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Mental well-being concerns can lead to increased absenteeism from work. Workers with “fair or poor” mental health have nearly five times more unplanned absences from work than their colleagues with “good, very good, or excellent” mental health, according to a 2022 Gallup survey. Individuals may take time off to address their or a family member’s mental health concerns or experience difficulties attending work regularly due to symptoms such as anxiety, depression, or stress.  

Even when individuals with mental well-being concerns are physically present at work, productivity may be diminished, with the employee focused on outside-of-work stressors.  

Workplace stress can also contribute to developing or exacerbating mental health conditions. Excessive work demands, long hours, a lack of autonomy, poor relationships with colleagues or supervisors, and job insecurity are some factors that can lead to work-related stress. These stressors, in turn, can negatively impact an individual’s mental well-being and productivity. 

An often-overlooked concern is cognitive impairments related to mental health. Certain mental well-being conditions can impair cognitive abilities, such as memory, attention, and problem-solving skills, making it challenging for individuals to effectively perform tasks, absorb information, and make decisions, thus affecting their overall performance. 

Mental health concerns can affect relationships with colleagues, supervisors, and clients. Difficulties in communication, social interactions, or emotional regulation can lead to conflicts or strained relationships, harming teamwork, collaboration, and the overall work environment. 

Reduced engagement and motivation at work may be impacted. When individuals struggle with their mental well-being, they may feel demotivated, disengaged, and detached from their work responsibilities, leading to decreased efficiency at work. 

Additionally, mental health challenges can have a cascading effect on an individual’s overall well-being, including physical and emotional health. Overall health can worsen, potentially leading to more severe symptoms, increased time off work, and long-term productivity decline. 

Employers can, when appropriate, offer flexible work arrangements, such as remote work, flexible hours, or compressed workweeks, to accommodate employees’ mental health needs. These arrangements can help reduce stress, improve work-life balance, and provide opportunities for self-care. 

Consider educational lunch-and-learn sessions or workshops to raise awareness about mental health issues and reduce stigma. These programs educate employees on recognizing signs of mental health situations, promoting self-care, and creating a supportive work environment. 

Establishing peer support networks or employee resource groups focused on mental health can create a sense of community and provide a safe space for employees to connect, share experiences, and support one another.