to seek growth and learning. Because it all starts with small changes.

• Mental Health as a Stigma: There remains a stigma surrounding mental health, which suggests that psychological issues should be viewed differently from physical conditions. In the business environment, it is vital to recognise that each individual has their own struggles and that true strength lies in accepting diversity and providing support. It's crucial to remember that regardless of emotional struggles, everyone can be exactly who they are, and that's what truly matters in a healthy and productive business environment.

Although promoting mental health at work is fundamental, tackling these challenges requires planning, commitment, flexibility and motivation. Overcoming these barriers requires a strategic approach that recognises the organisation's specific obstacles and is willing to adapt programmes to meet employees' needs in order to promote a healthier, more productive and happier workplace!