An outside-the-box approach to workplace wellness – Mental Health

What programs are set up in your company to help support mentle health and well being?

In her article 3 Hidden Mental Health Hurdles That Threaten Productivity and Profit, Leah Borski, Entrepreneur Leadership Network Writer, offers An outside-the-box approach to workplace wellness

Borski brings to light  “three issues hidden from mental health that are currently not diagnosable. The problem with this is that mental health services often require a DSM-5 recognized diagnosis in order to receive insurance payments.

1. Social media addiction

Borski quotes behavioral addiction specialist Hailey Shafir, LCMHCS, LPCS, LCAS, CCS “ These platforms are actually designed to be addictive in nature. Recent research has proven that getting ‘likes’ and comments on social media causes the release of dopamine, which is further proof of its addictive pull.”

2. Gray-area drinking

At least two of 11 criteria listed in the DSM-5 must be met for a diagnosis of “alcohol use disorder”. This particular mental health hurdle is a paradox. Yet stigma continues, rooted in the false belief that there are only two camps: diagnosable “alcoholics” in one and “normal drinkers” in the other.

3. Burnout

Shafi quotes a report from Mental Health America, “Mind the Workplace,” which states that “Most employees are experiencing the early signs of burnout” with nearly 83 percent of respondents agreeing with the statement, “I feel emotionally drained from my work.”

Cultivate mental wellbeing at work

#addressyourstress

Research has shown us that a workplace culture built around honesty and open communication helps to lessen the stigma of talking about all aspects of wellbeing. Each of us experiences stress differently in different situations. Stress can also affect you both emotionally and physically, and even affect the way you behave.

 “The most important thing is to not use workplace wellbeing techniques as a bandaid to cover up deeper issues” noted Shafi. Rather, she gives a few focus techniques to help leaders provide open discussion about mental health without judgment.

Here also are 10 practical ways to look after your mental health

1. Talk about how you are feelings
2. Keep Active as much as possible
3. Eat Well
4. Drink Sensibly
5. Keeping in touch
6. Ask for Help | Employee Assistance Program
7. It is okay to take a break
8. Do something you’re good at physical activity, being outdoors, aromatherapy, volunteering
9. Accept who you are
10. care about others

Suggestive hints for Leaders

Start raising awareness. Begin a conversation about mental health and wellbeing. Have outside resources to refer to. As alluded to by Borski, neglecting to talk about mental health is “a mistake that can cost you productivity, profit and a whole lot more”.

“Focus on emotionally intelligent leadership. When leaders and employees openly discuss mental health hurdles without judgment — and receive support to manage them — productivity, profit and people all thrive”.