5 solutions to promote mental health in the workplace
Mental health is an essential aspect of overall well-being, and in Switzerland, it has become a subject of increasing concern. According to the Swiss Federal Statistical Office, around a third of the Swiss population is affected at some time by psychological disorders such as stress, depression or anxiety. The impact of these disorders on the world of work is considerable, for both employees and employers.
The impact of mental disorders in Switzerland :
In Switzerland, it is estimated that over a million people are affected by mental health problems every year. Among them, many workers suffer in silence, resulting in lower productivity, increased absenteeism and a greater risk of burn-out. A study conducted in 2022 reveals that almost 40% of Swiss employees say they are stressed by their work, and 16% say they have suffered burnout. This represents a burden not only for individuals, but also for the Swiss economy.
Whether we like it or not, summer is coming to an end, and as winter approaches, our sense of fatigue increases. During this period of transition, it’s common to face a few personal challenges such as stress, overwork, and even symptoms of seasonal depression.
The benefits of investing in mental health for employers :
Promoting mental health within the company is not just a humanitarian act, it’s also a strategic investment for employers. Here are just a few of the concrete benefits:
1. Reduced absenteeism: Companies that actively support their employees’ mental health see a significant drop in absenteeism linked to stress or psychological disorders. A healthy work environment helps prevent long-term sick leave.
2. Increased productivity: A mentally healthy employee is more focused, motivated and efficient. By reducing distractions linked to personal or professional problems, the company can maximize the effectiveness of its teams.
3. Employee loyalty: Companies that focus on the mental well-being of their employees show that they care about their well-being, which in turn promotes talent retention and reduces employee turnover.
4. Improved corporate culture: Encouraging mental health fosters a caring, open and productive corporate culture. This translates into better collaboration, smoother communication and a pleasant working climate.
Easy-to-implement solutions to promote mental health :
Implementing measures to improve mental health in the workplace doesn’t necessarily require heavy or complex investment. Here are some practical and effective solutions :
1. Encourage wellness activities: Encouraging the practice of physical activities, such as yoga classes, meditation sessions or sports groups, helps relieve stress and improve overall mental health.
2. Encourage regular breaks and moments of disconnection: Organize seated massage sessions and thus encourage your employees to take regular breaks and get away from screens. This helps reduce mental fatigue and boosts physical health.
3. Offer stress management training: Organizing workshops on stress management, psychological resilience or sleep can help employees cope better with pressure. It also helps prevent burn-outs.
4. Set up a psychological support program: Offering consultations with a psychologist or an anonymous helpline accessible at any time can provide invaluable support for employees going through difficult times.
5. Offer flexible working hours: Telecommuting and flexible working hours enable employees to achieve a better work-life balance. This approach reduces stress linked to personal obligations, contributing to a better mental balance.
A societal and economic challenge :
Mental well-being is a societal issue in Switzerland. Every year, mental disorders cost the Swiss economy billions of francs in lost productivity and healthcare costs. According to an estimate by the Swiss Health Observatory, the direct and indirect costs associated with mental health problems amount to around 20 billion francs a year. For employers, taking action on the mental health of their teams is not only a way of reducing these costs, but also of contributing to a healthier, more balanced society.
Conclusion :
Promoting mental health within Swiss companies is a strategic issue that benefits all stakeholders. By taking simple steps to support their employees, employers can not only improve productivity, but also strengthen the commitment and loyalty of their teams. It’s time to recognize that mental well-being is not just a personal issue, but a key success factor for companies and Swiss society as a whole.
To mark World Mental Health Day, we are making available a guided meditation video to promote relaxation and well-being at work :
