Mental health has quickly become one of the biggest topics regularly talked about all over the world. Day by day, people are becoming more and more aware of it, and many are taking the necessary steps towards healing and wellness. In Rwanda, going for therapy is becoming less known as “iby’abazungu” (for Europeans only), and is evidently becoming a sought-after service by the locals.
In the workplace as well, companies are starting to prioritize their employees’ mental health and are taking the necessary steps to ensure this, such as organizing mental health workshops, among others.
Why is that?
Since there’s a broader understanding about mental health and its importance at work, it is only sensible for companies in Rwanda to create wellness solutions to help their employees thrive. It is in their best interest. A boost in productivity is usually the result of a person’s well-being. Therefore, thriving employees would automatically translate to a thriving company – a win-win situation.
Yes, work can often times affect an employee’s mental health negatively, or employees could face personal life issues that disrupt their working schedules and productivity. But, that would only serve as another important reason to cultivate a healthy working environment.
How can you do that?
Intentionality is key. You can start by making it a point to consistently discuss mental health at work. It may not be easy at first if it’s something you or your employees are not familiar with. But with time, and if your employees feel safe enough, they will be encouraged to open up and share anything from their successes and failures, strengths and weaknesses, triumphs and challenges, insecurities, and much more.
The practice could be therapeutic for them. On one hand, it could help them process and healthily cope with unforeseen events, such as sudden changes in roles and responsibilities. On the other hand, it could help them flourish in their roles, manage stress, and increase their resilience. In the end, it will all make room for them to reach their highest potential.
This is exactly what every employer wants.
Make it a priority and invest in your employees’ mental health and well-being. They will thank you. To add to that, your company will yield even more outstanding results.