The healthcare workplace has never had a reputation for being the best place to spend your day, but maybe it’s time for a change.
So many parts of our lives are connected to our workday. Things like commutes, sleep cycles, and social circles are deeply intertwined because of our workplace.
If job stress is a top contributor to mental and emotional health issues, it’s the best place to boost employees’ mental well-being. Keep reading for six ways medical office managers can support employees’ mental health.
Why it’s essential for managers to support employees’ mental health.
Having policies to support employees’ mental health can benefit both the office environment and the bottom line. Here are just a few reasons managers need to promote workplace mental health:
- Increased productivity
- Better retention
- Improved creativity
Include mental health insurance as part of the health care plan.
Ensure that your health insurance coverage offers adequate support for mental health care. Many alternative treatments have mental health and physical benefits, so consider covering both mental health-related and alternative care. Treatment options such as acupuncture, chiropractors, and massage therapy have made dramatic differences in improving mental health.
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Model healthy behaviors.
Don’t just say you support mental health. As a manager, be an example so your team members feel that they can set boundaries and prioritize self-care. Often, managers are so focused on their staff and getting the work done that they forget to care for themselves.
Train managers on a protocol if they see signs of emotional distress.
The traditional method of handling mental health is to pretend it’s not an issue, but that has been proven not to work. People must be able to be their authentic selves to work, and they usually thrive when they do.
Find manager training that supports employees who may not feel their best. Managers need to learn to listen without judgment and how to offer positive steps to help staff.
Build an office culture of connection through check-ins.
Intentionally checking in employees regularly is crucial. With so much of the workforce working from home, it can be even more challenging to notice if someone is struggling.
Go beyond a simple “How is it going?” and ask detailed questions. Wait for the complete answer, be sure to listen and encourage concerns.
Use conversation to reduce the stigma associated with mental health.
Be open to communication about mental and emotional health. You don’t have to reveal every part of your personal life but sharing a simple “today has been difficult and overwhelming,” can be affirming to others.
Having the ability to be honest with your colleagues and team boosts retention and productivity at healthcare practices. To survive in our new normal, it’s not enough just to treat mental issues. We must get ahead of depression, stress, and anxiety by emphasizing the importance of mental health and positivity.
Cultivating our awareness of how we feel, and think will give us an extra edge at the workplace. It provides us with the foundation to live inspired, healthy, more fulfilling lives.
Tags: Employees’ Mental Health, Mental Health Posted by
