The modern workplace has changed in a variety of ways, with technology, globalization, and flexible work arrangements being just a few of the key drivers. Though these changes have helped to drive efficiency and job satisfaction, they’ve also created an environment where mental health and wellness are increasingly important topics that need to be addressed.

As employers, it’s our responsibility to recognize and understand the everyday mental health challenges that can be encountered in the workplace. It’s critical that we ensure the wellbeing of our employees, as dissatisfied, unfulfilled, or overwhelmed employees can lead to issues such as absenteeism, burnout, lack of productivity, and more.

In order to build a successful and productive workplace, mental health needs to be taken into consideration. Some of the ways in which employers can help foster mental wellness among their employees include:

1. Promoting Open Dialogue: Employees should feel comfortable discussing their mental health with management and other coworkers. Organizations should provide designated spaces and resources where employees can safely talk about any mental health challenges they might be facing in and out of the office.

2. Offering Flexibility: Flexible work arrangements can be incredibly helpful for employees who are struggling with mental health issues. Employers should consider offering part-time hours, telecommuting, and other remote or flexible options.

3. Leveraging Technology: Leverage technology to minimize stress, reduce commuting time and increase collaboration between teams. By taking advantage of tools to manage tasks, set reminders, prioritize projects, and stay organized, which can help lessen the feeling of overwhelm and anxiety.

4. Providing Supportive Resources: It’s important to have therapy and counseling resources available to your employees. If your organization doesn’t have its own resources available, seek out community-based organizations that offer mental health services.

5. Establishing a Culture of Care: Develop a corporate culture where employees are encouraged to look out for one another, and to be understanding, supportive, and sensitive when issues arise. Scheduling team building activities that can promote comradery is also essential.

Mental wellbeing should never be dismissed as a secondary concern – it’s just as important as physical health, and just as essential for a successful business. By understanding the importance of mental health care, and fostering an atmosphere of open communication, flexibility, and support, employers can ensure that employees feel valued and supported in all aspects of their work. This, in turn, will help create a more productive and successful workplace.