Diljeet Kaur Jandu , MACP candidate
In October 2022, U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy, MD, unveiled the inaugural Surgeon General’s Framework for Workplace Mental Health and Well-Being, representing a notable advancement in emphasizing psychological well-being in American work settings, potentially setting a precedent for neighboring countries such as Canada. The latest insights from the American Psychological Association’s 2023 Work in America Survey reaffirm the significant emphasis placed by workers themselves on the importance of mental well-being (APA, 2023).
The Surgeon General’s Five Workplace Essentials offer a foundational framework for fostering mental health and well-being in workplaces, highlighting key elements crucial for establishing a psychologically healthy setting. These essentials encompass Protection from harm, Connection and community, Work-life harmony, Mattering at work, and Opportunity for growth.
Protection from harm is paramount, given that nearly one in five workers have reported experiencing toxic work environments. The prevalence of toxic workplaces varies by industry, with client-facing and in-person roles more likely to be described as toxic. Employees in such environments are at a higher risk of fair or poor mental health and are inclined to seek new job opportunities.
Fostering connection and community is essential for promoting well-being, with most workers expressing satisfaction with their workplace relationships. Nevertheless, feelings of loneliness and isolation persist among a significant portion of the workforce, particularly in customer service roles. Creating a culture of belonging is crucial, as a notable percentage of workers feel disconnected at work, especially among black and Hispanic employees.
Toxic workplaces are associated with diminished psychological well-being
(APA,2023)
Addressing toxic workplaces and enhancing connection and community are pivotal steps in advancing mental health excellence in the workplace. By prioritizing these aspects, organizations can create environments that support the well-being and productivity of their employees.
Mattering at work emphasizes the importance of employees feeling valued and deriving meaning from their roles. Recognizing the psychological significance of meaningful work can lead to lower stress levels and increased job satisfaction among employees who feel valued and find purpose in their work.
In the post-pandemic landscape, the significance of recognition in the workplace cannot be overstated. As workers prioritize jobs where they can truly make a difference, feeling valued and acknowledged becomes paramount. Without a culture of respect and recognition, it is challenging for employees to feel that they matter.
(APA,2023)
Here are seven essential tips to foster a culture of recognition:
- Establish company norms
- provide a range of resources
- ensure a safe environment,
- embrace diversity of thought,
- help employees connect their contributions to the organization’s mission,
- publicly recognize achievements with specific praise, and
- consistently show appreciation for employees.
These efforts contribute to cultivating a workplace culture where every employee feels valued and appreciated. For instance, a simple gesture like acknowledging a work anniversary can have a significant impact. From a psychological standpoint, recognizing an individual amidst the hustle of a busy workplace can serve as a reminder of their significance in the broader context of work life.
Work life harmony requires finding equilibrium between employees and employers. Dr. Tammy Allen emphasizes setting clear boundaries and promoting detachment from work for recovery and well-being. Effective communication between employees and managers is essential to establish understanding and set expectations. In hybrid work settings, where interaction may be limited, having communication protocols in place is crucial to prevent misunderstandings and build trust in the long run.
Work-life harmony is a crucial aspect of employee satisfaction and well-being in the workplace. According to recent statistics, 84% of workers express satisfaction with their work schedules and 81% are content with the control they have over how, when, and where they work. Despite these positive numbers, approximately one-third of employees (32%) feel that they lack the flexibility needed to balance their work and personal lives effectively. Moreover, over a quarter (26%) believe that their employers do not respect their personal boundaries.
Opportunity for growth, highlighted by the Surgeon General’s framework, underscores the importance of continuous learning and advancement in the workplace. While many workers express satisfaction with their growth opportunities, there is room for improvement, particularly in providing educational resources and pathways for career progression.
Incorporating these insights into workplace practices can foster a positive and supportive environment where employees feel valued, have opportunities to grow, and ultimately thrive both professionally and personally.
For further insights check out the full report found in the below link.
References:
Adobe. (2023). Well-being at work. [Mobile app]. Retrieved from App Store
American Psychological Association. (2023). 2023 Work in America Survey: Workplaces as engines of psychological health and well-being. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/pubs/reports/work-in-america/2023-workplace-health-well-being