7 Steps to Support Employee Mental Health - Sam Slade

7 Steps to Support Employee Mental Health - Sam Slade

After months of fear, isolation and trauma, nearly everyone has felt mental health effects of COVID-19. And workers are no exception. The ongoing pandemic has caused heightened levels of stress and anxiety among working Americans, with no sign of slowing down.

In fact, according to the Mental Health Index, the impacts of COVID-19 on employees continue to climb, with the risk of mental health conditions rising 48% in December compared to November.

Even though availability of COVID-19 vaccines signals a path forward, it’s important to continue to offer comprehensive support to employees whether they work remotely or on site. Here are some ways you can help your workers:

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1. Circulate information about your company’s Employee Assistance Plan and any mental health or counseling services available

2. Remind your employees about the mental health benefits included in their health insurance coverage

3. Maintain open communication and even share your own well-being challenges to show your vulnerability and let workers know they’re not alone in their struggles

4. Hold safe, socially-distant events to bring teams together or at least virtual gatherings to help foster a culture of connection

5. Encourage employees to get some physical activity and model healthy behaviors yourself like taking a walk at lunch

6. Be more flexible, for instance, by allowing workers to adjust their hours to take care of personal responsibilities like childcare or caregiving and trust them to do the work

7. Keep employees in the know with frequent communication about any work updates or changes, especially those who are working at home

Sam Slade is Managing Director, Employee Benefits, at The Hilb Group of New England, where he delivers consulting and brokerage services to local employers. He has extensive experience in all aspects of employee benefits, including underwriting, plan design, communications, compliance, and analytics, with a particular focus on alternative funding and self-insurance. Sam lives in South Kingstown with his wife and three sons.