Last week, the WCWI Community and Metro Milwaukee SHRM members gathered for an impactful discussion on mental health for HR professionals. During the session, Mental Health America-Lakeshore and NAMI Southeast Wisconsin, WCWI's community partners, shared insights on the business case for implementing workplace policies, procedures, and initiatives to support employees and their families' mental health. One of the policies discussed was related to returning to work after a suicide attempt. This is a growing concern in organizations across Wisconsin, and as wellbeing professionals, it's our responsibility to act on this urgent call for support.

Attendees had the opportunity to connect with Wisconsin organizations like the Wisconsin LGBT Chamber of Commerce, Rogers Behavioral Health, The Real Good Life, Vesta Senior Network, and Employee Resource Center. They shared ideas and resources for workplace wellbeing strategies, further amplifying the importance of prioritizing mental health in the workplace.

The discussion also emphasized the importance of creating a culture of psychological safety in the workplace. This means that employees should feel comfortable speaking up about their mental health concerns without fear of stigma or retaliation. As HR professionals, we play a vital role in creating this culture by fostering open communication and destigmatizing mental health issues.

Another key takeaway from the discussion was the need for training and education around mental health for HR professionals. This includes learning about the signs and symptoms of mental health issues, as well as how to provide support and resources to employees who may be struggling. By equipping ourselves with this knowledge, we can better serve our employees and create a more supportive and inclusive workplace.

Overall, the mental health discussion was a valuable opportunity for HR professionals to come together and learn about the importance of prioritizing mental health in the workplace. As we continue to navigate the ongoing challenges of the pandemic, it's more important than ever to prioritize the wellbeing of our employees and create a workplace culture that supports mental health.

Learn More

Jessica Lehman