Workplace stress is a real concern, which was exacerbated by the COVID pandemic. According to the American Institute of Stress, 83% of U.S. workers say they experience it, with a quarter saying their job is the top stressor in their lives and more than three-quarters reporting that it affects their personal relationships. Every day, about 1 million people are missing work due to stress – costing businesses more than $50 billion a year. Top reasons for tension and anxiety include heavy workloads, interpersonal issues with colleagues, work/life imbalance and concerns over job security.

Meanwhile, overall stress has increased since the pandemic – the American Psychological Association found that more than 60% of adults have been experiencing mental health struggles, less physical activity, fitful sleep and unhealthy coping mechanisms during a time of ongoing uncertainty.

But companies can also be part of the solution by offering resources, training and a safe working environment. Here are six suggestions for helping team members manage their mental wellbeing.

1

Determine what employees need.

Send out a survey asking employees how they’re feeling and what resources they’d like to have access to. Assure them that their responses will stay confidential, and follow through as much as possible – their answers may lead to a reconsideration of health benefits offered, education programs and new ways of working.

2

Get managers involved.

Managers are often on the frontlines when it comes to advocating for the mental health of their direct reports. Encourage them to be aware of staff who may be struggling and bring in experts if possible who can offer training on the signs of significant stress. Addressing concerns early on not only reduces absenteeism but can also help managers talk to staff and make adjustments as needed.

3

Create a safe environment.

A positive workplace not only reduces stress and anxiety, but also encourages staff to be more open and trusting with their struggles when they arise. The office should be in working order, staff should have the equipment required to do their jobs, and interaction among people should be pleasant and respectful. While the work itself can make big demands on people, the environment around them can do a lot to reduce anxiety and tension.

83% the percentage of U.S. workers who say they experience workplace stress.(The American Institute of Stress)

4

Re-evaluate health benefits.

If your company offers benefits, take another look at the mental health resources included. In addition to meeting minimum federal requirements for mental health services among insurers, consider an employee assistance program (EAP) for free assessments and counseling, and think about offering access to a remote therapy service like Talkspace or BetterHelp.

5

Encourage work/life separation.

Staying aware of staff’s stress levels can be especially difficult with hybrid or remote workforces. Host non-work-centered virtual happy hours, urge team members to keep regular work hours and to take regular breaks during the workday, and model openness about challenges everyone is experiencing – that can reassure people that it’s OK to be more vulnerable about their struggles and can reduce the stigma around mental health.

6

Take a look at DEI policies.

Create a culture that embraces diversity and inclusion – when team members feel respected and accepted by others, they’re more likely to voice their opinions, trust their colleagues and managers, and be more open about their work experience. An inclusive culture from top to bottom also encourages meaningful contributions and stronger engagement, which can help everyone be more resilient in challenging situations.