Recent data reveals that “mental health problems are associated with a number of workplace issues, such as compensation failing to keep up with inflation, electronic monitoring of employees, certain groups experiencing discrimination and feeling a lack of acceptance, and some employees even experiencing toxic or abusive workplaces.”
We already know a post-COVID workplace looks very different than it did before the pandemic forced organizations to quickly develop remote work processes and implement new technologies—creating a shift in both employee experience and company protocols.
Accompanying this adjustment, employees have reported dealing with isolation, fears of the virus, and an overwhelming news cycle. As a response, workplace leaders have realized the need to address mental health concerns among their staff, and rightfully so.
The results of APA’s 2022 Work and Well-being Survey reveal that seven in 10 workers (71%) believe their employer is more concerned about the mental health of employees now than in the past. This new focus is highly valued by employees. In fact, 81% of individuals said they will be looking for workplaces that support mental health when they seek future job opportunities.
Employers can offer mental health support to their employees in different ways. According to the survey responses, many employees reported that their employers already offer some of these supports, such as flexible work schedules (46%) and remote work options (37%).
And while only a small portion (11%) of company leaders reportedly offered training surrounding mental health, 94% of employees found such training to be effective.
Overall, employer-provided support for mental health has increased; 71% reported believing their employer is more concerned about the mental health of employees now than they were in the past. When asked specifically whether mental health and safety initiatives have gotten better compared with before the COVID-19 pandemic, one-third (31%) said they had. According to APA, the experience appears to be different depending on work context.
With the evolving array of challenges and obstacles employees face at work, employers can use this pivotal moment in time to look at opportunities to improve well-being and health—including the suggestions their own workers offer.
