By now, many people realize that social media is addictive. Moreover, for young workers (especially young women), the algorithms target them with videos about suicide, self-harming, and body image. Teens are growing into stressed-out, depressed, and anxious young adults. According to recent reporting, a major jump from 13% to 60% of teens reported having a ‘major depressive episode.’ As many leaders and managers see young people are very stressed, everyone has to prioritize mental health in the workplace.
We have a crisis on our hands. At a time in life when young people should be looking forward to the future, they’re highly concerned—and targeted. They worry about the planet, which is most certainly an existential threat. But, because anyone under 35 grew up with more intrusive digital mediums, there’s a lot of disconnection. And that leads to greater stress and even mental health issues. As a business leader, I think everyone has to look at this seriously and do their part to help support mental health in the workplace.
What’s happening with mental health?
I’m not a psychologist but a grandfather concerned about his grandchildren. I’m also a business owner who wants to support my team in every way possible, including mental health. From what I’ve learned, there are several reasons for increased anxiety, depression, and even suicide among the young.
1. Social media and mental health
Again, social media is addictive. Moreover, the way algorithms work is that they aim to keep you looking at social for as long as possible. So, if you happen to look at something about a particular topic or meme, social media will serve you plenty of it. Moreover, tech companies have no robust protections to protect people.
2. Economic disparity
The reality is that young people do face a much more significant amount of uncertainty than previous generations. For one, many have a very high student debt load. For another, many have experienced a tough time with the losses of jobs in the tech industry, which seemed full of plenty. With the rise of AI, you have to wonder if many job losses are permanent because white-collar jobs are affected by the current wave of automation.
3. Existential climate crisis
Everyone can see the effects of climate change, which is why green living is essential. Still, when you see extreme flooding, superstorm tornadoes, massive hurricanes, and scorching heatwaves become the norm rather than the exception, you’re right to be concerned. We all have a problem we must face, and we have to do more and better.
Providing Access to Mental Health Resources and Support
Those are just a few of the issues affecting the mental health of young workers. I would also add the fact that there’s a lot more interaction online as opposed to in-person. That’s why I always look to have my team in the office because those interactions matter and help promote wellness. People weren’t made to live in isolation.
Again, every leader and manager should pay attention to what’s happening around mental health. Moreover, if you want a productive and cohesive team, leaders have to do their part to support everyone, and especially young people who seem to carry a lot more of the stress, anxiety and depression. So, the next question is, how do you do it?
Tips for supporting mental health in the workplace
If you’re a business leader, you can take some actionable steps to support your team.
- Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs). Look into creating EAPs within your organization supporting mental wellness. Partner with mental health organizations and train your team on supporting mental health and wellness on your team.
- Provide flexibility if possible. Even if your team isn’t remote, you can help with work-life balance. If someone has an illness or needs personal time due to a significant personal issue, work to get the work done and support them.
- Time off and vacations. The brain needs space. So, support your team to take breaks, especially if they work in the office. Give them a relaxation area away from their desks. And make it a point to encourage vacations for mental health.
- Train managers. Supervisors play a vital role in supporting mental health. However, most aren’t trained to spot and recognize wellness issues. So, consider bringing in an expert to help you provide the correct guidance.
- Measure the resources. As we know, metrics are essential at work, including mental health. So, conduct employee surveys to understand what your team thinks helps them and what might be needed. Also, look at turnover and absenteeism for hints.
Everyone’s different with mental health and wellness
Finally, you have to remember that mental health and providing the right support aren’t one-size-fits-all. Just as different and unique every member of your team is as people, they might need varying resources and support. That’s why creating an environment where people can share and speak up is vital. Still, as uncomfortable as mental health in the workplace may be, it’s a meaningful conversation to have with your team on an ongoing basis.
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