Dealing with mental health in the team
The Problem Statement
Mental health in the workplace is no longer a side issue—it’s a core part of maintaining a healthy, engaged, and productive team. Employees today, especially younger generations, expect workplaces to take wellbeing seriously. Ignoring mental health or assuming people should “tough it out” is outdated thinking and can lead to burnout, high turnover, and decreased productivity.
The challenge for SME leaders is ensuring mental health is addressed with the same seriousness as any other workplace issue, while balancing the needs of individuals with the overall success of the business.
HR Best Practice
To foster a mentally healthy workplace, consider these best practices:
Create a Culture of Openness: Encourage employees to speak up about their mental health without fear of judgment or stigma.
Train Managers on Mental Health Awareness: Equip team leaders with the skills to recognise when someone is struggling and how to offer support appropriately.
Offer Practical Support: Whether through Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs), flexible work arrangements, or mental health days, providing tangible support shows genuine commitment.
Check-In Regularly: Normalise conversations about wellbeing through regular one-on-one meetings where employees feel safe discussing their struggles.
Lead by Example: If leaders model healthy work-life balance, prioritise wellbeing, and openly discuss mental health, employees are more likely to feel supported.
The Psychological Perspective
Understanding mental health at work requires a shift from seeing it as an individual problem to recognising it as a workplace culture issue.
Stress and Burnout are Contagious: A stressed leader or team member can influence the whole workplace dynamic.
Validation Matters: Simply acknowledging someone’s struggles can be a powerful step toward helping them feel supported.
Fairness and Inclusion are Key: Treating mental health concerns with the same seriousness as physical health ensures employees feel valued and respected.
Mental Health Affects Productivity: Supporting team members through their struggles leads to better engagement, retention, and overall job satisfaction.
Red Flags to Watch For
Be on the lookout for these signs that a team member might be struggling with their mental health:
Increased absenteeism or tardiness.
Changes in mood, energy levels, or interactions with colleagues.
Decreased motivation, engagement, or productivity.
Withdrawal from workplace social interactions or avoidance of responsibilities.
Expressions of feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or hopeless.
Conclusion
Mental health is as important as any other part of work life. By giving it the attention it deserves, SME leaders aren’t just helping individuals—they’re creating a healthier, more understanding, and ultimately more productive workplace. A culture of care benefits everyone, and the businesses that embrace this shift will be the ones that thrive.
No-one teaches this stuff, but at RegenerationHQ, we have the skills and capability to help you with this and a multitude of other small and large issues that can bedevil your business.