Ways To Support Mental Health in a Remote Workplace

Ways to support mental health in a remote workplace

While remote employees may be able to avoid the exhausting morning commute and the rigid working models, they are vulnerable to something equally dreading — the feelings of isolation.

Numbers don’t lie: In a cross industry survey, over a third of remote workers said the setup made them feel lonely due to a lack of connection to their organisation. (Source: Glassdoor)

Why it matters: For every effort you invest in creating a mentally sound workplace, it is followed by four times improved productivity.(Source: Fowmedia)
Lower absenteeism, improved engagement, and greater retention aside — better communication and collaboration are the quickest tangible benefits organisations can seek.

Mental Health in a Remote Workplace
Why and how.
Fast Facts:
48% of remote workers sense a lack of emotional support from their employers.
Only 30% of remote workers admitted to completely switching off from work on the weekends.
86% of remote employees experience burnout due to always “being near their devices”.
(Source: Zippia)
Despite the grim numbers, the situation is redeemable.
  • Walk the talk 

In the same way, you share training materials and meeting agendas, workplace mental health is a topic that demands awareness. There are self management programs and life coaching workshops that not only educate but also assist to dial down the stigma. Begin by sharing information and encouraging the culture of registering employees to these programs as part of their CTC. 

  • A step ahead: A dedicated management team

Ask your people and they might be thrilled at the idea of receiving one less HR letter but they would wholeheartedly welcome a solution mail that addresses mental health. Appointing a dedicated team is a brilliant step. Besides great motivational speeches, the team must be equipped with a mental health kit. It should contain resources, handbooks, a directory of professionals, and self-assessment tools to recognise and respond to red flags. 

  • Normalise conversations
As an organisation, the more receptive you are to your employees’ concerns, the more they feel empowered to speak out. Think of it this way — Are your employees upfront about their personal goals? Are you comfortable sending anonymous surveys to know about your employees’ state? Have you tried including well-being metrics in overall performance targets?

The easter eggs: There’s no “one-size-fits-all” when it comes to keeping your remote employees happy. Try a bespoke approach, experiment with a few of these ideas, and see what resonates with your people.

  • Setting healthy boundaries 
  • Allowing no-sick leave
  • Gratitude for small accomplishments
  • Encouraging remote socialising

Self care is the biggest business strategy in 2023. We shall leave you to introspect.

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