Globally, depression and anxiety alone result in the loss of an estimated 12 billion working days each year, costing US$ 1 trillion in lost productivity. World Mental Health Day 2024 is a reminder for HR managers and Sto take stock of their organisations’ approaches to mental wellbeing. With an estimated 15% of working-age adults having a mental disorder in 2019, the issue is more pressing than ever. In Singapore, as in much of the region, mental health is now a key focus for companies looking to create healthier, more resilient workforces.
This guide provides insights into how companies can implement effective mental wellness initiatives while considering the scalable support of healthcare providers like Doctor Anywhere, who can tailor solutions to fit local and regional needs.
Why Employee Mental Wellbeing Matters
Employee mental health directly affects productivity, job satisfaction, and retention. For both large businesses and SMEs, addressing mental health can reduce absenteeism, boost morale, and increase engagement. In fast-paced environments like Singapore, mental health challenges such as stress and burnout are common, but with the right approach, organisations can foster a more resilient workforce.
Practical Ways to Support Employee Mental Health
1. Create a Supportive, Open Culture
Fostering an open culture around mental health is key to reducing stigma and creating a supportive workplace.Whether you’re an HR manager at a large company or a small business owner, building a culture where mental health is openly discussed helps employees feel safe and supported. Here are practical ways to make this happen:
- Create Safe Spaces for Conversations: Designate times or platforms (e.g., mental health check-ins, dedicated Slack channels) for employees to discuss mental wellbeing without fear of judgment.
- Run Mental Health Awareness Campaigns: Consider introducing mental health information sessions and workshops, by partnering with providers like Doctor Anywhere (DA), who offer workshops and wellness talks to educate employees on mental health, resilience, and stress management, helping normalise these topics.
2. Provide Easy Access to Mental Health Resources
Employees may hesitate to seek help if they don’t know where to turn. Make it easier by offering access to mental health services through both Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) and telemedicine.
Doctor Anywhere’s corporate solutions offer seamless access to EAPs through partnerships with insurers, alongside a telemedicine platform that allows employees to consult mental health professionals virtually. This flexible and confidential support ensures employees can access help at their convenience, whether they’re part of a large organisation or a smaller team. By integrating telemedicine with EAP services, DA provides a comprehensive and easily accessible mental health support system tailored to meet the diverse needs of today’s workforce.
3. Host Wellness Talks and Workshops
Educational workshops and wellness talks led by healthcare professionals can help normalise mental health discussions at work. You can organise sessions that give employees practical tools to manage stress and improve work-life balance with healthcare providers like DA. Whether you manage a large company or an SME, offering these resources shows your commitment to employee wellbeing. Learn more about the wellness talks and programs you can easily set up for your team.
4. Offer Flexible Working Arrangements
Giving employees the flexibility to manage their time can greatly improve mental health. Whether it’s flexible hours, hybrid work, or remote options, these arrangements allow employees to better balance work and personal responsibilities. DA supports this by offering a large panel clinic network, home-based care, and telemedicine services that employees can access from anywhere, ensuring they can take care of their health while maintaining their work schedules.
5. Promote Mental Health Days
Encouraging employees to take time off for mental health, without fear of stigma, is a simple but powerful way to show you prioritise wellbeing. For both SMEs and larger companies, promoting mental health days as part of your leave policy can prevent burnout and help employees recharge. DA can provide resources to guide employees in knowing when to step back and take time for their mental health.
6. Equip Managers and Leaders with Mental Health Awareness Training
Managers and leaders are often the first to notice when employees are struggling. Training them to recognise the signs of mental distress is essential. DA offers mental health awareness training that equips managers and business leaders to provide support and build a more empathetic workplace. For SMEs, where leaders are closely involved with their teams, this training can be especially impactful in creating a supportive culture.
Scaling Mental Health Support Across Your Organisation
When operating across Southeast Asia, it’s essential to adapt mental health strategies to suit different cultural contexts. While approaches may work well in Singapore, mental health awareness can vary across the region. Ensuring that your mental health programs are flexible yet consistent across borders is crucial for providing effective support to all employees.
Doctor Anywhere, with its regional expertise, can help organisations tailor their wellness solutions — including telemedicine, Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), workshops, and mental health training — based on local needs. This adaptability ensures that employees receive the support they need, no matter where they are based.
Investing in employee mental health is a long-term commitment to your organisation’s success. By reflecting on your current practices and incorporating adaptable wellness strategies, you can create a healthier, more resilient workforce. World Mental Health Day 2024 offers a valuable opportunity to take action and build a workplace where mental wellbeing is prioritised, helping your team thrive both locally and regionally.
Taking care of your employees’ mental health doesn’t have to be complicated. With support from partners like Doctor Anywhere, you can make a lasting positive impact on their wellbeing and create a work environment where everyone feels valued.
