Mental health in the workplace

Ensuring the physical health of employees has long been considered vital, with many companies providing their staff gym memberships, fruit boxes, and more. However, only recently has the importance of mental health in the workplace begun to receive similar recognition. There have been recent stories of heroic employers and bosses, but there is still more to do before it is fully understood and effectively dealt with.

World Mental Health Day is observed every year on 10 October and in 2017, Mental Health Week will run from Sunday 8 October to Saturday 14 October. To mark the occasion, we have put together a list of a few organisations that have made it their mission to put employers and employees on the road to a healthier headspace at work.

SANE Australia

SANE Australia is a national charity that aims to reduce the risk of suicide and improve people’s lives. It provides a Freecall and online service for people seeking information and operates an anonymous forum offering peer support for people affected by mental illness. SANE’s Mindful Employer program teaches managers how to respond to mental health issues in the workplace, equipping them with the skills to effectively identify the signs and the correct course of action. Take a look at SANE Australia’s resources for the workplace.

beyondblue

beyondblue is a non-profit organisation that works with schools, universities, workplaces and the community to raise awareness and tackle issues of mental health and illness. Their focus is across the whole population, seeing mental health as affecting everyone across their lifespan, rather than just afflicting a few. Their Heads Up program is specially designed to give businesses and employers the resources they need to deal with the mental health of their employees effectively and compassionately.

Black Dog Institute

Black Dog Institute is dedicated to mentally healthier world and incorporates research, clinical services and community education to create a holistic approach. Founded in 2002, Black Dog Institute offers advice and support for all mental health issues and has a dedicated Workplace Mental Health Toolkit. It features practical advice for employers and businesses on creating a safe environment for their employees.