The Importance of Mental Health Training in the Workplace: Why Every Company Should Invest

Mental health is a crucial aspect of our overall wellbeing. It impacts our emotions, thoughts, and behaviours, and can affect how we function in our daily lives. Mental health concerns are prevalent in the workplace, and they can significantly impact employees' productivity, engagement, and overall job satisfaction. As we move into 2024, to support employees and work towards reducing stigma, companies should invest in mental health training for their employees. This blog post will explore the importance of mental health training in the workplace and why every company should invest in it.

What is Mental Health Training?

Mental health training involves educating employees about various mental health concerns and how to recognise and respond to them. It typically covers topics such as stress management, anxiety, depression, addiction, and suicide prevention. Mental health training can be delivered through various methods, including in-person workshops, online courses, or employee assistance programs. Wellbeing Campus provides a variety of mental health-related workshops from 2-hour awareness sessions - 12-hour Mental Health First aid Course.

Why is Mental Health Training Important?

1.Improved Employee Well-being

Mental health training can help employees manage their emotions, cope with stress, and develop healthy coping mechanisms. This can lead to improved overall well-being, which can, in turn, enhance their productivity and job satisfaction. Employees who are struggling with mental health concerns are more likely to take time off work or be less engaged, leading to decreased productivity and increased costs for the company.

2. Reduced Stigma

Mental health training can help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health concerns. It can help employees feel more comfortable seeking help when they need it and can foster a supportive workplace culture. A culture that supports mental health can improve overall employee morale and job satisfaction.

3. Increased Employee Engagement

Mental health training can increase employee engagement by promoting a healthy work-life balance. When employees are trained to manage their stress and take care of their mental health, they are more likely to be fully engaged in their work and perform at their best.

4. Improved Communication

Mental health training can improve communication between employees and their managers. When employees feel comfortable discussing mental health concerns, they are more likely to be open and honest about their needs. This can lead to better accommodations, support, and overall job satisfaction.

5. Enhanced Productivity

Mental health training can help employees develop strategies to manage their mental health and maintain their productivity. By promoting a culture of mental health, companies can reduce absenteeism, presenteeism, and turnover rates, leading to increased productivity and profitability.

How Wellbeing Campus Can Help You to Implement Mental Health Training in the Workplace

1. Assess Your Needs

The first step in implementing mental health training is to assess your company's needs. Conduct a survey or focus group to understand the mental health concerns of your employees and their level of awareness about mental health. This can help you tailor your training program to address the specific needs of your workforce.

2. Develop a Training Program

Based on your needs assessment, develop a mental health training program that is tailored to the needs of your employees. This can include in-person workshops, online courses, or a combination of both. Consider partnering with mental health professionals or employee assistance programs to provide expertise and support.

3. Promote the Training Program

Promote your mental health training program to your employees to ensure that they are aware of the resources available to them. Use various communication channels such as email, newsletters, and intranet to promote the program and encourage participation.

4. Encourage Participation

Encourage participation in the mental health training program by offering incentives or recognition to employees who complete the training. Consider offering flexible scheduling or time off to attend training sessions.

5. Evaluate the Program

Evaluate the effectiveness of the mental health training program regularly. Conduct surveys or focus groups to understand the impact of the training on employee well-being, engagement, and productivity. Use this feedback to improve the program and address any gaps or concerns.

If you would like further information on how we can assist you in conducting training, or Workplace Wellbeing assessments contact us today.