Empower your workforce to prioritize well-being 

As we enter May, Mental Health Awareness Month, it is an opportune time for organizations to reflect on their commitment to mental health support and to actively communicate the resources available to employees, ensuring that everyone feels empowered to prioritize their well-being.

In recent years, employers have increasingly recognized the critical importance of mental health support for employees, driven by a deeper understanding of its impact on overall well-being, productivity and organizational culture.

Many employers are now enhancing their mental health services through employer-sponsored health plans, employee assistance programs or focused point solutions.

According to Mercer’s 2024 National Survey of Employer-Sponsored Health Plans, 21% of large employers have augmented their mental health resources with a network of exclusively virtual providers. Nearly half are offering more modalities for care through their EAPs to “meet employees where they are,” including coaching for mild, subclinical issues and text therapy for those who prefer asynchronous messaging over traditional live sessions.

However, having robust mental health benefits is only part of the solution; awareness of these resources is crucial. A recent article in HR Executive highlights that if employees are unaware of the mental health support available to them, they are unlikely to utilize it, regardless of its comprehensiveness. This disconnect often leads to low utilization rates, prompting organizations to reassess their communication strategies.

To bridge this gap, it is essential to communicate the availability and value of mental health benefits frequently and through various channels. Relying solely on one method can result in important messages being overlooked. Organizations should adopt a multi-faceted approach that includes messages from the C-suite, engaging videos, informative written materials and interactive town hall meetings.

Additionally, managers should incorporate discussions about mental health into team meetings, normalizing these topics and encouraging open dialogue. Making mental health discussions personal can significantly enhance their impact; leaders should feel empowered to share their own experiences, demonstrating vulnerability and authenticity.

When employees see their leaders openly discussing mental health, it fosters a culture of openness and support, making it easier for them to seek help when needed. Training managers to recognize and address mental health concerns is also vital for creating a supportive and inclusive work environment.

By effectively communicating about mental health benefits, organizations not only enhance employee satisfaction and retention but also improve overall performance and resilience in an ever-changing work landscape.