Managing workplace stress: Employers can help

Mental health issues among workers really came to the forefront during the COVID-19 pandemic. Before, employers may have had a “grin and bear it” attitude toward mental health. But today they’re encouraged to talk with workers and find solutions to stress and other workplace challenges.

OSHA’s Safe Workplace Good Headspace initiative highlights ways employers can make a difference:

• Acknowledge that workers may be experiencing “heightened levels of loneliness, isolation, uncertainty, grief and stress.” On top of that, they may be caring for children or older parents, or family members or loved ones who have medical or substance misuse conditions.
• Work with the employee to identify factors that may be making it a challenge for them to get their jobs done. Can adjustments be made? Make it clear to them: “We want to brainstorm with you to identify ideas for improving the support we provide our workers.”
• Reassure employees that you’re “open and receptive” to talking about their work stress by creating a trustworthy space. “We need you to be our ‘eyes and ears’ and alert us to problems that need correction.”
• Offer your workers coping and resiliency resources, workplace and leave flexibilities without penalty, and other supportive networks and services.