With many Australians spending a third of their adult lives at work1, it is unsurprising that our workplace and role can have a substantial impact on our wellbeing. From stress in the workplace and job satisfaction to balancing workloads and burnout, there are many ways that work can impact our mental health. A workplace that does not prioritise mental health – also known as a mentally unhealthy workplace – can also exacerbate existing mental health conditions.
As we get back into normal routines for the new year it can be easy to slip into old habits or experience new stresses upon returning to the workplace. The new year is a perfect time to implement new practices and policies to support wellbeing for individuals and the workplace as a whole. Digital mental health services can be a very useful tool, helping managers learn ways to support their employees and build a healthy workplace, or as a resource to recommend to employees or clients who may be at risk or struggling with their mental health in the workplace.
What is a mentally healthy workplace?
A mentally healthy workplace is an environment where employees are supported and feel good about coming to work. Mental health risks and stress are well managed in a mentally healthy workplace and people feel safe to talk about and seek support for mental health.
Creating a mentally healthy workplace has many benefits for individuals and the business such as;
- Greater employee job satisfaction.
- Improving productivity and engagement among workers.
- Contributing to a sense of overall wellbeing (in and out of the workplace).
- Improving commercial outcomes by increasing productivity, reducing absenteeism, and reducing worker compensation claims.
- Helping attract and retain staff through enhanced reputation and culture.
Services to help support employee wellbeing
Many workplaces now include a wellbeing manager, who is responsible for reducing mental health risks in the workplace and supporting employees’ wellbeing. The service below can help provide information, guidance and support for managing work-related stress and mental health in the workplace.
The services can be used by wellbeing coordinators as part of their mentally healthy workplace structure, or employees supporting their colleagues, as well as by employers, managers and leaders seeking to foster a positive mental health culture in the workplace.
Mental health professionals can also use these services in their work with clients who may be experiencing work-related mental health concerns, or struggling to manage their mental wellbeing with work.
HeadGear
https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/resources-support/digital-tools-apps/headgear/
Available on the App Store and Google Play
An easy to use smartphone app guiding users through a 30-day mental fitness challenge to build resilience and wellbeing.
Mindgauge
Available on the App Store and Google Play
An app that follows the user to easily and quickly measure and track their mental health, mood and lifestyle.
Smiling Mind
https://www.smilingmind.com.au/mindfulness-workplace
Available on the App Store and Google Play
A website and app teaching Mindfulness Meditation to young people and adults. Includes a range of mindfulness meditation programs specifically designed to be incorporated into the workday, as well as offering a structured program for businesses.
Ahead for Business
https://aheadforbusiness.org.au/
A digital hub to support small business mental health
Black Dog Institute Workplace Mental Health Toolkit
https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/education-services/workplaces/mental-health-toolkit/
A comprehensive online toolkit for creating a mentally healthy workplace.
Mindarma
An evidence-based e-learning program that protects mental health, builds resilience and equips workers with essential skills. There is a small fee to access Mindarma, with options available for individuals, small businesses, large organisations and educators.
WellMob
WellMon is an online library of culturally relevant social and emotional wellbeing resources for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Download our fact sheet on digital mental health for the workplace to find more free, reputable resources.
References
1 https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/people/people-and-communities/how-australians-use-their-time/latest-release
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