It has become increasingly important for companies to prioritize the mental health of their employees as awareness has grown and resources have become more readily available. However, many smaller businesses struggle to implement programs that take care of their staff members’ well-being without putting the enterprise’s goals at risk.
On this episode of The Small Business Show, host Jim Fitzpatrick is joined by John Letter, CEO of Proem Behavioral Health. An experienced executive, Letter has led numerous teams, both large and small, to success and witnessed first-hand the benefits of prioritizing physical and mental health among employees. Proem Behavioral Health is a leading provider of solutions and services for the health sector, enabling care providers to improve their patient’s well-being. Now, Letter shares his insights into how company leaders can implement strategies to boost positivity and reduce stress, regardless of the size of their business.
Key Takeaways
1. Employers are living in a time of unprecedented mental health awareness. However, to improve the well-being of their staff, business owners must lead by example and prioritize their own healthcare as well.
2. Taking care of employee mental health is more than a kind gesture. It has been shown countless times to boost productivity and reduce stress in the workplace, especially for smaller organizations.
3. Should small businesses lack the resources to partner with a healthcare provider, their leadership teams should instead adopt strategies that directly improve the job experience. Allowing workers to take time for themselves, improving accommodations and showing empathy to those in need can be small but effective ways to improve well-being.
4. Small business owners should begin discussing mental health among their staff on an individual level before eventually transitioning to a company-wide conversation.
5. Honesty is crucial for business owners looking to engage with workers on mental health. Building an environment of trust will make it easier for employees to care for themselves and come forward when faced with difficulties.
"The more that we understand as business leaders the importance of finding a place for someone's physical and mental well-being, the better off we're going to be." — John Letter
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