Mental health matters: Here’s why

As we elevate Mental Health Awareness during the month of May, we start to think more consciously about how we are treating our mind, body, and spirit. As leaders, it’s our duty to focus on ourselves as well as those we lead.

As we all know, the workplace continues to play a big role in employees’ mental health. The office setting and overall atmosphere can either build mental strength to inspire your employees or can take a serious toll on them and their overall well-being. In a recent Inc. article, author and writer Amy Morin explains why employers should care about mental health and how to turn Mental Health Awareness Month into an opportunity.

According to the article, “nearly 1 in 5 people experience a diagnosable mental health condition in any given year and many more individuals are at risk.” Most of these individuals, unfortunately, do not seek medical attention. In turn, according to the Center for Prevention and Health Services, an estimated 217 million days of work are lost each year due to issues related to mental illness and substance abuse.

Employers have good intentions in treating their employees – according to a survey in the article, Buck Consultants at Xerox found that “84 percent of employers believe they have a high responsibility to provide a working environment that promotes mental well-being.” But in general, people face major barriers to mental health treatment such as:

 

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