The role of managers in creating mentally healthy workplaces

This guide shares evidence-based approaches managers can use to help build mentally healthy workplaces. It outlines ways managers can support healthy workplaces at the organisational as well as team level and offers guidance on how to protect their own mental health and wellbeing. 

Despite 90% of workers believing mental health is an important concern for organisations, fewer than 50% of workers think they work in a mentally healthy workplace. Not only do organisations have legal obligations related to work health and safety, but by intentionally building mentally healthy workplaces, managers can improve job satisfaction, worker loyalty and return on investment, while decreasing unplanned leave, turnover, and occupational injuries and illnesses. 

Key takeaways

• Many hazards and risks in the workplace can negatively impact mental health. 
• All workplaces have legal obligations related to workplace health and safety, which includes psychological health.
• By identifying hazards and risks in the workplace, managers can put plans in place to manage and minimise them, creating a better work environment for yourself and your team.
• Building strong relationships with team members as individuals, rather than just as workers, supports their mental health and provides a safe and positive environment within the workplace.
• For every dollar spent on developing a mentally healthy workplace, businesses will see a positive return on investment of approximately $2.30.