While safeguarding physical health and safety is an established employer obligation, the mental health and wellbeing of employees warrants equal attention.
A recent Peninsula survey of 79,000 small to medium-sized enterprises globally — including 30,500 respondents in Australia and New Zealand — revealed concerning trends:
- 51% of Australian employers have observed an increase in mental health concerns among staff.
- 72% do not provide dedicated mental health days.
- Only 39% have implemented an Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
- Merely one in six offer mental health leave beyond statutory requirements.
These findings highlight a clear gap between need and action. Proactive measures can strengthen workplace culture, reduce risk, and improve performance outcomes.
Five Key Initiatives for Strengthening Mental Health Support:
- Introduce an Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Provide employees and their families with confidential, employer-funded access to professional counselling. Early intervention helps address challenges before they escalate and supports sustained wellbeing.
- Offer Mental Health Days and Flexible Leave: Remove stigma by formally recognising mental health days. Allow the use of sick leave for wellbeing purposes and consider additional entitlements to mitigate burnout.
- Deliver Targeted Mental Health Training: Equip managers and supervisors to recognise early indicators of mental distress and respond appropriately. Training improves intervention outcomes and fosters an inclusive, supportive environment.
- Promote Transparent Communication: Encourage open dialogue about mental health, led by example from senior management. Visible commitment from leadership fosters trust and normalises help-seeking behaviour.
- Formalise Policies and Resource Access: Implement written policies addressing mental health, including anti-bullying measures. Provide centralised access to reputable services such as Lifeline, Beyond Blue, and Head to Health.
Addressing mental health is both a legal responsibility and a strategic advantage. Businesses that actively support employee wellbeing benefit from improved productivity, reduced absenteeism, and stronger staff retention.
