The role of managers in promoting mental health in the workplace

The role of managers in promoting mental health in the workplace: How excellent managers make the difference

Mental health is not a buzzword, but a central pillar of a successful company. While many companies are looking for the best methods to promote the mental health of their employees, it is often overlooked how crucial the role of managers is in this. Good leaders are not only supervisors, but also mentors, motivators, and supporters. They can make the difference between a stressful and a supportive work environment. But what makes for an outstanding manager when it comes to promoting mental health?

The importance of leadership for mental health

Leaders are key players when it comes to promoting mental health in the workplace. Your behaviours and decisions significantly influence the work environment and corporate culture. Here are a few reasons why the manager's role is so crucial:

1. Exemplary function: Managers who set an example of health-conscious behavior themselves set a standard for their employees. Your own ability to deal with stress and set healthy limits has a direct impact on the behavior of your employees.
2. cultural design: A manager who values mental health actively contributes to designing a supportive corporate culture at. This includes creating a work environment in which openness about psychological stress is promoted and not stigmatized.
3. Resource deployment: Good managers are not only responsible for the well-being of their employees, but also ensure that they have access to the necessary resources and support services.
4. Feedback and communication: Open communication channels and regular feedback are crucial for identifying and tackling problems at an early stage. Managers should actively promote dialogue about mental health and listen to their employees.

Differences from practice: What do good managers do differently?

In contrast to the status quo, which often only looks at mental health in a superficial way, excellent managers are characterized by a profound, holistic approach:

1. Proactive support instead of reactive measures: While many managers only take action when problems have already arisen, outstanding managers take on a proactive role. They recognize the signs of stress and overwork early on and offer timely support.
2. Customization of support: Good managers recognize that every employee has different needs. They offer customized support and resources that are tailored to the individual's specific challenges and requirements.
3. Integrating mental health into daily work: Instead of seeing mental health as just an additional task, excellent managers integrate it into everyday working life. They promote regular breaks, flexible working hours and healthy work practices as integral parts of the work environment.
4. Creating a climate of trust: Good managers build a relationship of trust in which employees feel safe sharing their mental challenges. This requires transparent and empathetic communication and an absence of prejudice or stigma.

Support from mentalport

mentalport helps managers take on a proactive and supportive role in the mental health of their employees. The platform offers extensive tools and resources to help managers effectively fulfill their role as mental health promoters:

• Individualized coaching programs: mentalport offers tailor-made coaching programs that train managers to develop their mental health support skills and support them in practical implementation — based on AI and even biofeedback via the mentalPORT app.
• Anonymous feedback and analysis: Through anonymous feedback, managers can gain valuable insights into the well-being of their employees and take targeted measures to improve working conditions.
• Access to resources and training: The platform provides comprehensive training and information materials that help leaders develop a deeper understanding of mental health and implement effective support strategies.
• Behavioral preventive measures: With the tools provided by mentalport, managers can preventive measures that are tailored to the individual needs of their employees and promote sustainable improvements in mental health.

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Photo by Bruce Mars upon Unsplash