Why is employee mental health support essential for employers to have a productive and successful workplace? New Zealand businesses are finding that mental health and well-being in employees have a significant impact on performance, absenteeism, and overall workplace morale. Providing available and professional support enhances team functioning and company culture, as well as individual resilience, and is essential to employers.
The Impact of Mental Health on Businesses
Let’s look at why mental health support for employees is essential for employers. The New Zealand Mental Health Foundation says that work-related stress and mental health are some of the leading reasons for lost productivity and absenteeism. Research has shown that poor mental health costs New Zealand businesses billions of dollars in lost productivity annually. Employees who have high levels of stress or anxiety are more likely to take sick leave, disengage from work, or even resign from their jobs.
By prioritizing mental health care, employers can avoid many of these issues. Companies that actively promote mental well-being have a healthier and more productive workforce. This generates innovation and efficiency. Not only does this result in cost savings, but it also enhances the reputation of a business as a responsible and caring employer. This can be a powerful incentive for attracting and retaining the best staff.
The Employer’s Role in Supporting Mental Health
As an employer, making mental health services available to employees is not only the right thing to do—it’s good business. Companies that invest in employee mental health have higher job satisfaction, reduced turnover, and increased engagement. A well-supported employee is more likely to be present, engaged, and innovative in the workplace, contributing to overall company success.
Employers can also make a positive contribution by establishing a workplace environment that is concerned with mental health. This can be achieved by providing flexible work arrangements, mental health training for managers, and professional support programs. In New Zealand, there are high-performing businesses that have built whole-business mental health initiatives. These programs show a good lead on how to assist employees positively.
The Business Case for Investing in Employee Well-Being
Providing mental health services isn’t just doing the right thing for a positive workplace culture—there are also tangible financial rewards to be gained. Studies show that for every dollar invested in workplace mental health initiatives, businesses achieve a return on productivity. There is also a reduced cost from turnover and absenteeism.
New Zealand businesses that have implemented mental health support initiatives have seen great advantages in employee motivation and overall morale. For example, companies with such initiatives have seen reduced absenteeism related to stress. Enhanced job performance was also noted throughout. When employees are well taken care of, they are in a better position to support fellow workers constructively. This promotes teamwork and collaboration.
Introducing Success Group Thrive 360
At Success Group, we understand the importance of offering dedicated support to employees. Especially to those who are experiencing difficult situations or need someone to hear them out. That is why we offer Success Group Thrive 360, a professional support program offered by an NZAC-registered counsellor. This assistance is designed to help employees manage stress, workplace issues, and personal challenges. This will make them feel valued and supported in both their work and personal lives.
With Success Group Thrive 360, businesses can create a healthier, more resilient workforce. This ultimately results in a more productive, positive work environment. Mental well-being is not merely about compliance or obligation—it’s making the workplace one in which employees can truly thrive.
Now that we understand why mental health support for employees is essential for employers, Success Group Thrive 360 is on hand to help.
