AUTHOR: Nicolette Liberty is Human Resources Officer, SAICA Enterprise Development and The Hope Factory
Ethics and mental wellness in the workplace
In today’s fast-paced and competitive work environment, mental wellness is becoming increasingly important. Organisations are beginning to recognise that employees’ mental health is more than just a personal issue; it is a critical factor that influences productivity, morale, and overall workplace culture. Integrating ethical practices that promote mental wellness is critical for creating a supportive and healthy workplace culture.
Understanding mental wellness
Mental wellness refers to a state of well-being in which individuals realise how one can cope with the normal stresses of life. It encompasses emotional, psychological, and social well-being, influencing how people think, feel, and act. In the workplace, mental wellness affects employee engagement, job satisfaction and performance. It is a very important attribute to manage as a person because it affects how we function in their day-to-day life experiences.
The ethical responsibility of organisations
Organisations have an ethical obligation to support employee mental wellness by creating a supportive culture and environment in which employees feel valued. They need to openly discuss mental health issues without stigma and have mechanism to support individuals affected by mental health. Organisations can set up counselling services and provide access to mental health resources like employee assistance programs. They can promote work/life balance to encourage flexible work arrangements and time off. Implementing fair policies for staff should be mandatory in organisations to protect employee rights and promote fair treatment.
The impact of mental wellness on organisational success
Promoting mental wellness benefits both employees and organisations and lead to −
- Increased productivity − Employees who feel mentally well are more engaged and productive. They are likely to contribute positively to team dynamics ad achieve better results.
- Healthy working environment − Supporting mental health can lead to lower absenteeism rates. Employees who feel supported are less likely to take leave for stress-related reasons.
- Enhanced employee retention − Promoting mental wellness increases loyalty and reduces turnover. Employees are more likely to remain with a company that values their well-being.
- Improved workplace culture − Prioritising employee well-being fosters a positive, safe, and valued work environment. This promotes better collaboration, creativity, and innovation.
Ethics and mental wellness in the workplace are inextricably linked concepts that play an important role in shaping organisational culture and success. Organisations that take proactive steps to support mental wellness not only meet their ethical obligations but also foster an environment that improves employee satisfaction and performance. As the conversation about mental health grows, organisations must embrace these principles and prioritise their employees’ well-being. This commitment leads to a healthier, more productive, and engaged workforce, which benefits both employees and the organisation.
