Leaders have a lot to manage. There are supportive conversations; annual performance reviews, day-to-day operations, and task delegation – to name a few. But one thing leaders have to sensitively navigate is employee wellbeing and mental health in the workplace. However, many may not know how to approach this conversation or feel comfortable supporting their team’s mental health.
Part of the reason for this can be that, sometimes, the conversations are complex and grey, not fitting easily into a binary or linear process. Also, leaders are not trained mental health professionals, and yet, often feel that they need to know how to support an employee’s wellbeing. But with a few tips – and some EAP support in Australia – leaders can effectively and proficiently navigate employee mental health and wellbeing. Here’s your managers guide on employee wellbeing and how you can support the shining stars in your team!
The Role of Leadership in Promoting Mental Wellbeing at Work
The workplace is like home to many of us. We spend so much of our time with our colleagues and leaders. So much so that they can become like a second family. Everyone has a moral obligation to support one another’s mental health. However, this often starts with leaders. Not to mention, leaders are responsible, along with the organisation and employees, for maintaining a psychosocially and psychologically safe workplace. Therefore, leaders play an integral role in promoting mental wellbeing at work in Australia.
According to a UKG report, featured in Forbes, 69% of workers believe their manager has a significant impact on their mental health. Now, that’s not to say it’s negative. In fact, managers were cited as playing a larger role in employees having flourishing wellbeing verses therapists and doctors (51% and 41% respectively). Taking this study as an example, it demonstrates the power of leaders. And that’s why part of a leader’s role is to lead the frontline in promoting positive workplace mental health and wellbeing programs. Think William Wallace screaming: “THEY’LL NEVER TAKE OUR… [EMPLOYEE’S MENTAL HEALTH]”. Overall, leaders have a major part to play in ensuring employees are mentally fit and resilient. This quote rings very true…
”“Wellness at work is a shared responsibility with leaders, managers, and employees all having a part to play. While employees are responsible for managing their own mental health, leadership must provide the right environment and resources to support them, ensuring a mentally healthy workplace for everyone.”
Learning Dimensions Network Australia
Recognising When Your Employees Need Mental Health Support — and How EAP Can Help
Employees who are experiencing mental health challenges in the workplace may not feel comfortable sharing their issues with their boss. Statistically, Diversity Council Australia reports that over 50% of Aussie workers would not disclose their mental health struggles with their employer. Why? Fear of discrimination, unequal opportunities, not wanting to be a burden, the list goes on. While you may believe that wouldn’t be the case in your team, it can be an obstacle that’s often missed. Therefore, being open, communicative, and warm will help to reduce these barriers. However, you can go a step further by watching out for, and recognising, the signs of poor mental health within your team. Here’s some signs:
- Fatigue, exhaustion, and tiredness
- Withdrawal from colleagues
- Increased isolation
- Over working
- Under performing
- Changes in mood and behaviour
- Increasingly absent (absenteeism)
- Lack of focus and concentration
- Frequently missing deadlines and increased stress
These are just some of the signs to look out for. When you encounter these signs, it takes a sensitive, tailored approach to ensure they’re okay and know that support is available. If you need support in how to have a mental health conversation, and we’re your workplace wellbeing provider in Australia, why not give our Manager Support service through Converge International a try! We can guide you through the process and equip you with effective strategies to enhance employee wellbeing and EAP engagement.
How Leaders Can Approach Supporting Employee Wellbeing
Now you know what to look out for, that’s just half the process. It’s now time to upskill and learn how to helpfully support your staff. Psychological and psychosocial safety and minimising mental health risks is a responsibility of leadership. As such, here is how you can do your part to support your colleagues…
- Check in, don’t just check up: If you suspect one of your team members is struggling with their mental health, ask them if they’re okay. It’s essential that you show empathy and recognise any challenges they might be experiencing. Use the ALEC method. Ask “are you okay?” Or “I’ve noticed that something does seem right, would you like to talk?” Listen actively by being attentive and affirming if your employee begins opening up. Encourage action by signposting them to your Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for confidential support. Finally, frequently check-in – this is one of the most important steps. Don’t bi-stand, if you suspect something is wrong, act!
- Promote open communication: Have an open-door policy so that your team know they can approach you when something isn’t right or if they need help. Early intervention is key and being caring and compassionate is paramount. So, if open communication is a known part of how you manage you can help your employees promptly and provide appropriate support and adjustments.
- Endorse work-life balance: Self-care is important. When employees look after their mental health, they can perform better, be more productive, and excel. So, promote the right to disconnect by supporting breaks and time away from the worksite and by discouraging late night emails and calls. That way, your employees can be well-rested, as well as helping you to promote a thriving mentally healthy workplace culture.
Practical Ways Leaders Can Build Mentally Healthy Teams
Simultaneously to the above, there are more ways you can build mentally healthy and resilient teams and the most important way is leading by example. When you as a leader take your breaks, act and communicate openly, and show empathy, your teams may feel more confident following suit.
Ultimately, the goal is to breakdown stigmas – which is easier said than done. However, there are ways you can help build positive work cultures.
Culture is the backbone of an organisation and the foundation on which a company is built. As a result, creating a culture where everyone feels safe and comfortable being vulnerable and open is key to a successful organisation. You may change someone’s perspective, get them the help they need, and of course, support your organisation in achieving its goals through workplace wellbeing programs in Australia
When Do Leaders Get the Support They Need: Manager Support with Converge EAP
We’ve talked abundantly in this article about you supporting your staff. However, it is also important you support yourself. Supporting staff members who are struggling with their mental wellbeing can potentially place a heavy toll on you. While you’ll want to support them through their challenges, you also need to safeguard your own mental health. That’s where EAP Australia comes in.
Through an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – such as Converge – you can access essential mental health and wellbeing services for leaders to ensure you’re also mentally fit and resilient. In addition to that, you can access manager support services in Australia, where you can be guided by an expert on how to support your colleagues.
At Converge, this is our Manager Support stream. If we’re your workplace wellbeing provider, book an appointment online or through the Converge App – for whatever challenges you’re facing. We’re always here to help, anytime, anywhere!
Don’t partner with Converge? Contact our team today and enquire about how we can support your oganisation!
Leader and Manager FAQs: Supporting Employee Mental Health with EAP Australia
What is EAP support for leaders in Australia?
EAP (Employee Assistance Program) support for leaders in Australia provides confidential guidance, coaching, and mental health support to help managers effectively navigate workplace challenges and employee wellbeing conversations. As well as, their own personal wellbeing.
How can leaders recognise when employees need mental health support?
Leaders can look for signs such as fatigue, withdrawal, absenteeism, and changes in behaviour. Recognising these signs early allows leaders to provide timely support through workplace EAP services.
Why is psychosocial safety important for Australian workplaces?
Psychosocial safety ensures that employees feel safe, respected, and supported when discussing mental health concerns. It’s a key aspect of creating a positive and mentally healthy workplace culture.
How can Converge help leaders support employee wellbeing?
Converge provides EAP and Manager Support services across Australia, helping leaders build skills, access guidance, and create resilient, mentally healthy teams.
Can leaders access EAP for their own mental health?
Yes. Leaders can use EAP services through Converge to access confidential counselling, resilience support, and wellbeing resources to maintain their own mental health and effectiveness. Check that we’re your workplace wellbeing provider before booking.
