May is Mental Health Awareness Month and it’s a particularly fitting time to acknowledge that in recent years, we’ve all become more aware of the importance of mental health and self care. Mental health issues have been a major challenge for people throughout the world. People have been struggling with anxiety, depression, and distress due to a variety of reasons. Amidst this, self-care has become increasingly important. We are seeing a push towards prioritizing self-care, especially in the workspace. The impact of this approach is mutually beneficial for employers and employees.  How?

1) Reduces stress: Employers, as well as employees, experience stress. Work can be demanding and can cause immense pressure. In such circumstances, it’s essential to take some time to unwind and relax. Self-care practices, such as exercising, meditation, and reading, can help reduce stress levels. By practicing self-care, employers can ensure that their staff remains motivated and performs effectively.

2) Prevents burnout: Employees that continuously overexert themselves can face burnout. Burnout is a state of fatigue that leaves people feeling exhausted, unmotivated, and overwhelmed. By prioritizing self-care, employers can prevent burnout by promoting rest. For example, allowing employees to take breaks, work fewer hours, or take vacations, can all help to decrease burnout. This practice will improve productivity and positively impact the workspace.

3) Boosts morale: Self-care practices promote a positive outlook. When employees are appreciated beyond their work output, they can feel more valued. By implementing self-care, employers can create a culture of appreciation. It can make employees feel more valued and recognized, and enhance their professional experiences.

4) Improves mental health: By taking care of their mental well-being, employees can feel safer and more fulfilled in their lives. Employers who promote self-care are showing that they are committed to the mental health of their employees. Practices like offering counselling sessions, support groups, and mindfulness exercises can help employees cope with challenges and maintain their mental well-being.

5) Creates a productive workspace: A workspace that promotes self-care has more motivated employees. Employees that feel good about themselves are more likely to work hard. Moreover, they’re less likely to quit their jobs because of dissatisfaction. Employers who care about their employees’ work experience will ultimately benefit from satisfied workers who are motivated to produce quality work.

Self-care is not just an individual responsibility but a collective responsibility shared by employers and employees. Creating a workspace culture that values mental and emotional health is essential to maintaining a positive workspace. The stigmatization surrounding mental health is slowly dissolving, and people are becoming more open to talking about it. Therefore, this year’s Mental Health Awareness Month should serve as a reminder to individuals and corporations to commit to investing in self-care practices. It will lead to happier, healthier, and more satisfied employees, as well as more productive and effective businesses. Remember, by taking care of your employees, you’re taking care of your business as well.