Participating in Mental Health Awareness Week is a terrific way to show you care about your employees’ wellbeing. Mental Health Awareness Week 2023 is an important time to focus on employee wellbeing, and this year’s theme is anxiety.
Anxiety is a common problem faced by 60% of adults, and it significantly impacts workplace wellbeing. This blog post will explore the challenges posed by anxiety in the workplace and how employers can better support their employees’ mental health during Mental Health Awareness Week 2023.
Mental Health Awareness Week 2023, Why Get Involved?
There are many advantages to having a healthy workplace. Employees who feel physically and mentally healthy generate positive energy, which is beneficial for their personal productivity and motivates their co-workers.
Employers can prevent illness, stress, fatigue, and even workplace accidents by promoting workplace wellbeing. Implementing wellness programmes improves organisational culture and fosters a more positive attitude among employees.
Symptoms And Causes of Anxiety for Employees
Employee wellbeing is crucial for businesses to thrive. And as Mental Health Awareness Week 2023 approaches, it’s important to take a closer look at anxiety and how it affects employees. Anxiety is a mental health disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. There are several causes and different types of anxiety that employees may experience. Some causes of anxiety may include genetics, brain chemistry, life experiences, or a combination of these factors. Generalised anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and phobia are some of the most common types of anxiety individuals may experience.
There are several anxiety symptoms, and it’s important to spot them early on. Anxiety symptoms may include restlessness, fatigue, trouble concentrating, irritability, muscle tension, and sleep problems. It’s important to note that anxiety symptoms may manifest differently in each individual.
How Can Businesses Support Employees with Anxiety?
As an employer, it’s essential to recognise that anxiety can significantly impact your employees’ wellbeing. If left unaddressed, anxiety can lead to decreased productivity, increased absenteeism, and decreased job satisfaction. That’s why it’s crucial to take steps to support your employees who are struggling with anxiety.
The first step in supporting employees with anxiety is to encourage open communication. Create a safe space where employees feel comfortable speaking up about their mental health struggles. Make sure your employees know that it’s okay to ask for help if they need it. Consider providing training for managers and HR professionals on how to support employees with mental health concerns.
It’s also essential to look for signs of anxiety in your employees. Changes in behaviour, such as increased irritability or restlessness, could be indications that an employee is struggling with anxiety. Other signs may include decreased work performance, difficulty concentrating, or increased absenteeism.
Employers can offer a range of support and resources to employees who are struggling with anxiety. Providing access to counselling services can be particularly beneficial. Many organisations now offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), which provide confidential counselling services to employees and their families.
Flexible work arrangements can also be helpful for employees with anxiety. This may include allowing employees to work from home, adjusting work schedules, or providing job-sharing opportunities. Employers may also consider implementing mental health days, enabling employees to take time off work to focus on their mental health.
In summary, supporting employees with anxiety requires a multi-faceted approach. Encourage open communication, look for signs of anxiety, and offer a range of support and resources. By taking these steps, you can help ensure the wellbeing of your employees and create a happier, healthier workplace.
When is Mental Health Awareness Week 2023?
Mental Health Awareness Week takes place from Monday, 15th May to Sunday, 21st May this year. This week-long event is an opportunity for businesses to demonstrate their commitment to their employees’ mental health by promoting open conversations and supporting positive initiatives.
Aligned with this year’s theme, we have curated a limited-edition wellness gift, Calm. This collection of luxurious relaxation items has been specifically selected to restore balance and reduce anxiety. With each Calm gift box purchased, a £1 donation is made to our mental health charity partner, MIND, on behalf of your company.
Many businesses in the UK have already ordered Calm gift hampers to support their teams, showing their dedication to employee wellbeing. Take the chance to show your employees that you care during Mental Health Awareness Week 2023.
Download the WellBox Gift Brochure
