Why Mental Health is Important for the Productivity in the Workplace

Quixy Editorial Team

August 10, 2023

In the complex dance of workplace dynamics, mental health and productivity are inseparable partners. When individuals are riding the wave of positive mental well-being, they become unstoppable forces of engagement, laser-focused attention, and boundless creativity. On the flip side, when mental health takes a hit, motivation dwindles, concentration wavers, and absenteeism sneaks its way in with low productive outcomes. But fear not! By embracing mental health initiatives, organizations can unleash a transformative ripple effect. They can cultivate an environment that nourishes employee well-being, igniting a fiery cocktail of heightened productivity, unwavering job satisfaction, and unstoppable success—for both individuals and the entire organization. Get ready to witness the extraordinary power of mental well-being in action!

Mental Health and Productivity in Workplace

Employees are the lifeblood of any organization, serving as its most valuable resource. They are the driving force behind innovation, productivity, and success. The skills, knowledge, and dedication that employees bring to the table contribute directly to the growth and sustainability of a company. Their expertise and experience enable them to tackle challenges, find creative solutions, and adapt to changing market demands. Moreover, employees establish the culture and reputation of an organization through their interactions with customers, stakeholders, and each other. Recognizing the significance of employees and nurturing their potential through building supportive workplaces is essential for businesses to thrive in a competitive landscape.

In this article, we talk about the strong relationship between mental health and productivity. We’ll also help you with some tips and advice on how to improve your workplace. 

Let’s dive in!

Why should you be Focusing on the Mental Health of your Employees? 

First, let’s understand why you should be concerned about your employees’ mental health, and what it means for your organization. Here are a few statistics regarding mental health and productivity that we would like to bring to your attention: 

• According to a comprehensive study by Oxford University on happiness and productivity, workers are 13% more productive when happy.
• A survey revealed that 67% of professionals are experiencing stress at moderate to high levels and that almost 35% of employees report the stress they experience at the workplace has a negative impact on them.
• 1 in 3 employees still feel that mental health support in their workplace is inadequate and would like more support from their employers.
• Since the pandemic, 81% of workplaces have increased their focus on employee mental health.
• Mental health issues cost the global economy around $1 trillion every year.

As you can see, the importance of focusing on employee mental health is not just limited to their wellbeing. It has implications on your organization and its bottom line as well. 

The connection between mental health and productivity is undeniable. When employees struggle with mental health challenges, such as stress, anxiety, or burnout, their ability to concentrate, make decisions, and deliver high-quality work suffers. Conversely, promoting good mental health enhances cognitive functioning, creativity, and problem-solving skills. Employees who feel mentally well are more likely to be motivated, engaged, and productive, leading to improved overall performance for the organization.

Supporting employee mental health not only boosts productivity but also helps reduce absenteeism and presenteeism. When employees feel supported & have access to resources for managing their mental health, they are less likely to take unnecessary sick leaves due to stress-related issues. Furthermore, by addressing mental health concerns, organizations can alleviate the phenomenon of presenteeism, where employees show up for work physically but are not fully engaged or productive. By prioritizing mental health, employers can foster a culture that encourages employees to take the necessary time off when needed, resulting in a healthier and more productive workforce.

Also Read: Efficiency at Work: 8 Tips to Skyrocket Your Productivity

Now that we appreciate just how strongly mental health and productivity are linked, let’s get into some ways you can build a supportive workplace. 

7 Tips to Build A Supportive Workplace

Here are some basic steps that one can take to support employee mental wellbeing at their organization:

1. Promote Open Communication Channels

Establishing open and transparent communication channels is essential for creating a supportive workplace. Encourage employees to express their concerns, ideas, and feedback without fear of judgment. Implement regular check-ins, team meetings, or feedback sessions to provide a platform for open discussions. This fosters a sense of belonging, empowers employees to speak up about mental health challenges, and enables the organization to provide appropriate support.

2. Prioritize Employee Mental Health Programs

Invest in comprehensive mental health programs and initiatives to show a commitment to the well-being of your employees. Provide access to counseling services, mental health resources, and training on stress management and resilience. Encourage self-care practices by organizing wellness workshops or activities. By investing in employee mental health, you send a powerful message that their well-being matters and create an environment conducive to productivity.

3. Embrace Flexible Work Arrangements

Technology has revolutionized the way we work, allowing for greater flexibility and work-life balance. Encourage flexible work arrangements, such as remote work options or flexible schedules, to empower employees to manage their time effectively & reduce stress levels. Providing the freedom to work from anywhere and allowing for personalized schedules can significantly contribute to employee well-being and boost productivity.

Also Read: Top 20 No-Code Productivity Tools!

4. Implement Collaboration and Communication Tools

Effective communication & collaboration are essential for a supportive workplace. Implementing technology tools such as project management software, instant messaging platforms, and video conferencing solutions can streamline communication channels and facilitate teamwork. These tools, which also includes productive chrome extensions, enable employees to stay connected, share ideas, and collaborate seamlessly, regardless of their physical location. Improved communication enhances transparency, reduces misunderstandings, and cultivates a positive work environment.

5. Leverage Well-being Apps and Platforms

There is a wide range of digital applications and platforms designed to support mental health and well-being. Encourage employees to explore and utilize these resources, which can include meditation apps, stress management tools, and wellness platforms. These digital tools provide guidance, resources, and techniques to manage stress, improve sleep, enhance mindfulness, and promote overall mental well-being. By embracing these technologies, employers demonstrate a commitment to employee wellness and provide accessible resources to support mental health.

6. Automate Repetitive Tasks with Workflow Automation

Repetitive administrative tasks can be tedious and time-consuming, leading to increased stress levels and reduced productivity. Implement workflow automation tools to streamline and automate these tasks, helping employees to focus on more meaningful and strategic work. By reducing the burden of repetitive tasks, technology enables employees to allocate their time and energy to projects that require their expertise, creativity, and problem-solving skills.

Also Read: Best Productivity Tools to add more hours to your day!

7. Encourage Digital Detox and Boundaries

While technology can be beneficial, it is important to encourage employees to establish healthy boundaries and practice digital detox. Constant connectivity and information overload can lead to burnout and negatively impact mental well-being. Encourage employees to take regular breaks from screens, establish “unplugged” times, and promote a culture of work-life balance. Additionally, provide training and resources on mindful technology use, including strategies for managing email overload and setting priorities.

Conclusion

Step into a world where mental well-being takes center stage. In a time where mental health concerns loom large, organizations must rise to the challenge and prioritize their employees’ well-being to unlock untapped potential. By building supportive workplaces that tackle mental health head-on, employers witness a remarkable transformation—productivity soars, absenteeism dwindles, engagement skyrockets, and employee loyalty reaches new heights. With a strategic investment in mental health initiatives, organizations not only cultivate a healthier and happier workforce but also fortify their position for long-term triumph in a fiercely competitive business landscape. Get ready to embark on a journey where well-being is the driving force behind unprecedented success.