Mental Health in the Workplace: An HR Leader’s Guide

Mental Health in the Workplace: An HR Leader’s Guide

If you work in HR, take a moment of well-deserved applause. You’re managing compliance, benefits, hiring, onboarding and now, thanks to the pandemic, you’ve also become a point person for mental health in the workplace.

You didn’t ask to be a therapist, but you are often looked to as the emotional barometer of your organization. In 2020 and beyond, supporting employee wellbeing has become not only a priority but a necessity.

🔗 Explore how Capella helps companies support employee wellness

What Exactly Is Mental Health?

Mental health refers to how we think, feel, and act. It affects how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices, both at home and at work. With blurred lines between work and personal life, mental health in the workplace has become more visible and urgent.

Break the Stigma with Education and Empathy

Mental health still carries stigma, especially in work environments. As HR professionals, it’s your opportunity to normalize conversations through:

• Educational webinars or training sessions
• Leadership storytelling to show vulnerability
• Peer-led support groups or forums

📊 A study by the American Psychiatric Association found that only 32% of Baby Boomers feel comfortable discussing mental health, compared to 62% of Millennials. We have work to do!

🔗 Check out this mental health conversation toolkit from Mind Share Partners

Offer Accessible, Ongoing Resources

To support mental health in the workplace, make sure employees have access to tools that are easy to find and use:

1. Anonymous screening tools
   Try Mental Health America’s free online assessments

2. On-site or virtual therapist hours
   A weekly session available to all staff (even virtually) shows proactive care

3. Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)
   Promote them regularly, many employees don’t know what’s included in their benefits

4. Wellbeing Initiatives
   Fitness challenges, flexible hours, or even a digital detox day can improve overall staff health and reduce burnout

Lead by Example and Support Yourself, Too

As an HR leader, it’s easy to pour into others and forget to refill your own cup. But one of the best ways to build a mental-health-positive culture is to model it yourself:

• Take your own mental health days
• Set boundaries for working hours
• Share your experiences when appropriate
• Use the tools you offer to others

When your staff sees you valuing your own wellness, they’ll feel safer doing the same.