Mental Health at Work: Now is the Time to Change the Narrative | #HRTea
Our newest episode of #HRTea is now live on iTunes and Google Play! On this episode, Bethany sat down with Kelly Greenwood, Founder and CEO of Mind Share Partners, a national non-profit focused on changing the culture of workplace mental health so both employees and organizations can thrive.
Bethany & Kelly recording this episode during the SHRM Inclusion Conference in New Orleans, October 2019.
The topic of mental health in the workplace has long been faux pas. Employees have rarely felt safe discussing mental health concerns with their employers for fear of shame, embarrassment, or worse, professional repercussions. But mental health is far from a rare problem faced by few. The vast majority of us will face some form of mental health challenge in our lifetime, if we have not already.
Annually 17 billion dollars of productivity is lost in the US alone for unaddressed mental health conditions. Now, more than ever, in the face of a global pandemic, we need to address mental health in the workplace and give employees the support they need. Times of crisis, like what we are currently facing with COVID19, lead to uncertainty, changing work environments, and unknowns for the future. These, coupled with added health and financial concerns, create triggers for mental health episodes that will be faced by many during this time.
Now, more than ever, we need to consider the impact of mental health in our workplaces. And, now, more than ever we need organizations to think about the resources they provide for employees during this time and going forward around these issues. Now is the time to change the narrative on mental health in the workplace!
After you listen, connect with Kelly and Mind Share Partners, and check out some of the toolkits and resources they have made available:
Connect with Mind Share Partners on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, and their website.
Read the study on HBR that Kelly cited in the episode.
Check out the Mind Share Partners toolkits for best practices from the field, scientific research, and insights from professionals managing mental health conditions.
Check out this new resource from Mind Share Partners to address workplace mental health during the coronavirus pandemic.
If you are struggling with your own mental health, here are a few resources to consider:
Check out the CDC's resources for taking care of your mental health while coping with disaster or crisis.
If you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts, call the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.
Text the Crisis Text Line. Text HOME to 741741 for 24/7, anonymous, free crisis counseling.
If you are struggling with substance abuse, call the Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration at 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
Please remember, you are not alone! Take care of yourself and take care of each other during these times. We are all in this together!
As always, we would love to hear what you thought of the episode and how you plan to incorporate your ideas into your organization or own life. Share your thoughts here or through social media using #HRTea.
Cheers!
