In order to attract and retain talent, small business owners must make employees' mental wellbeing a priority. However, we know there is no silver bullet to addressing mental health challenges. Rather, it requires that holistic approach I mentioned earlier, that includes:

Health benefits that incorporate coverage for mental health conditions, so employees know that their employers value their mental wellbeing both at work and in their personal lives.
Supplemental insurance to help with the out-of-pocket expenses related to mental health care and to protect your income if you're unable to work. Financial restraints can negatively affect your health and shouldn't add to the stressors that come with seeking care for physical and mental health concerns.
Other perks that promote mental health (telemedicine, yoga classes, meditation app, etc.), which can make health care more accessible and add proactive measures to help employees to take control of their health.
Workplace policies that promote mental wellbeing (flexible work environments, no email after hours, mandatory vacation days, etc.). Ensuring this is the standard and not the exception across organizations will allow employees to feel that their employers value their time and mental energy.
Creating an environment in which employees feel comfortable discussing mental health concerns, with leaders setting the example. It's no longer off limits to have these discussions at work. We know that people are not robots; feelings and emotions are valid and should be encouraged in the workplace so there are no questions as to how an employee may feel when it comes to their mental health.
Encouraging managers to be intentional about checking in with their direct reports in an authentic manner. Being a manager is not simply about monitoring performance and what direct reports are doing; it's also about monitoring how they are feeling and understanding where managers may be able to step in to help direct reports in finding the resources they need.

Instant Insights /

When it comes to supporting employees' mental health, words matter, but actions matter more

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