The workplace, once a mere space for professional endeavours, has evolved into a complex ecosystem where mental health, safety, and inclusivity are paramount. Smita Shetty Kapoor, CEO and Co-founder of Kelp, a leading provider of workplace safety and inclusivity solutions, brings over two decades of corporate experience to her role. Under her visionary leadership, Kelp has pioneered innovative approaches to addressing sexual harassment and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace. The company has garnered recognition for its contributions to creating safer and more respectful work environments. In this article, Kapoor delves into the critical importance of prioritizing mental health and PoSH compliance in today's workplaces. She explores the challenges faced by organizations in addressing these issues and provides practical steps to build a resilient workforce that fosters employee well-being and productivity.
Read the full article to learn more about how to create a healthier and safer workplace.
Building a Resilient Workforce: Strengthening Mental Health and PoSH Support Systems in the Workplace
The adage "A healthy employee is a productive employee" holds undeniable truth, yet it warrants expansion: "A healthy employee is a productive employee, fostering a productive workplace." When we address employee health, we must consider not only physical well-being but also mental health—a critical aspect that remains largely overlooked in many organizations. Despite growing awareness, mental health often takes a backseat, with many still underestimating its impact on productivity. How can we expect employees to thrive in their roles if they are not mentally engaged and active?
For any organization aiming to cultivate a resilient and high-performing workforce, prioritizing mental health is essential. In addition, compliance with regulations such as the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (PoSH) Act must also be a focus. These initiatives—promoting mental well-being and ensuring a safe, respectful workplace—are not mere checkboxes; they are foundational to fostering an empowered and productive workforce that can drive organizational success.
The Importance of Mental Health at Workplace?
In 2022, it was reported that about 15% of working-age adults worldwide experience mental health disorders; a statistic that underscores an ongoing issue that remains under-addressed in many organizations. Mental health, though essential, often falls by the wayside amid the daily demands of work. Stress from tight deadlines, high-stakes meetings, presentations, or the pressure to close a deal can build mental strain, ultimately impacting the overall well-being and productivity of employees.
Practical Steps for Supporting Mental Health in the Workplace:
Employee Assistance Programs (EAP): Providing professional counseling or support services can help employees manage work-related stress, easing mental pressures and creating a healthier work environment.
Flexible Work Arrangements: The shift to hybrid work models post-pandemic has allowed employees the flexibility to work from home, reducing stress while maintaining productivity. This balance between remote work and in-person collaboration fosters well-being and teamwork.
Regular Check-ins: Leadership should encourage informal check-ins with colleagues and subordinates, fostering a culture of care where employees feel supported.
Workshops and Training: Conducting regular mental health workshops can raise awareness among staff, equipping them with the tools to manage stress and emotional well-being.
Organizations that actively prioritize these initiatives should be celebrated for their forward-thinking approach to mental health, which not only supports employees but enhances overall productivity.
Building a Safe Workplace with PoSH Compliance
While focusing on mental health is critical, ensuring a safe work environment is equally vital. Companies must protect employees from sexual harassment by adhering to the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (PoSH) Act of 2013. Under this law, organizations are mandated to establish an Internal Committee (IC) that is responsible for investigating and addressing complaints.
Key Aspects of PoSH Compliance:
- Internal Committee (IC): The IC handles sexual harassment complaints and ensures employees receive protection and justice.
- Awareness Campaigns: Regular campaigns help employees understand PoSH policies and encourage proactive compliance.
- Encourage Reporting: A culture that empowers employees to report harassment without fear is essential for maintaining a safe work environment.
What are the Challenges to Mental Health at Work?
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), depression and anxiety lead to the loss of an estimated 12 billion workdays annually, costing the global economy nearly $1 trillion in productivity. Despite growing awareness, workplace mental health remains a significant challenge. Factors like inadequate skill training, inflexible work hours, or toxic work culture often exacerbate psychological risk.
Excessive workload: Earlier this year,a young woman working at one of largest consulting firms passed away at a very young age due to excessive work pressure and stress. Reports claim that workloads and extended work hours took a toll on her health leading to her untimely death. Excessive work pressure and high stress environments can lead to burnout and anxiety among employees which can severely affect their mental health.
Unsafe and stressful working conditions: If your work place surrounding makes you feel uncomfortable and unsafe then you never entirely focus on your work leading to stress and instability.
Cultural issues: Discrimination based on an employee’s identity and lack of inclusivity can negatively impact mental health.
Career Uncertainties: Insecurity regarding one’s job, inadequate pay checks or lack of career growth can raise the stress bar among the employee.
Organizations have a unique opportunity to create thriving, productive work environments by prioritizing mental health and PoSH (Prevention of Sexual Harassment) support systems. Investing in these areas not only enhances productivity but also fosters a positive, inclusive culture that builds trust and improves the organization's reputation. To create a truly resilient workforce, businesses can take several proactive steps:
Promoting Mental Wellness: Offering training and resources to help employees manage emotional and mental well-being can be empowering. Encouraging open dialogue and raising mental health literacy ensures that employees feel comfortable seeking support when needed.
Supporting Employees with Health Conditions: Providing flexible work hours, adjusted workloads, and access to clinical support helps employees manage their mental / physical health more effectively. When employees feel valued and understood, they are more likely to contribute positively to the workplace and thrive in their roles.
Strengthening PoSH Compliance: Regularly conductPoSH awareness programs to educate employees on how to recognize, prevent, and report sexual harassment. Reinforce zero-tolerance policies to foster a culture of respect.
Establishing an Internal Committee for redressal of PoSH Complaints: It is essential to form an Internal Committee that comprises knowledgeable, trained, and experienced members. The committee should be equipped to handle complaints with fairness, while maintaining the highest levels of confidentiality and transparency. Ensuring sensitivity to the issue at hand is crucial, as is the ability to approach cases impartially, safeguarding the integrity of the process and fostering trust among employees. A well-functioning IC committee contributes to a culture of safety, respect, and accountability within the organization
Building a resilient workforce that integrates mental health support systems alongside PoSH frameworks is not an easy task, yet it is essential for today’s organizations. Mental health challenges, workplace harassment, and the need for a respectful environment all affect employee well-being and productivity. Addressing these areas head-on is no longer optional; it is a critical business imperative. While implementing such systems may present challenges, it is the need of the hour. Organizations that prioritize both mental health and a harassment-free workplace not only build trust but also ensure that their workforce is empowered, productive, and equipped to thrive in the long run.
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