Mental health is everyone's business: Cultivating a culture of well-being

Making mental health a priority for every employee

Mental Health Awareness Month serves as a vital reminder that prioritizing well-being in the workplace isn't a fleeting trend – it's a fundamental aspect of effective leadership and a responsibility shared by every member of the organization. The statistics are stark: according to the National Institute of Mental Health, over one in five American adults experience a mental illness annually.¹ This underscores the reality that mental health impacts individuals at all levels, from the front lines to the executive suite.

Once you’ve read through this article, make sure to watch a replay of our recent webinar, Creating Psychological Safety in the Workplace: Empowering Leaders to Foster Trust, Openness, and Well-being.

Here are five practical strategies that every employee, including managers and individual contributors alike, can embrace to cultivate a mentally healthy workplace:

1. Normalize Mental Health Conversations:

• Speak openly about stress, well-being, and your own experiences.
• Discuss mental health in team meetings (when appropriate), and use inclusive language

2. Check in with Intention:

• Take a moment to ask, "How are you really doing?" and actively listen to the response.

3. Promote and Personalize Mental Health Resources:

• Familiarize yourself with the mental health resources available through your organization, such as Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), mental health days, and insurance benefits.
• Share this information with colleagues who might benefit.

4. Respect Boundaries and Encourage Flexibility:

• Be mindful of your own boundaries and respect the boundaries of others.
• Avoid sending emails late at night or expecting immediate responses outside of work hours.
• Encourage a culture where taking breaks and utilizing time off is not only accepted but encouraged.

5. Take Advantage of Tools and Training:

• Seek out opportunities to learn more about mental health, active listening skills, and how to support colleagues in distress. Many online resources and workshops can provide valuable insights.
• NYL GBS offers eligible employers and their employees access to Guidance Resources®, a site with training and resources on topics such as health and wellness, family and relationships, and on-demand training.

Moving beyond mere awareness to meaningful action requires a collective commitment. Small, consistent steps taken by every employee can ripple throughout the organization, creating a workplace culture where mental health is not just acknowledged but actively prioritized and supported. Let's all take ownership in fostering an environment where everyone can thrive, both personally and professionally.

To learn more about work-life services from NYL GBS, including Employee Assistance & Wellness Support, or for information on Guidance Resources®, contact your NYL GBS representative.

¹https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/mental-illness

For eligible participants only. These programs are NOT insurance and do not provide reimbursement for financial losses. Some restrictions may apply. These services are provided exclusively by ComPsych® Corporation. Customers are required to pay the entire discounted charge for any discounted products or services available through these programs. Some services are available at the option of the employer for an additional cost. Programs are provided through third party vendors who are solely responsible for their products and services. Full terms, conditions and exclusions are contained in the applicable client program description and are subject to change. Program availability may vary by plan type and location and are not available where prohibited by law. ComPsych is solely responsible for its services and is not affiliated with New York Life Insurance Company or any of its affiliates. Some of these programs are not available under policies issued by New York Life Group Insurance Company of NY.

SMRU 7837282 Exp. 04/09/2028