Supporting Mental Health in the Workplace: Best Practices for Employers

Lisa Dewberry
May 21
4 min read

Updated: Jun 3

Two people converse at a round table in a modern office with large plants. Warm lighting from overhead lamps creates a cozy atmosphere. — Mental health isn't just personal—it's a business priority that drives performance, loyalty, and innovation. PHOTO: Kindel Media

Mental health is no longer a personal issue—it’s a business imperative. As awareness around psychological well-being grows, employers across all industries are recognizing the need to take meaningful action. The modern workplace must not only be a space of productivity and innovation but also one of compassion, flexibility, and emotional support.

Employees are increasingly seeking environments where their mental health is acknowledged and supported. And for good reason: when mental well-being is prioritized, individuals perform better, collaborate more effectively, and remain more loyal to their organizations.

Why Mental Health Matters at Work

According to the World Health Organization, depression and anxiety cost the global economy an estimated $1 trillion USD (€920 billion) each year in lost productivity. This staggering figure reflects reduced performance, absenteeism, and presenteeism (working while unwell), all of which have long-term consequences for business success.

Beyond the financials, ignoring mental health in the workplace can result in low morale, strained team dynamics, high turnover, and a damaged employer brand. On the flip side, organizations that invest in mental wellness see improved engagement, better performance, and a culture of trust.

Understanding the Root Causes

Before diving into best practices, it’s important to understand the workplace factors that can negatively impact mental health:

Excessive workloads
Lack of autonomy or control
Toxic management or peer relationships
Unclear roles and expectations
Limited opportunities for growth
Job insecurity or unstable contracts

By recognizing these triggers, employers can proactively build systems that promote mental well-being rather than respond reactively to crises.

When mental wellness is part of your company’s core values, both people and performance thrive. PHOTO: Teona Swift

Best Practices for Employers

Here are some practical and effective strategies to foster a mentally healthy workplace:

1. Foster Open and Honest Communication Create an environment where mental health discussions are normalized and encouraged. This starts with leadership—when managers speak openly about their own challenges or support policies around mental health, it sets the tone for the whole organization.

Implement regular check-ins where employees can talk about how they’re doing—not just in terms of work, but emotionally and mentally. Psychological safety—the belief that it’s okay to be vulnerable without risk of judgment—is a foundation for mental well-being.

2. Provide Meaningful Access to Resources Offering an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a strong first step, but true support goes beyond a hotline. Consider providing:

On-demand therapy or coaching
Mental health days or personal leave
Mindfulness or stress-reduction workshops
Subsidized wellness apps (e.g., Headspace, Calm)
Clear information about how to access these resources confidentially

Ensure that managers and HR staff are well-informed and can confidently direct employees to the appropriate support.

3. Educate and Empower Leaders

Managers are often the first line of support when an employee is struggling—but many lack the training to navigate these conversations.

Invest in mental health first aid training, compassionate leadership workshops, or coaching for supervisors. Equip leaders with tools to recognize warning signs like burnout, isolation, or sudden changes in behaviour, and teach them how to respond empathetically and professionally.

4. Promote Work-Life Balance and Boundaries

Work-life balance isn’t just about time off—it’s about respecting boundaries. Organizations should:

Encourage employees to disconnect outside of work hours
Avoid a culture of overwork or glorified burnout
Offer flexible working arrangements where possible
Respect personal commitments and family responsibilities

Flexibility and autonomy have been repeatedly shown to improve mental well-being and increase employee satisfaction.

5. Design a Culture That Puts Wellness First

Creating a culture that values mental health requires intentionality. Consider these ideas:

Start meetings with a mental check-in or moment of mindfulness
Celebrate awareness days like Mental Health Week
Establish wellness champions within teams
Create quiet spaces or recharge rooms in physical office spaces

Even small gestures—like sending a “just checking in” email—can help employees feel seen and supported.

6. Recognize More Than Just Results

Performance is important, but how an employee gets there matters too. Recognize qualities like teamwork, resilience, problem-solving under pressure, and emotional intelligence. Celebrate growth—not just goals—and reward behaviors that align with a healthy, inclusive culture.

Creating a culture of well-being starts with respecting boundaries, fostering flexibility, and celebrating emotional intelligence. PHOTO: Darlene Alderson

Let’s Build a Healthier Workplace Together

At La Playa Media and Marketing, we understand that great ideas are born in environments where people feel safe, valued, and supported. Mental wellness is a key ingredient in driving creativity, connection, and meaningful impact—both internally and externally.

As a media and marketing agency, we help organizations not only tell powerful stories to the outside world but also live those values within. From strategic internal communications to crafting wellness-focused content campaigns, we’re here to help you build a thriving workplace culture that reflects your mission and values.

Are you ready to create a workplace where mental health is a priority, not an afterthought?

Let’s collaborate to design a culture that inspires well-being and brings out the best in your people.

📩 Contact us today to discover how La Playa Media and Marketing can help transform your workplace into one of empathy, balance, and sustained success.