Creating communications excellence

In today’s workplaces mental health is more important than ever – whether driven by generational shifts, increased awareness or the impact of the pandemic. A recent study by the Resolution Foundation found that one in three 18- to 24-year-olds now report symptoms indicating they have experienced a common mental health problem, such as depression or anxiety disorder. So as Gen Z are coming into the workplace, there is a greater need for a holistic approach to employee well-being as part of a modern and empathetic approach to people management.

Line managers play a pivotal role. Their influence extends far beyond task assignments and they really are at the frontline of supporting and recognising mental health needs of their teams. A supportive line manager can foster a positive work environment, while an unsupportive one may inadvertently contribute to stress and anxiety.  Increasingly, good line managers must shift their approach to support general team well-being and also to adapt to differing neurodiverse ways of working. To cover all this, organisations must invest in training that empowers line managers to understand mental health issues, as well as provide appropriate support.

Of course, responsibility for creating a culture in which mental health is a priority shouldn’t lie with line managers, the organisation’s commitment should permeate from the leadership of the organisation, who must champion mental health initiatives and advocate for an organisational culture that values well-being and neurodiversity.

However, there is undeniably a delicate balance at play. We must acknowledge our role as employers to support the well-being of our people, but do so without overstepping boundaries or blurring lines. After all, we are employers, not mini-counsellors, and employees are adults who are capable of self-care. The key is to provide a positive and safe environment in which people feel able to share well-being concerns or neurodiversity challenges in the knowledge that they will receive resources and support from their employers.

Rebecca Hall is Group HR Director at Virgo Health.