Workplace stress is a growing problem that can take a toll on mental health, leading to problems such as anxiety, depression, and burnout among employees. These conditions can significantly impact work performance, leading to decreased productivity and job loss.
For many people trapped in this vicious cycle, work stress leads to poor mental health, which contributes to poor performance at work, causing more work stress, and so on. It's this cycle that makes it critical for employers to provide support for mental health in the workplace. By creating a healthy work environment where employees feel valued, appreciated, and supported in their mental health, employers can help reduce workplace stress and improve the team's overall well-being.
Keep reading to learn more about the relationship between work and mental health and several ways you can support your employees' mental health as an employer. 
<h2>How the Workplace Can Impact Mental Health</h2>
 Workplace stress has increased significantly in the past three decades. <a href="https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/stress/2020/report-october" rel="noopener" target="_blank">A recent study</a> by the American Psychological Association found that over half of all workers report that their job is very or extremely stressful. When workers are stressed, it impacts their ability to work efficiently and effectively, leading to poor job performance, absenteeism or presenteeism (when employees come to work but don't perform well), increased sick leave, and even loss of talent.
 Stress negatively impacts mental health, but <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5137920/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">chronic stress</a> has also been linked to physical health issues, increasing the risk of conditions such as:
<ul>
<li> Heart disease</li>
<li> Obesity</li>
<li> Diabetes</li>
</ul>
<h2> What Causes Workplace Stress?</h2>
 So, what causes stress in the workplace? It can be a combination of several things.
For some employees, it's a lack of resources and overwhelming responsibility. For others, it's a lack of work culture or flexibility in the role. Toxic work environments that limit internal growth or don't compensate their workers properly can also lead to the downfall of workplace mental health for many. <a href="https://gettinghired.com/candidate/registration" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/llEFXjcvQ2ed4Amvyw5D"></a> 
<h2>How Mental Health Issues Can Impact the Workplace</h2>
 Mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety, can significantly impact workplace productivity. Depression and anxiety alone cost employers an estimated 12 billion working days per year, adding up to nearly<a href="https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mental-health-at-work" rel="noopener" target="_blank"> $1 trillion in lost productivity</a> annually.
&nbsp;
Mental health issues can also lead to:
<ul>
<li> Decreased morale</li>
<li> Increased absenteeism</li>
<li> Extended periods of leave</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
Employers may also face costly legal action if they do not take reasonable steps to protect their employees from discrimination based on mental illness.
When your workers don't feel fulfilled, cared for, and supported by their employer and workplace, you'll feel that missing piece far beyond the individual employees. It begins to seep into the quality of work and eat into productive hours. 
<h2>Why Mental Health Support Is So Important in the Workplace</h2>
 Providing support for mental health in the workplace is essential for employers to ensure their workers are healthy, engaged, and productive.
Not only does mental health support help employees combat stress, but it also promotes a positive work culture that leads to increased job satisfaction and improved retention rates. It keeps workers feeling connected, valued, and appreciated instead of isolated from their peers or inadequate in their roles.
Employers should strive to create a psychologically safe space for their employees where everyone feels heard, respected, and free to express themselves. Ultimately, this freedom helps create an environment conducive to collaboration and productivity.
When you support mental health in the workplace, employers experience greater financial success and less turnover due to improved job satisfaction among employees. 
<h2>Ways To Support Mental Health in the Workplace</h2>
 Looking for ideas for ways to support your employees' mental health at work? Here are a few actionable tips: 
<h4> Robust Employee Assistance Program</h4>
Ensure your employees have access to the tools and support they need when it comes to managing their mental health by providing online or in-person counseling services, educational resources, and stress management programs.
The goal of employee assistance programs (EAP) is to support employees with issues that may be negatively impacting their well-being or job performance. It should cover a broad range of issues with various solutions, such as <a href="https://www.roarforgood.com/wireless-bluetooth-features" rel="noopener" target="_blank">wireless panic buttons</a> to alleviate stress about workplace violence or emergencies, legal support, counseling for work or relationship problems, and more. 
<h4> Wellness Spaces</h4>
Creating designated areas for employees to relax and destress throughout the day can help support their mental health. 
The space should be comfortable, with plenty of <a href="https://www.healthline.com/health/natural-light-benefits" rel="noopener" target="_blank">natural light</a>, seating, and a selection of activities such as puzzles or coloring books. It can also double as a space for team meetings or individual work sessions. Add plants and snacks for an extra boost. 
<h4> Regular Mental Health Check-Ins</h4>
Make mental health check-ins a priority by scheduling time for employees to talk one-on-one with their managers and voice any concerns or needs. You can schedule check-ins weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly, depending on the organization's size.
These conversations should be in a nonjudgmental and supportive environment that encourages open communication. Look at them as an opportunity for managers to actively listen and offer solutions or resources if needed.
Another great idea is to pair these check-ins with mental health days. Some companies are now offering free mental health days to their employees as needed, and adding a mental health check-in upon return to the office can help pinpoint issues to avoid in the future. 
<h4> Free or Subsidized Mental Health Treatment </h4>
Free or subsidized mental health treatment can take many forms, including the following:
<ul>
<li> Individual counseling sessions</li>
<li> Group therapy</li>
<li> <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/meditation/in-depth/meditation/art-20045858" rel="noopener" style="color: #34495e;" target="_blank">Meditation</a> or mindfulness classes</li>
</ul>
 By removing the financial barrier to seeking help, your employees are more likely to get the support they need. Making these services available to your employees will let them know that their mental health is valued and taken seriously. <a href="https://gettinghired.com/candidate/registration" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/9s3LstkGR9UDWr8aCaAE"></a> 
<h2>Final Thoughts: Making Mental Health Work Better for Work</h2>
 Mental health support should be considered a crucial part of any workplace if the organization truly wants to succeed.
By taking these steps, employers can help ensure that their employees are healthy and supported both physically and mentally, which, in turn, creates a positive work environment where everyone can succeed. 
<hr>
 Our inclusive employer partners are hiring and are looking for talent just like you! Align your skills, experience, and knowledge by registering <a href="https://www.careercircle.com/candidates/signup" rel="follow noopener" style="color: #34495e;" target="_blank" title="Register today">here</a>!

Explore the impact of workplace stress on mental health and strategies to improve employee well-being.

Mental Health in the Workplace: Why Support Is So Important | Getting Hired

Mental Health in the Workplace: Why Support Is So Important

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit our shores and many businesses had to transition to a remote workforce to stay afloat, it taught us that employees could work from home and still be as efficient as they were at the office. Now, with the pandemic mostly in our rearview mirror, companies in many different industries are <a href="https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/real-estate/our-insights/americans-are-embracing-flexible-work-and-they-want-more-of-it" rel="noopener" target="_blank">sticking with their remote workforce</a> in this new world of business.
&nbsp;
Now, many employees only want to work for a company if they can do so in a remote capacity. However, there is a lot of competition out there, so you will need to prove to potential jobs that you have a proper work environment and that you can work independently to help their company succeed. Let&rsquo;s talk about how to land the dream, in-demand remote job. 
<h3>1. Realize the Benefits of Remote Work</h3>
Even before you think about what you can do for another company, you should consider the benefits of working remotely for your body and soul. Even the fact that you can skip the morning commute is essential for your mental health. These days, the average commute takes about 28 minutes, and there can be a lot of stop-and-go traffic and stressful moments during that drive, which leaves you feeling anxious once you get to work. It is also <a href="https://www.zocdoc.com/blog/how-bad-is-commuting-for-your-mental-and-physical-health/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">not healthy to commute</a> and sit down for that long without some activity. 
&nbsp;
When you work from home, you can also find a better work-life balance, which is essential for minimizing your stress. You can take the time on your breaks and lunches to walk around the block, breathe in some fresh air, and return to work feeling mentally refreshed. It is not always so easy to do that when working out of a corporate office. 
<h3>2. Create a Productive Workspace</h3>
The next thing that you need to do is to create a productive workspace so you can assure your next potential employer that you can work efficiently without distraction. In addition to a chair that provides proper posture, consider adding a standing desk that will keep you alert and energized throughout the day. Also, make sure there is plenty of natural light for that essential vitamin D.
&nbsp;
Your home office should also be free of distractions. That means that you keep the television off except when on break, and you find a quiet part of the house where you won&rsquo;t hear music or family members talking through the walls. If an interviewer asks about your work arrangements at home, then you already have this space set up so you can answer accordingly. 
<h3>3. Prove That You Can Solve Problems on Your Own</h3>
Employers know that many employees require a lot of handholding in order to complete their work, which would make them unfit for a remote job where management depends on employees to solve problems on their own. You can prove that you are right for the job by explaining to the interviewer different times in the past when you have solved problems while working remotely or independently. Make sure to emphasize the results of your efforts.
&nbsp;
You could further impress the interviewer by explaining exactly how you go about solving problems in the workplace. Consider demonstrating a <a href="https://business.adobe.com/blog/basics/what-is-root-cause-analysis" rel="noopener" target="_blank">root cause analysis</a>, where you get to the root of an issue, like a decrease in sales, and find a way to solve that deficiency. Explain how once you have several possible root causes for the issue, you can come up with a solution for each, try each one out, and then monitor the results to see what works. If you are able to show that level of problem-solving prowess, then you likely have no problem showing your worth as a remote employee. 
<h3>4. Explain Your Remote Experience on Your Resume</h3>
You can also give potential employers a hint that you are remote-ready before you even show up by adding some information to your resume. For instance, in the accomplishments section of a previous job, you can write that you helped increase sales or improved customer satisfaction and that you did so when working from home. That way, they can see that you have a proven track record of working remotely. If you don&rsquo;t have remote experience, think of times that you have worked independently or used tech to help you accomplish your work goals.
&nbsp;
You can also prove your worth in your skills section by mentioning skills that are essential in a remote setting, including time management and work ethic. Plus, you can list the fact that you are a self-starter, tech-savvy, and reliable. It&rsquo;s always wise to mention in your objectives section that you are looking to thrive in a remote work environment. 
<h3>5. Prepare for Remote Interviews</h3>
Finally, you can show that you are capable of using technology and being responsible during your remote interviews. Many HR teams will have the initial interview over the internet, so you can use this chance to prove that you are familiar with a remote setup. Do that by being on time with no technical hiccups, having a professional video background, and dressing professionally. This will prove that you have experience working from home and you can do it well with this new company.
&nbsp;
As you can see, there are several steps that you can take to nail your next interview and land a remote job. Heed this advice, and you&rsquo;ll find the job you desire.
&nbsp;
Content Contributor:
Ainsley Lawrence is a freelance writer from the Pacific Northwest. She is interested in better living through technology and education. She loves traveling to beautiful places and is frequently lost in a good book. <img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/MYz0soLESTW1Mrmgzt7E" width="204" height="204">

Learn how to land your dream remote job with these essential tips for success in the new work era.

Tips for Landing a Remote Job | Getting Hired

Tips for Landing a Remote Job

Taking a new job is exciting, but moving to a new location can be daunting. With some preparation, you can find the perfect place to live that meets all your needs. Here is some general advice to get you started. 
<h2>Research the New Location</h2>
Before you agree to anything, you need to ensure that the new location fits your family. You must investigate the area via internet research, conversations with your future co-workers, and visits. 
<ul>
<li>Schools</li>
</ul>
Find out all you can about the new school district, its reputation, and where the <a href="https://www.publicschoolreview.com/top-ranked-public-schools">new school system</a> ranks within the state for educational excellence. Visit schools your kids will be attending. Get a sense of the institution and its management. 
<ul>
<li>Taxes</li>
</ul>
Look into what local and state taxes you will be responsible for paying. In some states, the salary increase you get will be negated by the taxes you owe. Make sure, before you commit, you have a good sense of where you will end up financially if you move forward. 
<ul>
<li>Cost of Living</li>
</ul>
The cost of living in an area can be a deal killer. If, for example, you are moving from <a href="https://www.bestplaces.net/cost-of-living/oklahoma-city-ok/new-york-ny/150000" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Oklahoma to New York City</a>, you should assume you will need to make more than double what you are currently making to break even. 
<ul>
<li>Real Estate Market</li>
</ul>
Investigate the local real estate market and understand what it will cost you to buy a home, rent, or find an alternative living arrangement. Look at resale prices for that market and use that information to look for housing where you know you can resell if you need to do so. If you rent, look at average rents and use that information to determine where to look. 
<ul>
<li>Crime</li>
</ul>
Search online and find the crime statistics for the town or city you will be relocating. Pay attention to any neighborhood crime assessments and any trends in reported crimes. Crime statistics will help you decide where to live and give you a general idea of areas you may want to avoid. 
<ul>
<li>Local Job Market</li>
</ul>
If you have a spouse or kids that work, you want to investigate the <a href="https://www.thejobnetwork.com/top-8-tools-salary-research-012017/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">local job market</a>. Make sure you are moving to an area that will allow your spouse to work in their field easily. It makes no sense to increase one spouse's employment if the other has to take a huge hit in salary or benefits. 
<ul>
<li>Average Commute Time</li>
</ul>
Speaking of commuting time, how about your commute? Can you easily get from your new home to your job, or will there be significant traffic issues that affect when you have to leave and when you can expect to be home? If there are commuting challenges, does it make more sense to look to live closer to work or in a different location? 
<ul>
<li>Check Out Amenities and Services</li>
</ul>
Research what local amenities and services exist in your new location and find out the following:
Are there parks? Where are the supermarkets? What is there to do during the week and weekend? Does the new place have the type of church you want to frequent (if you are religious) How about hospitals and Urgent Care?
Identify the services you use in your current location and activities you like to do and investigate if both are available at your new location. If the answer is "no," you will likely still take the job, but you might tailor your living location to your interests and needs. 
<h2>Visit and Look at Housing</h2>
Once you have locked down the area where you want to live generally, look at the housing options in those areas. Take a weekend if you can and spend it looking at properties. A weekend trip will not only help you find your ideal living space, but it will also give you a good sense of the area you want to live. 
<h2>Decide on a Moving Date and Set a Budget</h2>
Once you have a place to live, decide on a moving date that gives you plenty of time to get packed and ready. Before you pack one box, work out your budget. For example, suppose you are moving from New York City to Baltimore for a job. Figure out the cost of going with an <a href="https://www.ozmoving.com/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">NYC moving company</a> and look at options based on your budget.
You want to budget your move even if your new company is moving you because moving expenses can escalate quickly. One issue with the delivery of your stuff, for example, and you could be looking at having to stay at a hotel for a few days. You will also have other expenses like meals and general travel costs, like gasoline.
The more you plan your move, the better off you will be once you get to your new location. 
<h2>Say Your Goodbyes</h2>
Try and plan your goodbyes, so they do not interfere with your move. If possible, you want to have at least one day between your last goodbye and you are going to your new home. 
<h2>Move</h2>
Whether moving one town over or across entire regions of the country, remember that no move is perfect, nor is it worth stressing too much over what you have no control over. 
<h2>Get Settled in the New Place</h2>
Make sure you give yourself a few days to acclimate to the new surroundings. If possible, give yourself a week. That will let you start to get settled before you have to start focusing on the new job. If a buffer is not possible, prioritize what is important to you in terms of making your new space your own. 
<h2>Final Thoughts</h2>
Some people can pick up and move to a new location and not break stride. Most people need a lot of planning, adjusting, and flexibility to make it all work. Follow this list of suggestions and your move will be significantly easier than if you push ahead and hope for the best. 
<hr>
 Are you currently looking for a new role or are interested in changing careers? Make sure to check out available job opportunities at <a href="https://www.careercircle.com/jobs" rel="follow">careercircle.com/jobs</a>.&nbsp; While you are there register and sign up to receive updates about jobs, events, and resources to take your career to the next level!&nbsp;

Moving for a new job? Discover tips to find the perfect place to live and make your move easier.

A Guide To Moving to a New Job Location | Getting Hired

A Guide To Moving to a New Job Location

Learn more about free job search tools, learning opportunities, and exclusive member events.

Discover CareerCircle

Access resources to advance your job search and career growth.

Tools & Training

Explore a wide range of job opportunities that match your skills and career goals.

Search Jobs

Create a professional resume that captures the attention of top employers with our easy-to-use tool.

Resume Builder

Prepare for your next interview with our expert tips and strategies.

Interview Prep

Discover in-depth profiles of leading employers to find your ideal workplace.

Search Companies

Develop in-demand skills with curated courses for today’s job market.

Courses

Access career resources and job postings anytime, anywhere with our app.

Mobile App

Source skilled, diverse talent and build your team.

Talent Acquisition

Access skilled, diverse talent ready to excel via our AI-driven platform, virtual events, and recruitment services.

CareerCircle TalentConnect

Transform your workforce and hiring practices with targeted DEI and disability inclusion trainings.

InclusiveU

Broaden your talent pool with dedicated support for professionals with disabilities.

Getting Hired Powered by CareerCircle

Mission aligned solutions supporting Non-Profit Organizations, Educational Institutions, and Local Workforce Development Boards.

Upskilling & Job Advocacy

Upskilling solutions designed to empower members with in-demand skills training and ongoing support for successful certificate completion.

CareerReady

Job advocacy solutions to connect job seekers to inclusive employers through dedicated recruiting support.

CareerAdvocacy

Learn how we connect underserved communities with careers and build skilled, diverse talent pipelines.

About CareerCircle

Discover answers to common questions and gain insights into our goals and services.

Reach out to us for inquiries, support, or to learn more about our mission and services.

Contact

Explore our blog for latest news and trends for job seekers and employers.

Blog

Access our virtual career fairs, job seeker workshops, and employer focused webinars.

Events

Discover real-life success stories of how we’re transforming lives and building skilled, diverse talent pipelines.

Case Studies

Get the latest news and updates on our mission, partnerships, and community impact.

Staff Writer

142 Articles

Mental Health in the Workplace: Why Support Is So Important

Tips for Landing a Remote Job

A Guide To Moving to a New Job Location