Creating a Thriving Workplace: Prioritizing Mental Health in Your Business

“If you want to be happy and healthy, you have to let go of that incredibly destructive word: Perfect,” Silken Laumann, an Olympic medalist, speaker, author and founder of Unsinkable, explained.

As you build your business, it's important to create a workplace environment that supports the mental health and well-being of your employees. In this article, we will explore ten practical steps you can take to cultivate a positive and nurturing work atmosphere.

Foster a Positive and Inclusive Culture

The Link Between Entrepreneurship and Mental Health Conditions

Source: https://www.visualcapitalist.com/entrepreneurship-and-mental-health/

Promoting a positive and inclusive culture is the foundation of a mentally healthy workplace. Encourage open communication, respect for diverse perspectives, and collaboration among your team. Emphasize the value of each individual and create an atmosphere where everyone feels supported and valued.

Prioritize Work-Life Balance

Recognize the importance of work-life balance for your employees. Set realistic expectations and provide flexible work arrangements whenever possible. Encourage your team to take time off, maintain healthy boundaries, and recharge outside of work hours. By promoting work-life balance, you create an environment that values overall well-being.

Provide Mental Health Resources

Offer access to mental health resources to support your employees' well-being. Consider providing counseling services, employee assistance programs, or workshops focused on stress management, mindfulness, and emotional wellness. By offering these resources, you demonstrate your commitment to supporting their mental health journey.

Promote Healthy Breaks

Encourage your employees to take regular breaks throughout the workday. Create spaces where they can unwind, relax, and recharge. Encourage physical activity, stretching, or relaxation exercises during breaks. These moments of rejuvenation will help boost productivity and overall well-being.

Establish Clear Communication Channels

Establish transparent and open communication channels within your organization. Create a safe environment where employees feel comfortable expressing their thoughts, concerns, and ideas. Foster a culture of active listening, providing regular opportunities for one-on-one or team discussions. By promoting clear and open communication, you foster trust and collaboration.

Encourage Workload Balance

Be mindful of the workload your employees carry. Monitor and manage workloads to ensure they are reasonable and distributed equitably. Encourage teamwork and provide support to help manage workload pressures. By promoting workload balance, you reduce stress levels and prevent burnout among your team.

Source: https://www.visualcapitalist.com/entrepreneurship-and-mental-health/

Recognize and Appreciate Achievements

Celebrate the achievements of your employees and acknowledge their efforts. Regularly recognize individual and team successes to boost morale and foster a sense of accomplishment. Provide constructive feedback and create a culture of appreciation. By showing gratitude, you create a positive and motivating work environment.

Promote Professional Development

Invest in the professional development of your employees. Offer opportunities for skill enhancement through training programs, workshops, or mentorship initiatives. Empower them to grow and expand their knowledge, showing that you value their long-term success. By supporting their professional growth, you contribute to their overall well-being and job satisfaction.

Create a Supportive Physical Environment

Design a physical workspace that supports the mental well-being of your employees. Ensure it is comfortable, well-lit, and conducive to productivity. Consider incorporating elements such as natural lighting, greenery, and ergonomic furniture. By creating a supportive physical environment, you enhance their overall work experience.

Lead by Example

Lead by example and prioritize your own mental health. Show your employees that self-care and work-life balance are essential. Encourage them to take breaks, pursue personal interests, and maintain healthy boundaries. By modeling these behaviors, you inspire your team to prioritize their well-being.

Creating a workplace environment that nurtures the mental health and well-being of your employees is a powerful investment in their success and the overall growth of your business. By implementing the ten practical steps discussed in this article, you have the opportunity to cultivate a positive, supportive, and thriving work atmosphere.

Learn More

BDC has compiled a nation-wide list of resources designed to support the mental health and wellbeing of entrepreneurs and the general population.

If you need help right now, text WELLNESS to 741741 to chat with a volunteer crisis responder 24/7 at no-cost in English or French as part of Health Canada’s Wellness Together Canada service. You can also call 1-866-585-0445 if you would prefer to talk to someone.

Want to learn more about women’s mental health and the future of work? Read WEKH’s (Women’s Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub), our partner organization, article on the subject here.