2018 Pre-Conference Recap: Creating a Stigma-Free Workplace

• Help create a work culture that employees can be open to Voice/ talk about their mental health condition without judgement
  • Example strategy at the individual level: Using stigma-free language 
    • Avoid using “crazy”, “so bipolar”, “nuts”, “victim” --> Use “struggles with” or “survivor of…”
• Promote the Value of mental wellness to increase employee engagement
  • When employees feel valued, they are more likely to seek support and resources
  • Example strategy at the organizational level: equalize mental health and physical health initiatives (1:1 ratio)
    • Ensure Mental Health questions are included in your Health Risk Assessments; or include events promoting mental health awareness
• Employer leaders to be Vigilant in supporting employees in need and recognizing those in crisis
  • Example strategy at the organizational level: Train your managers (Avoid panic and save lives)
    • Ensure it is best practice & tailored to your industry’s culture

What’s next?

• Bridge the gap of awareness to action
• Include mental health initiative options in your 2019 wellness strategic planning meeting
• Work with the safety officer to begin a crisis protocol
• Review training options that fit best for your work culture/industry

Resources

• WCWI Well Practice: Sample Stress Management Policy 
• Calculate your company's lost productivity cost due to mental illness: APA Depression Calculator
• Calculate Mental Health ROI: Health and Work Performance Questionnaire (WHO)

Angeline Day, MPH, CHES