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26Jun

Mitch Wallis | Raising the bar for mental health in the workplace

By Sonia Goss | Blog, Podcast, Real Talk With Outperformers, Mitch Wallis, Mental Health | 26 Jun 2023 |

In the latest episode of Real Talk With Outperformers, we delve into the challenge that businesses face when it comes to prioritizing mental health in the workplace. The guest on this episode is Mitch Wallis, a renowned Mental Health Expert and Social Entrepreneur, who shares his insights on the need for businesses to adjust their work environments in order to foster genuine improvements in the mental well-being of their employees. Wallis emphasizes the responsibility of both individuals and organizations to create a conducive atmosphere where open conversations about mental health can take place, ultimately benefiting both the employees and the business as a whole.

Rethinking Current Mental Health Initiatives

One of the key messages that emerge from the conversation with Mitch Wallis is the need to reassess existing mental health initiatives in businesses. It's important to critically evaluate whether these initiatives are truly effective and, if not, determine the reasons behind their shortcomings. Wallis encourages organizations to adopt a holistic approach that goes beyond mere talk and takes into account the alignment of mental health, culture, business strategy, and operations. By reimagining mental health initiatives in this comprehensive manner, businesses can make a real difference in the well-being of their employees.

Embracing Mental Health as a Competitive Advantage

Wallis prompts businesses to consider the value of embracing mental health as a competitive advantage. Rather than perceiving it as a burden, organizations should recognize the immense potential mental well-being holds for driving business success and fostering a positive corporate culture. When mental health becomes a priority, it becomes a catalyst for growth, productivity, and employee satisfaction. By investing in mental health, businesses can create an environment where their employees can thrive, leading to improved performance and a significant edge over competitors.

The Importance of Action and Implementation

One significant point raised in the podcast episode is the tendency of initiatives to "slip" when they solely rely on raising awareness without a comprehensive system to support them. Wallis draws a parallel to advertisements on television that capture attention but fail to compel action. In order to bring about meaningful change, mental health initiatives must be supported by a system that reinforces the message and aligns it with the objectives of the organization. It is not enough to simply talk about mental health; action and implementation are crucial for tangible results.

Providing Honest and Constructive Feedback

A critical aspect of fostering a mentally healthy work environment is the need for honest and factual feedback. Wallis acknowledges that giving feedback can be challenging, as it may generate a sense of threat or a negative response. However, it is important to address these difficulties head-on and create a culture where feedback is seen as an opportunity for growth rather than an offensive act. By encouraging open and healthy conversations, businesses can empower their employees and address the core challenges that impede progress in mental health initiatives.

The Effort Required for Change

Finally, the conversation with Mitch Wallis emphasizes the effort required to bring about change in the realm of mental health in the workplace. Creating a culture that prioritizes mental well-being necessitates ongoing commitment and dedication. It is not a one-time task but an ongoing process that requires continuous investment of time, resources, and energy. Wallis urges businesses to recognize the importance of sustained effort in driving meaningful improvements and making a lasting impact on the mental health of their employees.

Mitch Wallis, a leading mental health expert and social entrepreneur, has shed light on the critical aspects businesses must consider when it comes to mental health in the workplace. By reevaluating existing initiatives, embracing mental health as a competitive advantage, focusing on action and implementation, providing constructive feedback, and acknowledging the effort required for change, organizations can raise the bar for mental health in their respective industries. It is time for businesses to recognize that fostering a mentally healthy work environment is not only the right thing to do, but it is also a strategic imperative that drives success, growth, and overall well-being.

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