World Mental Health Day: 5 Steps to Enhance Mental Health and Safety in the Workplace

Work-related stress, depression and anxiety are growing concerns in today’s workplaces. Each day, about one million Americans miss work due to mental health challenges, costing businesses around $51 billion annually in absenteeism, according to the American Institute of Stress.

This issue is especially prevalent in industrial sectors like construction, manufacturing, warehouse operations and transportation. A recent report shows that 50% of workers in these industries report stress. As we mark World Mental Health Day, it’s a timely reminder that workplace safety must extend beyond physical health. Mental health and psychological safety are just as crucial in keeping employees safe and productive.

Why Mental Health and Safety Should Be a Priority for Employers

A mentally healthy workforce is better equipped to navigate the challenges of high-risk industries. Poor mental well-being impacts concentration, decision-making and reaction times, all of which can contribute to workplace accidents. By prioritizing mental health, employers not only reduce the risk of accidents but also foster a culture where employees are more likely to follow safety protocols and communicate effectively.

Employers also have a legal and ethical duty to create safe and healthy workplaces. Many regulations now acknowledge mental health as a key part of occupational health and safety. Ignoring it puts employees at risk and exposes companies to legal liabilities. So how can employers support their teams and create an environment where mental health is a core part of safety protocols?

1. Training and Education

Risk Awareness Programs: Implement mental health awareness and stress management training tailored to your industry. Educate employees on the mental health risks they may face and provide strategies to help them manage those risks.

Resilience Training: Offer workshops to build resilience, helping employees cope with high-pressure situations through mindfulness exercises, stress reduction techniques and encouraging them to seek support.

2. Flexible Work Arrangements

Agile Initiatives: Recognize the demanding nature of industrial jobs and promote a healthy work-life balance. This could include flexible scheduling or compressed workweeks to give employees more control over their time.

Regular Breaks: Encourage employees to take breaks to recharge both physically and mentally. In high-stress environments, these breaks are essential to prevent burnout and maintain productivity.

3. Mental Health Support Services

Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): Provide access to confidential counseling and support services. These programs offer valuable resources for employees dealing with personal or work-related stress.

Peer Support Networks: Establish peer support groups to foster a sense of community and reduce the stigma around mental health. Connecting with colleagues who face similar challenges can be comforting and empowering.

4. Embedding Mental Health into Safe Operations

Leadership Involvement: Leadership must actively embed mental health support as part of the company's operations. When leaders prioritize mental health, it reduces stigma and encourages employees to seek help without fear of judgment.

Regular Check-Ins: Supervisors should check in regularly with employees to discuss not only work-related matters but also personal well-being. These conversations can help identify potential mental health issues early and offer support.

5. Trauma-Informed Support

Trauma-Informed Training: Train managers and supervisors to recognize the signs of trauma and respond with sensitivity. This is particularly important in industries where employees may be exposed to traumatic or high-stress events.

Access to Counseling Services: Ensure employees have access to trauma-informed counselors who understand the unique challenges of your industry. This specialized support can be critical for employees who have experienced trauma at work.

Debriefing Protocols: After difficult incidents, implement debriefing sessions where employees can process their experiences in a supportive environment. This can help prevent the development of post-traumatic stress symptoms and promote a culture of openness.

A Focus Beyond World Mental Health Day

Prioritizing mental health alongside physical safety benefits everyone. When employees feel valued and supported, their performance, productivity and commitment to safety increase. It’s time for organizations to take mental health seriously—not just on World Mental Health Day, but every day.

Learn more about how to make mental well-being a daily focus in your workplace by checking out our mental health highlight reel from the “Two Bald Guys Talking Safety” podcast.