Blue Monday (observed on 20 January this year) is known to be one of the most challenging days for mental health, with approximately 40% of the workforce reporting that stress levels have significantly impacted their ability to work in the last year, according to IPSOS’s latest survey.
International SOS, the world’s leading health and security risk services company, has identified three of the most common mental health-related challenges reported by global workforces across industries over the past three years. They include:
- Anxiety disorders: Characterised by intense and excessive fear or distress, often accompanied by physical symptoms such as muscle tension and restlessness.
- Depressive disorders: Marked by persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, or loss of interest, depressive disorders can significantly affect an individual’s emotional, behavioural, and physical health.
- Panic disorders: Involving recurring, unexpected panic attacks and ongoing worry about when the next episode might occur.
WORKPLACE MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS
For employees managing mental health conditions, meaningful employment plays a critical role in recovery, boosting social inclusion, self-confidence, and interpersonal functioning. Research suggests that work can have a greater positive impact on mental health than traditional psychiatric treatments alone.
However, prolonged workplace stress can elevate anxiety-inducing hormones, leading to fatigue, burnout, and diminished job satisfaction. Without adequate mental health support, these conditions may severely hinder employees’ self-esteem and ability to thrive professionally.
“January and the start of a new year can be especially difficult for many. The post-holiday blues, readjusting to work routines and harsh winter weather can exacerbate mental health struggles. Blue Monday is a wake-up call for organisations to prioritise mental health initiatives and foster a culture of wellbeing throughout the year,” explains Dr Rodrigo Rodriguez-Fernandez, Global Health Advisor for Wellness and Mental Health at International SOS. “Recognising the vital link between employee mental health, wellbeing, and organizational success is no longer optional. Alarmingly, around 15% of the global working-age population suffers from mental illness, with workplace stress contributing to physical and emotional challenges ranging from circulatory issues to gastrointestinal disorders.”
FIVE STRATEGIES FOR ADDRESSING WORKPLACE MENTAL HEALTH
The cost of ignoring mental health in the workplace is steep, both for employees and organizations. Addressing these challenges head-on not only enhances employee wellbeing but also boosts productivity, retention, and overall organisational success. By taking proactive measures now, businesses can create a resilient, healthy workforce prepared to tackle the challenges of the year ahead.
International SOS recommends the following actionable steps for organisations to mitigate stress and anxiety:
1. Foster supportive work environments
Build a workplace culture that encourages open communication. Provide safe spaces for employees to share stress-related concerns without fear of stigma or judgment.
2. Promote worklife balance
Implement flexible work arrangements and time-off policies tailored to employees’ mental health needs. Encourage regular breaks to maintain boundaries between work and personal life.
3. Conduct regular stress assessments
Use surveys, feedback sessions, and health screenings to measure workplace stress levels. Utilise the data to pinpoint stressors and craft targeted interventions.
4. Offer mental health resources
Invest in Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs) that provide accessible mental health services, such as counselling, stress management workshops and 24/7 hotlines.
5. Train managers in mental health first aid
Equip leadership with the skills to identify early signs of mental distress and offer support to affected employees. Training managers to handle mental health challenges creates a safety net for the workforce.
WORKFORCE WELLBEING
International SOS will host a Workforce Wellbeing training course on 20-21 January. This programme is designed to help organisational leaders develop the skills needed to create and implement effective mental health and wellbeing strategies. Click here to find out more.