Mental health at work: what are we talking about?
Mental health at work refers to the psychological and emotional state of employees in the context of their work.
Stress, workload, exhaustion, work-life balance, conflicts... employees can face many difficulties at work. These difficulties impact their physical and mental health.
Moreover, according to the report "People at Work 2024: Workforce View Study,"61% of French workers experience stress at work at least once a week. This figure is down 10 points from last year. However, the number of employees suffering from high levels of daily stress is increasing. Women seem to be more affected than men, regardless of their age. In fact, they represent 23% of employees, compared to 15% of men. Precarious workers (temporary workers/interns) and older people are also more affected. 22% of people aged 45 to 54 admit to feeling stressed every day.
Mental health: a taboo that is gradually being lifted
However, attitudes toward mental health in the workplace are gradually changing. The importance of psychological well-being is increasingly being highlighted. The AESIO Foundation and IFOP are conducting a survey on the well-being of French people, which shows that 66% of respondents strongly agree with the idea that mental well-being is essential to good health. However, talking about it still seems difficult. Four out of five respondents admit that talking about psychological health in general is a sensitive subject, especially in a professional context.
On the corporate side, more and more companies are taking this issue into consideration. These organizations are taking steps to protect the well-being of their teams. However, nearly one-third of employees regret that their employer does not take any measures to promote their mental health. About half feel that their managers and colleagues are unable to address this issue without being judgmental.
Preserving psychological health means ensuring that workers operate in a healthy work environment. An environment where they can do their jobs without compromising their mental well-being.
It is essential that all teams are aware of well-being at work, as this is an important issue. Let's find out why this is important and how the company can take action by involving all stakeholders in the organization.
Mental health in the workplace: why raise awareness among teams?
Preventing discomfort, stress, and even burnout
In the long term, ongoing difficulties can lead to stress, anxiety, demotivation, a loss of meaning, or even isolation. This can even lead to the risk of depression or burnout. Prolonged exposure to intense stress can cause burnout, for example. Companies can prevent these situations by raising awareness among their teams about the warning signs.
Improve productivity and engagement
Employees who feel good about their work, but also feel listened to and supported, are more likely to be committed to their tasks. Good psychological health at work promotes concentration, creativity, and productivity among teams.
Limiting absenteeism
Stress, exhaustion, and conflicts are significant factors contributing to absenteeism. By taking preventive action against the risks of deteriorating working conditions, you are taking steps to reduce absences. This is especially important given that absenteeism impacts the company's productivity and work environment. As a result, the well-being of other employees may also be affected.
Create a healthy and inclusive work environment
Anyone can be affected by mental health issues at some point in their lives. Raising awareness about this topic helps to create a culture where everyone feels safe to talk about their difficulties. Employees will feel confident in asking for support, without fear of judgment or stigma.
Attracting and retaining talent
Workers are increasingly looking for companies that promote well-being in the workplace. They therefore perceive organizations that take the mental health of their teams into account as attractive employers.
Psychological health: what levers can be activated to raise awareness effectively?
Train managers and teams
Allowing teams to receive training on various aspects of well-being at work is a good starting point. You can offer your employees training courses on stress management, mental health first aid, prevention of psychosocial risks, harassment, communication, and more.
Learn more about training managers to support well-being at work
Establish a culture of listening and dialogue
It is essential to encourage open dialogue on the issue of mental health. This may involve organizing workshops to discuss the subject openly, but also promoting regular exchanges between managers and their teams. These exchanges can take place individually or collectively. They provide an opportunity to ask employees about their feelings and needs. They also provide an opportunity to receive feedback on the organization of work.
Implement concrete support measures
It is important to implement a clear policy for preserving well-being. This may include the option to work remotely and flexible working hours. In addition, providing access to psychological support services will help to preserve mental health. This could include access to a helpline. A psychologist can also be brought in to provide individual and group support to employees.
Setting an example as leaders and managers
To set an example, it is essential that managers and senior management actively promote psychological well-being. It is important that they play an active role in identifying problems, preventing them, and providing support. This involves protecting their own mental well-being, but also adopting healthy management practices. Examples include respecting work-life balance and encouraging recognition at work. It also involves destigmatizing mental health issues and getting involved in prevention initiatives.
It is important for companies to integrate psychological well-being at work into their culture. Preserving well-being at work concerns everyone in the company. By raising awareness among your teams, you are promoting a healthy and fulfilling work environment.
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