In recent years, there has been more conversation around mental health in the workplace. Savvy business leaders have begun to understand that prioritizing their employees’ mental health is not just a nice thing to do; it can be a critical component to long-term success. In fact, investing in mental well-being has been proven to increase employee engagement, reduce absenteeism, boost productivity, and foster company loyalty.
As a human resources professional, I’ve seen how a company’s culture can impact an employee’s mental well-being. But over the past 16 months, I’ve also experienced it firsthand. In the aftermath of the national tragedy of October 7 and Israel’s ongoing multi-front war, everyone here is dealing with mental health challenges on one level or another. The harsh reality of red alerts and rocket attacks, fallen soldiers and funerals, displaced people and hostages, has led to a significant uptick in anxiety, depression, PTSD, and—at the very least—difficulty concentrating.
Here are some guidelines to fostering a mentally healthy work environment. These steps have proven effective at Gova10.
1. Create a culture that values open communication
A supportive and open communication culture is the foundation of a mentally healthy workplace. Employees should feel comfortable talking about their challenges, whether personal or professional, without fear of judgment or stigma. Active listening and showing empathy are the first steps when employees share their concerns.
It’s also important to regularly encourage open dialogue through check-ins, surveys, or informal discussions, so employees know their mental health is a priority. This approach not only helps identify potential issues early, but also builds trust between management and staff. When employees feel safe to express themselves, they’re more likely to engage with solutions, seek help when needed, and experience reduced stress.
2. Promote healthy work habits
Striking a healthy balance between work and personal life is something we all need. Managers should encourage time off and regular breaks, giving employees the chance to recharge. When we’re well-rested and mentally refreshed, we become far more creative, productive, and engaged. This balance lays the groundwork for a thriving workplace.
Staying aligned on workloads and expectations is also key. By setting clear, achievable goals, you empower employees to stay focused while preserving their mental well-being.
3. Check-in regularly
It’s easy to assume that once an employee appears to be doing well, there’s no need for further follow-up. However, consistent check-ins can go a long way toward reinforcing support. These discussions show employees that you care about their well-being beyond performance metrics.
During challenging periods, it’s important to increase the frequency of these check-ins. A quick conversation—asking how they’re doing or whether they need any extra resources—can make a significant difference. Your goal should be to ensure that employees don’t feel like they’re facing their challenges alone and that they have a strong support system in place.
4. Offer practical accommodations during tough times
When employees share personal challenges, offering practical support can make a big difference. This could mean offering flexible working hours, temporarily adjusting their workload, or making sure they have access to additional resources like counseling services.
We must remain sensitive and responsive to the unique needs of each employee. When someone is going through a tough time, they’re often juggling both emotional and professional responsibilities. By providing tangible support, we help lighten their load and create the space they need to heal and return to productivity.
On a Personal Note
I believe these four steps, implemented long before the current conflict in Israel, have helped our team get through these difficult days and have kept our business thriving. This has been my professional and personal experience. With a military reservist husband who spent more than 280 days away from home this last year and 4 young children, I am extremely grateful for the supportive and compassionate culture and people of Gova10. This environment allowed me to continue to be productive under very challenging circumstances.
Ultimately, supporting mental health in the workplace isn’t just about implementing policies; it’s about creating a culture of care, empathy, and trust. When employees feel safe and supported, the entire team benefits from increased engagement, productivity, and loyalty. Let’s continue to build workplaces where mental health is both a business priority and a shared, human value.
