Prioritising Workplace Mental Health for World Mental Health Day 2024
Today, 10th October 2024, Step Up joins the global community in recognising World Mental Health Day. This year’s theme focuses on an issue that is particularly meaningful to our company: Workplace Mental Health.
Mental wellbeing is essential not just for individuals, but for the health of organisations, communities, and society as a whole. At Step Up, we aim to prioritise the mental health and wellbeing of our staff and the young people we support.
Why ‘Workplace Mental Health’ Matters
Work plays a significant role in shaping our lives. For many, it’s more than just a way to earn a living – it’s where we spend a large portion of our time, build relationships, and find purpose. Yet, workplace pressures can sometimes lead to stress, anxiety, burnout, and even mental health conditions.
This year’s theme, Workplace Mental Health, highlights the growing importance of creating environments where employees can thrive mentally, emotionally, and socially. A healthy, supportive work environment is key to productivity, satisfaction, and happiness – and we’re proud to be actively contributing to that every day.
Our Commitment to Mental Health in the Workplace
At Step Up, we understand the value of mental wellbeing, and we are committed to creating a company culture where people feel supported. As we participate in World Mental Health Day, here are some of the key actions we are taking to contribute to healthier workplaces:
1. Comprehensive Employee Wellbeing & Health Plans
We believe that mental and physical health go hand in hand. That’s why we’ve partnered with Medicash to offer a comprehensive healthcare plan that supports both our employees and their families. From physical health treatments to mental health support, our plan ensures that every aspect of wellbeing is covered, removing financial worries around healthcare.
Our team benefits from:
- 24/7 Employee Assistance Helpline: Access to confidential support for personal or professional concerns, with options for face-to-face counseling.
- Therapy Treatments: Coverage for treatments such as physiotherapy, helping our employees stay physically well and reduce stress.
- Virtual GP Consultations: Convenient access to medical advice anytime, anywhere.
- Exclusive Discounts: Thousands of discounts through Medicash Extras, easing the cost of everyday purchases.
- Additional Health Services: Tools like SkinVision for early skin cancer detection, Phio for digital physiotherapy, and the mProve YOURSELF app for mental health support.
These benefits ensure that our employees have the resources to take care of both their mental and physical health, creating a solid foundation for wellbeing.
2. Open and Transparent Communication
At Step Up Support, we believe that communication is key to building a supportive and positive workplace. We encourage open dialogue and regularly seek feedback from our team, ensuring that every voice is heard. This culture of transparency builds trust and connection, making it easier for employees to express concerns, share ideas, and collaborate effectively.
Creating an open and supportive workplace is essential to promoting mental health. We encourage employees to speak openly about their mental health, without fear of stigma or judgment. By normalising these conversations, we aim to remove the barriers that often prevent people from seeking the support they need.
3. Boosting Mental Wellbeing through Recognition
On World Mental Health Day 2024, it’s important to remember that fostering mental wellbeing in the workplace goes beyond formal support structures – it also means acknowledging and celebrating everyday successes. At Step Up Support, we make it a priority to recognise and celebrate our team’s achievements. These celebrations play a crucial role in boosting morale and maintaining a positive mindset.
Recognising accomplishments not only motivates our team but also contributes to their sense of purpose and job satisfaction, which are vital to mental health. By celebrating both big and small victories, we remind our employees that their contributions are valued, and that they are making a meaningful impact.
4. Creating an Inclusive and Positive Culture
Mental health thrives in environments where individuals feel safe, valued, and included. We are committed to creating a positive and inclusive workplace where every employee can bring their whole selves to work. Inclusivity is not just a policy for us – it’s the foundation of a mentally healthy workplace.
By embracing diversity and cultivating a culture where everyone’s voice is respected, we foster collaboration, creativity, and most importantly, a sense of belonging. For us, creating this kind of positive environment is essential to supporting mental health, as it reduces stress, anxiety, and feelings of isolation, which are key focus areas on World Mental Health Day.
The Ripple Effect of Workplace Wellbeing
We know that by prioritising mental health in the workplace, our support workers are able to provide the best levels of help and guidance to the young people that Step Up supports.
For our support workers, feeling mentally well and supported directly influences the quality of care they provide. Their roles are challenging and often emotionally demanding, as they work closely with young people who face a variety of circumstances. By ensuring our staff have access to mental health resources, a supportive work environment, and opportunities for personal growth, we empower them to bring their best selves to work every day.
World Mental Health Day is a reminder that we are all part of a larger effort to improve global mental health. By taking steps to support mental wellbeing in the workplace, we are contributing to a healthier, happier future for all.
