Mind Matters – Paying Attention to Mental Health in the Workplace

South Africa’s workplaces face a silent epidemic: a growing number of employees struggling with mental health issues. Recent studies reveal a staggering prevalence of depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders, with one in three South Africans likely to experience such challenges in their lifetime. This crisis is exacerbated by the stigma surrounding mental health, limited access to care, and the ongoing impact of socio-economic factors.

As we approach World Mental Health Day on October 10th, it is essential to shed light on this pressing issue and advocate for greater awareness, understanding, and support in the workplace for individuals dealing with mental health struggles.

The juggling act – what affects mental health at work?

Given that we spend at least eight hours of each day at work, our workplaces can be a major source of stress, anxiety, and even depression. Factors like excessive workloads, understaffing, long hours, or a lack of support can push us to our limits. Unsafe working practices, violence, harassment, and discrimination can further strain our mental well-being. Feeling undervalued through lack of recognition or promotion, job insecurity, and inadequate training can also be detrimental.

Your role in caring for your own mental health

Being able to care for your mental health at work starts with being able to talk about it. If mental health struggles are impacting your work, it’s important to communicate honestly with your supervisor. Break the silence and share your concerns with your employer or line manager. This will help them understand your situation so they can provide the support you need.

It is critical to seek professional help. Don’t hesitate to consult with a counsellor or doctor. Mental health conditions are valid reasons for sick leave to which you are entitled, so prioritise your well-being.

Focus on self-care strategies:

• Utilise your leave: Take advantage of your annual leave to rest, recharge, and engage in activities that promote relaxation.
• Prioritise self-care: Make time for non-work activities that you enjoy and that help you unwind. This could include hobbies, spending time in nature, or practising mindfulness techniques.
• Manage your workload: Focus on what you can control and ask for help in prioritising tasks effectively. Avoid overloading yourself and find the means to push back when necessary.

Remember:

• You can’t pour from an empty cup. It’s essential to take care of yourself so that you can be productive and effective at work.
• Seek support: Don’t be afraid to reach out to friends, family, or support groups for emotional support. You are not alone in your experiences and we all need help from time to time.
• Be kind to yourself: Treat yourself with compassion and understanding. The same way you would if it was someone else in your shoes.

A compassionate workplace that supports mental health

Employers have a unique opportunity to create a workplace where employees feel valued, supported, and understood. By fostering a culture of compassion and understanding, employers can help to alleviate the burden of mental health challenges and create a healthier, more productive work environment.

Organisations should take proactive steps such as:

• Training managers to recognise mental health signs
• Educate employees about mental health
• Offering Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)
• Creating a safe and inclusive workplace

When an employee discloses a mental health condition, organisations should take reactive steps such as:

• Offering compassionate support and counselling
• Considering reasonable accommodations
• Maintaining confidentiality
• Ensuring compliance with leave entitlements

Employers may need to implement reasonable accommodations to help employees manage their mental health conditions. This could include flexible work arrangements, reduced workloads, or adjustments to the work environment. By prioritising mental health in practical ways, employers can create a workplace where individuals can ask for the help they need.

What happens if performance is affected?

Mental health struggles can sometimes impact job performance. It happens. But can you be dismissed for mental health reasons? Dismissal should always be the last resort. South African labour law insists that employers explore alternatives. This can include counselling, reduced working hours, or a lighter workload.

Remember:

• Procedural fairness is essential – offering proper support and considering alternative solutions before dismissal.
• The Employment Equity Act encourages employers to find ways to accommodate employees experiencing mental health challenges.
• The Code of Good Practice underlines the employer’s obligation to determine if an employee can still perform their duties before considering dismissal, and the employee must be given a fair chance to challenge the employer’s conclusions about their mental health.

Looking forward

By promoting mental health awareness, fostering open communication, and utilising available resources, both employers and employees can build a work environment that supports well-being and optimal performance simultaneously.

Blog By: Carla de Waal
Carla de Waal: CarlaDW@hammondpole.co.za