As we enter 2023, mental health at work will continue to be a major focus. Over the past few years, more and more employers have realized that they need to protect the mental health and well-being of their employees and make these efforts part of their corporate attraction and retention programs.
I interviewed a registered psychologist Dr. Daniel SellingCEO Williamsburg Therapy GroupHere are the mental health trends that will impact the workplace in 2023. Here are three notable trends:
Mental health becomes front and center.
Burnout, anxiety and depression rates are at record levels. Beyond pushing employers to provide generous benefits to their employees, companies will be forced to rethink how they create a supportive work environment.
“Employees want to work in places that value both their productivity and their emotional well-being,” says Dr. Selling. “Insurers appear to offer mental health care options, but finding quality care covered by a plan can be difficult and frustrating. This often leads employees to seek mental health care independently of company-provided insurance. “Providing mental health services that employees cannot access or compromising the user experience is counterproductive.”
Mental health companies like WTG help make it easier for employers to provide quality mental health care to their employees, he explained. This also benefits businesses. “Higher employee satisfaction, less stress and anxiety means more productive employees, which dramatically improves employee retention and satisfaction.”
As many employees continue to work from home, employers need to provide systems and services. … [+]
Hybrid work isn’t going anywhere.
In a tight labor market looking to attract and retain talent, employers are expected to meet employee demands for flexible work schedules, including telecommuting. When asked about the benefits of hybrid work. Dr Selling said: By making it easier to balance work and personal life, you can reduce stress and burnout. Hybrid work allows people to work in comfortable and familiar environments, promoting safety and well-being. ’ It also cuts out a potentially stressful commute.
However, the downside of working from home is that employees can “feel lonely, disconnected from their colleagues, and without any support.” For some, it can lead to burnout and work-life imbalance. Because they think they have to, they can feel guilty and pressured to be available all the time.”
Hybrid work can also affect men and women differently. Dr. Selling explains: For example, a woman may take on excessive household and caregiving responsibilities, making it more difficult for hybrids to fully participate in her work. Women are also more likely to face discrimination and stigma in hybrid work environments, which can have a negative impact on their mental health. ”
Recognizing both the benefits and challenges of hybrid work encourages regular communication and connection with managers and colleagues, sets clear boundaries between work and personal time, and provides employees with appropriate support. and resources to encourage employers to meet the challenges they face. “Establish a way to track employee engagement, productivity and health and provide assistance when needed.”
Another Predicted Trend: Employees Continue to Demand Location and Time Flexibility … [+]
More companies will adopt a four-day work week.
By 2023, employees will also demand more control over their working hours. This could lead more companies to adopt a four-day work week to stay competitive.
Selling explains that a four-day work week can be good for your mental health in several ways.
- Improving work-life balance
- less stress
- Increase focus and productivity
- Increased job satisfaction
- better physical health
“It is important to remember that these benefits are not guaranteed and depend on the person’s work, personal and family circumstances. You may find that stress builds up and harms your mental health.”
