According to experts, every $1 invested in excellent mental health treatment yields a $4 return in better performance and health. That's because fostering a positive work atmosphere that encourages mental health initiatives results in productivity gains, a decline in absenteeism, increased participation, collaboration and communication improvements, and improved customer retention and loyalty.
All of these benefits demonstrate that remote companies who strive to reduce stress and assist their employees in better managing their stress levels will benefit in multiple ways.
It is absolutely worth the time, effort, and corporate resources to prioritize your remote employees' mental health. One of the leading causes of depression is chronic occupational stress. It could be caused by workplace risk factors such as unclear tasks and duties, excessive workload, assigned tasks unsuited for one's experience/competency, rigid work hours, and the like.
Methods through which remote companies can support mental health in the workspace
Promote a Mental Health Awareness Culture
When it comes to boosting your employees' emotional and physical well-being, workplace mental health programs have proven to be effective.
These initiatives not only educate employees but also assist to lessen the stigma and fear associated with discussing these topics. Make it clear to employees that you're devoted to making the workplace a better, healthier place to work. Start by informing them about the signs and symptoms of burnout, where they may obtain treatment and support, and stress-relieving strategies.
Improve coworker connections by being more proactive
Employees build strong social circles in the workplace as a result of a company culture that encourages open communication, universal access to support, and worker participation. This contributes to the development of good team connections that are driven to create and explore new ideas, resulting in increased productivity and creativity. Employees who feel alone and detached from their coworkers are more likely to be stressed and are less inclined to confide in others or seek help when they require it.
Make healthy work-life balance a priority
Even if your remote employees aren't keeping track of their time, managers should keep an eye on who's working late and be the first to reply to communications. As a result, you might wish to:
- Teach staff how to set healthy work boundaries remotely.
- Allow for mental health days and schedule flexibility.
- Allow your staff to disconnect once a week or biweekly without affecting their vacation days.
- Practice asynchronous communication so that staff doesn't feel obligated to be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Provide free professional and personal development opportunities
Personal development aids professional advancement and increases employee loyalty. Furthermore, as your employees gain new abilities, your organization benefits from all of their increased knowledge.
As an example, consider the following: employees are given the tools they need to make objectives, manage their professional and personal lives, and control their stress levels through lifestyle coaching and self-management programs. Courses on professional development will assist them in progressing in their jobs, you will find a plethora of free online classes and courses available to use that will significantly assist in improving your employees' mental health and therefore, stimulate their overall output.