HOUSTON – The American Psychological Association said more than one in five people believe their work environment has harmed their mental health.
Mental Health America of Greater Houston (MHA Houston) recently won an award that all corporations can qualify and strive for, The Bell Seal, which recognizes mentally healthy workplaces.
According to MHA of Greater Houston President Renae Vania Tomczak, creating a mentally safe space begins with modeling self-care.
“It really shows your employees the value that you place and the understanding you have for simply being human,” Tomczak said.
Here are some of the benefits that help them achieve that:
- Paid time off
- Relaxation space in the office (think of using a closet as a relaxation room or setting up an aromatherapy station)
- Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) can also provide free therapy and other benefits.
“We’re a small organization. We’re a not-for-profit, right? This is a fairly low-cost way to do that; and again, it really shows your employees that you really value their mental health,” Tomczak said. “You have to ask them questions. When you do your annual survey every year, make sure you put some questions in around mental health and then take those ideas, take that information and develop support around it. The return on investment is priceless.”
MHA provides resources on mental health help and can also counsel organizations and corporations on how to provide a mentally healthy work environment. E-mail them at: info@MHAHouston.org