Mental health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, yet men often face barriers when it comes to seeking help and building a support system. The fact that we spend a significant portion of our lives at work, often 50 or more hours a week, highlights the importance of addressing the crisis in men's mental health within the workplace. Employers have a significant responsibility to partner in this effort by building support systems for their male employees.
The Traditional Approach is Not Working
In an article from HRdive.com entitled The unspoken crisis in men’s mental health — and how employers can help we read that, in October of last year, a mental health program shared alarming survey results: Nearly half of the respondents — all of whom were men aged 18 or older — scored above the threshold for probable major depression. The study, conducted by HeadsUpGuys, in connection with the University of British Columbia and Community Savings Credit Union, sought input from men living and working in Canada, but the results are reflective of the global mental health crisis among men.
For many men, the traditional approach to addressing mental health is not working. The cultural stereotype of the "strong and silent" man who does not show vulnerability or seek help is still prevalent in many workplaces. This stereotype can be detrimental to men's mental health, as it can prevent them from seeking help and building a support system.
Employers Can Help
Employers have a crucial role to play in addressing the crisis in men's mental health and building support systems for their male employees. Employers can start by creating a culture of openness and vulnerability in the workplace. This can be achieved by breaking down the stereotypes and stigmas associated with men's mental health and promoting conversations about mental health. Employers can also provide resources and support for employees who are struggling with their mental health.
Some specific actions employers can take include:
Encouraging open communication and conversations about mental health in the workplace.
Offering employee assistance programs (EAPs) that provide counseling and therapy services.
Providing training for managers and supervisors on how to recognize and support employees who are struggling with their mental health.
Offering flexible work arrangements and time off for employees who need to take care of their mental health.
Encouraging employees to take time off for therapy and counseling, and removing the stigma around doing so.
Creating a safe and confidential space for employees to discuss their mental health.
Employers can also play a role in addressing the broader societal issues that contribute to the crisis in men's mental health. This includes promoting healthy and positive masculinity, and providing education and resources for employees on mental health and wellness.
Conclusion
The crisis in men's mental health is a pressing issue that requires immediate attention. Employers can play a crucial role in addressing this crisis and building support systems for their male employees. By creating a culture of openness and vulnerability in the workplace, providing resources and support, and promoting healthy masculinity, employers can help their male employees prioritize their mental health and build a strong support system.
As men, we need to start having conversations about mental health and breaking down the stereotypes and stigmas associated with men's mental health. By doing so, we can create an environment where men feel comfortable seeking help and prioritizing their mental health. It's time for employers to step up and play their part in addressing the crisis in men's mental health. Thanks for reading and, as always, make sure to impact someone in a positive way today.
John
About the Author:
John Lockman is passionate about promoting men's mental health. Having lost a family member to suicide at an early age, he is committed to raising awareness about the disproportionate number of men affected by this devastating issue. Through his own personal experiences and his website, www.thelockmanlounge.com, John hopes to help men think differently about how to prioritize their well-being and become more comfortable acknowledging and processing their feelings in a healthy way.
In addition to his passion for mental health advocacy, John also has almost two decades of experience in the business world. Most recently, he oversaw roughly 100 million dollars of annual revenue and was responsible for managing a team of 75 employees. In this role, John had a significant impact on customer service, profitability, employee retention, and marketplace growth. With his wealth of knowledge and experience, John is a seasoned professional with valuable insights to share.
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