Employees are constantly bombarded with negative news from television broadcasts to social media feeds, and the impact on mental health can be significant. Combined with work pressures, this can leave employees feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or disconnected. While large-scale programs and benefits are valuable, sometimes it’s the smaller, everyday actions that make the biggest difference. These simple but powerful practices can help create a supportive environment where employees feel seen, valued, and cared for.
1. Normalize conversations around mental health
Encourage open dialogue by including mental health in wellness discussions and leadership communications. When leaders talk about it, employees feel safer bringing it up.
2. Promote flexible work options
Even small levels of flexibility such as adjusted start times or occasional remote days can help employees balance work and personal needs, reducing stress.
3. Encourage regular breaks
Remind teams that taking short breaks is healthy, not a sign of slacking. Simple habits like stepping away from the desk or going for a walk can reduce burnout.
4. Train managers to spot warning signs
Equip supervisors with the skills to recognize when employees may be struggling and how to connect them with resources. Early intervention matters.
5. Foster social connection
Organize low-cost activities like team coffee chats, walking meetings, or “get to know you” icebreakers. Building relationships at work supports overall well-being.
6. Share available resources
Employees often don’t know what’s available through EAPs, wellness programs, or insurance. Regularly highlight these resources so they’re top of mind.
7. Respect boundaries
Encourage leaders to model healthy boundaries like not sending non-urgent emails after hours and empower employees to disconnect when the workday ends.
8. Recognize workloads
Acknowledging when a team is under pressure can make a difference. Sometimes just saying “I know this is a heavy lift, and I appreciate you” eases the weight.
9. Celebrate small wins
Recognition boosts morale and reminds employees that their contributions matter. A quick shout-out or note of thanks can have a lasting effect.
10. Lead with empathy
A culture of care starts at the top. Leaders who show understanding, listen actively, and support employees through challenges help create an environment where mental health is prioritized.
Supporting mental health doesn’t have to mean sweeping changes or costly programs. Small, intentional actions, especially in a world saturated with negative news, can build a workplace where employees feel valued, supported, and able to bring their best selves to work.
ASE Connect
Visit ASE’s Wellness Resources page for a comprehensive list of mental health resources for employers. Also, please join us for a webinar presented our partner, Workplace Wellness, on September 30th at 9:00 a.m. – From Burnout to Buy-In: Wellness Strategies to Energize Your Culture.