Prioritizing Mental Health and Wellbeing in the Workplace: A Timely Reminder during Mental Health Awareness Week and World Meditation Day

As the world continues to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of mental health and wellbeing has never been more apparent. The pandemic has had a profound impact on the way we work, with many employees now working remotely and facing increased levels of stress and anxiety. As a result, it is more important than ever for employers to prioritize the mental health and wellbeing of their workforce.

May is an important month for mental health awareness, with both Mental Health Awareness Week and World Meditation Day taking place. These campaigns provide an excellent opportunity for employers to reflect on their approach to mental health and wellbeing in the workplace and to consider ways in which they can support their employees, and for the University of Bolton as important is its students.

However, mental health awareness goes beyond the COVID-19 pandemic and May. With there being a current skill shortage, it is having a damaging effect on those in need of support. Therefore, the University of Bolton has recently introduced a new BSc (Hons) Mental Health, Wellbeing and Counselling in aim of improving available support. The first year of this course is set to start in September 2023, meaning by 2026 there will be successful graduates ready to fill the skill gaps in the industry.

One way in which employers can support the mental health and wellbeing of their employees is by promoting open and honest conversations about mental health. Mental health stigma is still a significant issue in many workplaces, with employees often feeling too ashamed or embarrassed to talk about their mental health concerns. However, creating a culture of openness and understanding can go a long way in breaking down these barriers.

Employers can start by providing training and resources for managers and supervisors to help them recognize the signs of mental health issues in their employees and to feel comfortable having conversations about mental health. Additionally, employers can create safe spaces for employees to talk about their mental health concerns, such as employee resource groups or mental health ambassadors.

Another important way in which employers can support the mental health and wellbeing of their employees is by encouraging a healthy work-life balance. In today's fast-paced work environment, it can be easy for employees to become overwhelmed and burned out. However, by encouraging employees to take regular breaks, practice mindfulness, and engage in activities outside of work, employers can help promote a healthier work-life balance.

One effective way to encourage employees to take regular breaks and engage in self-care is through the practice of meditation. World Meditation Day, which takes place on May 21st, provides an excellent opportunity for employers to introduce meditation and mindfulness practices into the workplace.

Research has shown that regular meditation can have numerous benefits for mental health and wellbeing, including reducing stress and anxiety, improving focus and productivity, and promoting a sense of calm and relaxation. By providing employees with resources and support for meditation, such as meditation apps or guided meditation sessions, employers can help their employees build the resilience and coping skills they need to navigate challenging times at work.

Of course, promoting mental health and wellbeing in the workplace is not just the right thing to do – it also makes good business sense. A workforce that is mentally healthy and engaged is more productive, more creative, and more likely to stay with the company long-term. In fact, a recent study found that companies with comprehensive mental health programs see an average return on investment of £4 for every £1 invested.

To support the mental health and wellbeing of their workforce, employers can also consider offering mental health benefits such as counseling or therapy services, mental health days, and access to mental health resources such as Employee Assistance Programs.

Furthermore, the University of Bolton has introduced a new course, BSc (Hons) Mental Health, Wellbeing and Counselling, to produce highly skilled staff to support the focus on mental health & wellbeing for both business and healthcare suppliers. This is a great opportunity for both students and employers to develop a better understanding of mental health and wellbeing and to promote positive change in the workplace.

In conclusion, Mental Health Awareness Week and World Meditation Day provide a timely reminder of the importance of mental health and wellbeing in the workplace. By promoting open and honest conversations about mental health, encouraging a healthy work-life balance, and offering mental health benefits and resources, employers can help support the mental health and wellbeing of their workforce. Additionally, the new course introduced by the University of Bolton is an excellent opportunity for employers to invest in the development of highly skilled staff to support mental health and wellbeing in the workplace and beyond.

It is important to remember that mental health and wellbeing should be a priority not just during awareness campaigns, but throughout the year. Employers can play a crucial role in creating a supportive and understanding workplace culture that values the mental health and wellbeing of all employees.

The pandemic has highlighted the importance of mental health and wellbeing and has brought it to the forefront of many employers' minds. By prioritizing mental health and wellbeing in the workplace, employers can not only support their employees, but also create a healthier, more productive and more resilient workforce.

Let us take this opportunity to reflect on our approach to mental health and wellbeing in the workplace, and make a commitment to promoting positive change for the benefit of all. Together, we can create a brighter, healthier future for our employees and our workplaces.