5 Strategies for improving mental health at work

In recent years, there's been a growing awareness of mental health in the workplace. Yet, openly discussing mental health issues in the workplace remains a challenge. In this article, we provide practical tips for fostering a safer and more supportive work environment by gaining a better understanding of mental health and knowing how to effectively address it.

The current state of mental health in Japanese workplaces

Why do companies need to consider mental health in the workplace?

Five practical approaches to protect mental health in the workplace

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought to light heightened concerns about mental health in the workplace, with a notable increase in stress levels among workers. According to a 2023 survey by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, 82.2% of workers reported significant stress, a substantial rise from 53.3% in 2021. This underscores the urgency of addressing mental health issues in contemporary work settings.

Occupational health professionals have observed significant shifts before and after the pandemic. According to a survey conducted by Mental Health Technologies Co., Ltd., 63.2% of industrial physicians reported an increase in consultations compared to pre-pandemic levels.

Furthermore, the primary causes of mental health issues in the workplace include factors such as workload quantity and quality (63.4%), work failures and responsibility issues (35.9%), and interpersonal relationships, including instances of harassment (26.2%). These statistics underscore the severity of mental health challenges within Japanese workplaces and highlight the necessity for proactive interventions by companies.

The well-being of employees directly influences productivity, retention rates, and corporate reputation. With a heightened focus on mental health in recent years, companies can no longer afford to overlook this critical issue. There are several compelling reasons why companies must prioritize mental health in the workplace:

Productivity and performance: Employees' mental well-being directly correlates with their productivity and performance. By supporting mental health initiatives, companies can create an environment conducive to optimal performance.

Employee retention: Prioritizing mental health contributes to higher employee retention rates. When employees feel comfortable in their workplace environment and believe their health is being prioritized, they are more likely to stay with the company long-term. On the other hand, companies that ignore mental health issues face high turnover rates and challenges in recruitment, which can negatively impact business operations.

Corporate reputation and brand: Modern consumers are not only concerned about the quality of products and services but also value companies that demonstrate a commitment to ethical practices, including employee well-being. By prioritizing mental health, companies can enhance their reputation and brand value.

Next, let's discuss specific measures to protect mental health in the workplace effectively.

Conduct Regular Stress Checks: Schedule regular one-on-one meetings between managers and employees to discuss workload, concerns, and progress. This fosters open communication and provides an opportunity to address stressors.

Invest in Mental Health Resources: Provide access to counseling and support services, including Employee Assistance Programs (EAP), to ensure employees have access to the resources they need.

Provide Mental Health Training: Offer training sessions for managers and supervisors on recognizing signs of mental health issues and responding appropriately. Educate all employees on stress management techniques and resilience-building strategies.

Foster an Environment for Open Discussions: Encourage open dialogue about mental health through regular training and communication with supervisors and colleagues. Creating a supportive environment where employees feel comfortable discussing their concerns facilitates early intervention and support.

Recognize Successes and Achievements: Celebrate employee achievements to boost morale and motivation. Establishing a culture of recognition strengthens team cohesion and contributes to overall mental well-being.

Mental health is a crucial aspect of both individual well-being and organizational success. Prioritizing mental health in the workplace not only enhances employee satisfaction and productivity but also strengthens corporate reputation and brand. By implementing proactive measures to support mental well-being, companies can foster a healthier and more productive work environment.

For more insights on effective management practices, visit management tips.

You are exiting the Robert Half Japan site and will be redirected to the Robert Half USA site.

Continue

Robert Half Inc.

Australia - English

Belgium - English

Belgium - Nederlands

Belgium - Français

Brazil - Português

Canada - English

Canada - Français

Chile - Español

China - 中文

China - English

France - Français

Germany - Deutsch

Hong Kong, China - English

Ireland - English

Japan - English

Japan - 日本語

Luxembourg - English

Netherlands - English

Netherlands - Nederlands

New Zealand - English

Singapore - English

Switzerland - Deutsch

Switzerland - English

Switzerland - Français

United Arab Emirates - English

United Kingdom - English

United States - English